Tauranga City Libraries is gearing up for another blockbuster season of reading and summer fun, with its Kia Kaha te Pānui – Summer Reading Challenge.

Kia Kaha te Pānui remained one of Tauranga’s most loved and well-supported library programmes.

Last summer, 1768 children and teens took part – representing every school in Tauranga, 87 homeschoolers, and 135 out-of-region holidaymakers from places like Auckland, Rotorua, and Hamilton.

With 3685 total check-ins, library staff and volunteers were kept busy supporting young readers, while 1830 children joined in the various summer activity sessions – an average of 25 participants per session.

“The interest just keeps growing,” Te Ao Mārama – Tauranga City Libraries youth programme team lead Lauren James said.

“We’ve worked hard to make the challenge easy for everyone to join. Opening it up to preschoolers a few summers ago was a game-changer – last year 254 preschoolers took part, including 13 babies younger than one! Families really love getting all their kids involved together.”

While the programme has expanded over the years, the beloved essentials remain.

“Children earn certificates and entries into draws for fantastic prizes – everything from robots to shopping sprees,” Jones said.

“Everyone who checks in for the first time also gets a swimming pool pass, and those aged 11 and up are entered into prize draws with a more grown-up vibe. But honestly, the best part is hearing kids talk about the stories they’ve read. It’s a real highlight for our team.”

Jones emphasised that check-ins were enjoyable, not evaluative.

“This isn’t a test. Any reading over the long summer break is a huge win. We want to help prevent summer reading slumps, yes – but more importantly, we want to spark joy. If a child reads at all, or is read to by a family member, that’s success.”

Across Tauranga’s four community libraries, families will also be able to drop into 66 free holiday activities throughout the summer – perfect for whānau looking for a creative indoor break from the sun (or the occasional spot of rain).