Things To Do In Auckland When It's Raining

Rain rain, go away… is not a likely story in Auckland, with our high rainfall rates. In winter, we average 18 rain days each month! So it pays to have some rainy day activities up your sleeve for you and the family. Here are some of the best!

 

Now Museum, Now You Don’t!

Auckland Museum is a trove of treasures for families hunting for things to do. The kids will get lost in their imaginations, with interactive exhibits of seismic proportions! You’ll appreciate the fascinating cultural displays and the fact that it’s warm and dry inside!

 

Winter Wonderland

Once you’ve explored the museum, pop next door to the Domain Wintergardens. Wander through the gorgeous greenhouses and watch the raindrops falling on the glass panels above. Play hide and seek, and spot the goddesses overlooking the ponds. It’s a serene experience for a grey day.

 

Read All About It

Reading on a rainy day is one of life’s great pleasures. But did you know that libraries also have DVDs, audiobooks and games? Seriously, it’s like going on the ultimate playdate! Look up your local library, or visit the ones in the city for something extra special.

 

Weta Weather

Luckily you won’t have to head into the wild weather to see the beautiful Waitakere Ranges. Just head west to the Arataki Visitors’ Centre! Discover intriguing wildlife displays, including our most iconic insect, the enormous Weta!

 

Rainforest

Head to the Auckland Botanic Gardens, and find the Potter Children’s Garden tucked away inside. Children can run through Maui’s magical maze, and meet Keri the kereru. There’s even a mini rainforest! Seems appropriate, given the weather!

 

Behind-The-Scenes Tour

Get exclusive access to back-of-house areas at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium. During your 25-minute tour, you'll see how everything works, learn about our filtration system and even feed your snapper, kahawai, trevally and king fishy friends. Check out our underwater tunnels from above, find out all about the animal quarantine area, and say hi to some of the temporary inhabitants. After the tour, keep exploring; your all-day aquarium admission is included.

 

Feline Fine

Cats hate water – which is why you won’t see any out in the rain. They’re all at the cat cafe in Queen Street! At the adorably named ‘Barista Cats,’ get your fix of caffeine and cat cuddles. It’s a purrfect place to take the kids on a wet afternoon.

 

Waterfalls Galore

Waterfalls look awesome when it rains! Take the kids to see some of our best, such as the Oakley Creek Falls, or the Mokoroa Falls. Karekare Falls are spectacular, plunging down the lush hillside. Rug up in winter woollies and a waterproof jacket, and you won’t even care if it’s raining!

 

Great Weather for Ducks

There’s a lot to see for free at Western Springs Park, with its freshwater lake. Throw some bread from the bridge, and the eels will swim over faster than you can say ‘come and get it!’ If the heavens should open, escape to one of the vintage trams which trundle around the park’s perimeter.