PARENTS are always tested in school holidays with their kids seeking something to do.

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In Port Stephens there is plenty to occupy school children of all ages and some of the options are even free.

Taking the time to explore the local landscape and parks is always a great way to spend time enjoying fair weather.

The NOTA’s top parks for kids are Boomerang Park at Raymond Terrace, Neill Carroll Park at Fly Point and Robinson Reserve.

All of these parks have skate parks that suit riders of various skill levels.

There’s plenty of history to absorb in and around Raymond Terrace as well as at Tomaree Headland where you can walk to the point and see the torpedo tubes and gun emplacements from WWII.

Consider walking up to the Top of Tomaree Headland to take in the view or for those feeling less active drive up to the top of Lilly Hill and enjoy the view out to the Barrington’s and up the coast to Seal Rocks.

Children under 16 don’t need a fishing licence to bring home diner and there are plenty of spots to fish from the shore, although it is a good idea to check the Marine Park zones before dropping a line.

Some favourite spots are the Nelson Bay and Anchorage break walls, Shoal Bay, and Stockton Beach.

Younger kids may even enjoy catching nippers for bait.

Local mum Mel Turner told News Of The Area, “I really enjoy the fish that Harry catches and now he even cooks them for dinner too.”

For those with a bigger budget check out sandboarding on the dunes, you can hire boards at the Anna Bay servo, takin in a dolphin watching cruise, or catch the ferry over to tea gardens and enjoy the trip.

There’s free entertainment at Murray’s Brewery and plenty of space for the kids to run around while you enjoy a brew or two.

For those into sport kids can spend hours in the cricket nets perfecting their skills.

Wet days can be more challenging and hearing “I’m bored” is not on any parents hit parade.

NOTA recommends checking out your local library; they have board games and other activities as well as books, ten pin bowling, indoor playgrounds and even checking out what’s on at the flicks on these days.

For those interested in being sustainable you can stop out at the Salamander Bay Recycle Centre and pick up a DIY project there.

Kids can create something from someone else’s waste.

By Marian SAMPSON