12 Auckland rainy day activities

When the unpredictable weather suddenly disappoints with a few showers, don’t postpone your family day out just yet. Embrace the rain…there’s still plenty to do. Here are our top rainy day activities. 

1. Kelly Tarltons

Where? 23 Tamaki Dr, Orakei, AucklandIf the outdoors are looking gloomy and wet, head underground for an underwater adventure at Kelly Tarltons SEA LIFE Aquarium. Encounter and experience the world of penguins, stingray, sharks and the different fishes representing the best of the Southern Ocean – rain or shine.

2. Auckland Art Gallery

Where? Wellesley St E, Auckland, 1010

When the rain pours and you have to opt for plan B – why not get creative? The Auckland Art Gallery has free entry except for some exhibitions. Wander around the gallery, but then don’t forget to go to the Creative Learning Centre where the kids can use all the inspiration from around the gallery and channel it into their own art.

3. Auckland Museum

Where? The Auckland Domain, Parnell, Auckland

Home to loads of different exhibitions that the kids will love, add food for thought, while staying dry, at the Auckland Museum. Check out the Weird and Wonderful section where they can explore in a little more hands-on way! (The Auckland Museum is free for Auckland ratepayers, so don’t forget to take something with your address on it to prove you live in Auckland.)

4. MetroLanes

Where? Upper, 291 Queen Street, Auckland

If your family trip into town has gone sour with drizzly weather, take cover at MetroLanez on Queen St for some hearty pins and bowls. Alongside their full-sized bowling lanes, they offer four mini lanes for all kiddos and adults to enjoy. Also, situated inside is the Odyssey Sensory Maze – weave through mazes and adventure through a variety of sensory effects. The kids (and you) are sure to be uh-maze-d!

5. Stardome  Observatory

Where? 670 Manukau Rd, Epsom, Auckland

Rainy weather calls for opportunity – take it and turn the kids into mini astronomers at Stardome. Head along at night to observe the stars or go during the day to catch the planetarium show ‘We Are Stars’. This is an immersive show that takes you on an adventure through time and space to discover our awesome cosmic origins.

6. Wednesdays at Miann

Where?  57 Fort St, CBD, Auckland 

Waffles anyone? Beat the blues with a heart-warming indoor classic. Miann’s winter menu now offers waffles served with their famous gelato ice creams and toppings. They offer a wider waffle menu every Waffle Wednesday, until August 29.

7. Catch a movie

Head to your nearest cinema and ready the popcorn. A good, fun film is a great way to keep the kids entertained on any rainy day. Alternatively, fluff up some pillows at home, lay out the blankets, and flick on some family-friendly films – don’t forget the hot chocolate! 

8. Puddles for Poohsticks!

Lovers of the classic kids’ book Winnie-the-Pooh will remember the fun game of Poohsticks, or Boat Races. Simply select a bunch of sticks (flower petals work too), and float them across a puddle, or under a bridge. The first object to the other side of the puddle/bridge wins. Grab a rain jacket with some pockets and you’re good to go. Mindfulness for the outdoors at it’s best.

9. Visit the library

Make books the centre of today’s excitement by taking the kids on a library trip! They’ll enjoy the books and you’ll enjoy the quiet!

10. Kids’ Yoga

Follow any kids’ yoga video on YouTube to get the kids into something new. It may even become a habit if they like it! Plus, you all get some peace and tranquility.

11. Rearrange the bedroom

Moving furniture around can really liven up your kid’s living space and get them excited for something ‘new’. Adding something small to the room when they’re done arranging, like a small fake plant or even a lava lamp, will really encourage them.

12. Indoor picnic

Get a blanket and some snacks, sandwiches and drinks. It’s an easy way to distract from the lousy weather and get the kids eating lunch. Plus, toys make polite picnic guests.

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