auckland-domain-wintergardens

Author: Baylee White Blog

When it’s drizzly and miserable outside, it’s almost too easy to stay inside or hide out in your hostel for the day but fear not! We’re here to make sure your visit to Auckland is the best no matter what the weather.

1. Auckland War Memorial Museum

The Auckland War Memorial Museum is sure to keep you occupied for an entire day! The museum hosts various exhibitions and events throughout the year, as well as housing permanent collections that focus on New Zealand history, natural history and military history. Open daily from 10am-5pm, delve into Maori history, learn about our native wildlife and New Zealand’s involvement in warfare. Only a 30-minute walk or 10 minute drive from the CBD, a Link or Explorer bus ride away, the Auckland War Memorial Museum is a must visit!

2. Domain Wintergardens

Opened in 1913, the Domain Wintergardens are a short walk from the Auckland War Memorial Museum and are hidden within the Auckland Domain. Two Victorian style glasshouses face out onto the courtyard, with one glasshouse specialising in lush tropical plants, while the second houses more temperate plants that transform throughout the seasons. Part of the New Zealand Gardens Trust with free admission for all visitors, the Wintergardens are arguably the most instagrammable spot on this list! 

3. Spookers

If you’re a fan of frights, horror movies or a laugh with some friends or your travel buddies, Spookers is awesome rain or shine! Set in a former psychiatric hospital in Karaka, Spookers is thought to be the number one haunted spot in the country. Head along on Friday and Saturday nights between 8pm-10pm and choose between the R16 adult attractions; The Woods, Haunted House or Disturbia and prepared to be hilariously scared by the incredibly talented actors! Alternatively, if you are in Auckland over the summer months, do check out the outdoor maze at Spookers for some extra scary frights under the stars. 

4. Jump

An indoor trampoline park with three locations across Auckland, Jump will keep you entertained for hours on a rainy day! Basically an adult’s playground, the spring-loaded urban trampolines will have you jumping, backflipping, and jousting with your mates all afternoon long. With weekday specials and trampoline socks available to purchase, you’ll be giggling while working up a sweat (can't get much better than that right?)

5. Paintvine

Looking for a relaxing way to spend a chilly Wednesday night? Head down to Paintvine at the Rec Bar in Britomart to channel your inner painter and have a wine with your mates! With a Paintvine artist to guide you through the basics of painting and your first drink of the night free, there’s really no reason to not give it a go. Strictly R18 with all the painting materials you need provided, just bring your artistic flair!

6. Aotea Square Ice Rink

A European winter wonderland has been bought to Auckland! Each year, an ice rink is installed in the square temporarily so try your hand at skating or watch the pro’s do it from a comfy seat up at the Ice Bar! Head next door to the Pou Rama lights at the Matariki Festival and prepare for a magical and mesmerizing night! 

7. head to the rugby

Rugby's a winter sport and there's nothing quite like throwing on the layers and a beanie, grabbing some hot chips and a beer and seeing a live game! The atmosphere, the electricity ... I can hear the crowds cheering! If you're lucky enough to be in town for an All Blacks home game (our national team), definitely try to grab some tickets online! Alternatively, head to one of the bars along the Viaduct and watch it on the big screen surrounded by loyal Kiwi fans who will be happy to explain the rules and what's happening if you're a rookie. Many regional and local teams also play games on the weekend throughout the winter at reasonable rates. 

8. Auckland Art Gallery

Home to New Zealand’s largest collection of national and international art pieces, the Auckland Art Gallery was founded in 1888 and was awarded World Building of the Year at the World Architecture Festival. The gallery brings together the best of our country’s heritage and culture, with a wide variety of permanent and exhibition pieces. With an onsite cafe, it's easy to while away the whole day here and is a great hide out from the rain!

Plan your trip to Auckland! Book JUCY Snooze today!