Things to do this Mother's Day

Unique Experiences

Celebrate Mother's Day with a splash at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium, where unique experiences await at every corner. And it’s not just SEA LIFE that offer a unique day out with Mum. Auckland is a vibrant city with a plethora of amazing destinations and experiences to make Mother’s Day that much more incredible. This special day is the perfect opportunity to show appreciation for the remarkable women in our lives, offering them adventures that go beyond the traditional bouquet of flowers or box of chocolates.

Get a coffee and enjoy nature 

Begin your Mother's Day adventure with a visit to the Antarctic Ice Adventure at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's. Watch the playful antics of King and Gentoo Penguins in an environment that mimics their natural habitat. Then, dive into the Sea Cave Adventure, where the underwater world captivates with its colourful fish and coral. It's a perfect blend of coffee-like comfort in the chill of an Antarctic experience.

 

Enjoy the Art

Immerse yourself in Auckland's rich cultural tapestry by visiting renowned art institutions like the Auckland Art Gallery or the Maritime Museum. Alternatively,  SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s offers Creature Feeds & Talks, blending natural history with artistic presentation. It's an artful exploration of the world beneath the waves and beyond.

Shopping with Mum

Auckland's vibrant market scene, from La Cigale French Markets to Catalina Bay Farmers’ Market and Te Atatu Night Markets, is a solo traveller's delight. Friendly faces and a warm Kiwi atmosphere await, along with a plethora of stalls offering local produce and homemade treasures. Exploring these markets is a leisurely way to spend an afternoon, discovering the local flavours and finding perfect gifts for your mum.

 

Whale and Dolphin Watching

For those seeking adventure, Mother's Day presents an excellent opportunity to embark on a whale and dolphin watching cruise. Depart from the nearby marina and explore the Hauraki Gulf, a playground for marine life. These eco-friendly cruises offer an exciting chance to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, guided by experts who share their knowledge of behaviour and conservation. It's an unforgettable experience that deeply connects you with the marine ecosystem and its inhabitants.

Enjoy unique walk with Mum

Dare to walk among sharks in the iconic shark tunnel at Kelly Tarlton's. Featuring New Zealand's most extensive collection of sharks, shipwreck artefacts, and Maori Pacifica decorations, it's an immersive experience not to be missed. The Shark Cage Snorkel offers a thrilling encounter with School and Broadnose Sevengill Sharks, massive stingrays, and hundreds of sea creatures — no diving experience required. It's an adrenaline-pumping journey into the deep.

Take Mum to a High Tea or Special Lunch

Celebrate Mother's Day with a culinary adventure that goes beyond the ordinary. Auckland's vibrant food scene offers an array of options that cater to all tastes and preferences.

 

Bellini at Hilton Auckland, CBD 

Nestled within the iconic Hilton Auckland, Bellini offers a High Tea experience that is as luxurious as its surroundings. With panoramic views of the Waitemata Harbour, Bellini elevates the High Tea tradition to new heights. Guests can indulge in a carefully curated selection of gourmet sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and delicate pastries, each crafted to perfection by the hotel’s skilled chefs. The tea selection is equally impressive, featuring a range of classic blends and exotic infusions to suit every palate. The elegant ambience, combined with impeccable service, makes Bellini an ideal setting for making Mother's Day special and memorable.

 

Bluebell's High Tea, CBD 

For those seeking a charming and intimate High Tea experience, Bluebell's High Tea in Auckland's CBD is a hidden gem. Known for its quaint décor and warm, welcoming atmosphere, Bluebell's offers a more personalised High Tea service. Each table is treated to a lavish spread of artisan sandwiches, scones served with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of handcrafted sweets that look almost too good to eat. 

 

The tea selection includes both traditional favourites and unique blends, carefully chosen to complement the menu. Bluebell's attention to detail and commitment to quality make it a perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely afternoon spoiling your mum.

 

Mission Bay Beachside Dining

 

Consider booking a table at one of the waterfront restaurants for a meal with a view, or surprise her with a picnic at one of Auckland's picturesque parks.

 

Just a stone's throw from SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium, the Mission Bay Fountain lights up the night, creating a magical atmosphere for evening strolls along the beach. The area is alive with cafes and eateries, offering delightful spots to enjoy a meal or indulge in refreshing ice cream while soaking in the view. It's a serene escape into Auckland's coastal charm, 

 

It's a great way to make the day memorable, combining delicious food with the beauty of Auckland's landscape.

 

Taking your mum to a High Tea is a wonderful way to spend quality time together, indulging in the finer things in life. Whether you choose the luxurious setting of Bellini at the Hilton or the cosy charm of Bluebell's High Tea, the experience will surely be a highlight of her Mother's Day. It's an opportunity to slow down, savour the moment, and show your mum how much she means to you in a setting as special as she is.

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