Discover the beauty of Auckland this winter! From exploring the nation’s premium wines to sourcing the best artisan foods at a food show, there’s something for everyone. Our local team has handpicked the best activities to do in Auckland this winter season. From reading the star constellations to unwinding in a geothermally heated hot spring, check out our selection below.
EVENTS
1. Matariki Festival
Experience the magic of the Matariki Festival in Auckland as we celebrate the beginning of the Māori new year. From vibrant street food markets and electrifying live performances to mesmerizing light festivals and captivating stargazing sessions, the festival draws thousands of visitors each year. Dive into Māori art workshops, indulge in film screenings, and witness exhilarating haka competitions as you revel in the unique Māori heritage and culture.
Date: 15 – 28 June 2024
Address: TBC (Visit website for details)
Website: https://www.matarikifestival.org.nz/
2. Auckland Food Show
Practically a paradise for foodies, The Food Show is New Zealand’s largest culinary extravaganza stretching across Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. At this three-day food show, explore aisles brimming with tantalizing flavours, featuring show-stopping specials and fresh, homegrown produce you won’t want to miss.
Get inspired with live cooking demonstrations by your favourite celebrity chefs sharing their hottest recipes and insider tips, and join other food enthusiasts as you indulge in this unmissable event for all food lovers.
Date: 25 – 28 July 2024
Address: Auckland Showgrounds, 217 Green Lane West, Epsom, Auckland 1051, New Zealand
Directions: 15 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport
Website: https://foodshow.co.nz/
3. Winetopia
Uncover some of Aotearoa’s finest wines at Winetopia, a heaven for food and wine lovers. Explore from a selection of New Zealand’s best wineries, offering everything from crisp Sauvignon Blancs to rich Pinot Noirs alongside an array of pop-up eateries selling the perfect wine pairing from cheeses to cold-cuts.
With crowd favourites like Mt Rosa Wines, Palliser and Mt Beautiful wines under one roof, the festival celebrates the richness and diversity of our vineyards in New Zealand. While you indulge in the wine tastings, don’t forget to check out the new Vivid Dining segment offering an experimental tasting experience to tickle your senses, as well as The Dream Room offering insights into the crafting of premium wines.
Date: 26 – 27 July 2024
Address: Viaduct Events Centre, 171 Halsey Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Directions: 25 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport
4. NZ International Film Festival
The NZ International Film Festival returns to Auckland this August, becoming the second stop out of the 10 cities nationwide. As the highlight of the New Zealand film calendar, this year’s festival promises to be nothing short of extraordinary under the guidance of Artistic Director Paolo Bertolin.
With a wealth of experience from prestigious film festivals like Cannes Directors’ Fortnight, Bertolin is set to curate an exceptional selection of global films to the local audience this year. On the festival’s agenda are a series of Q&A discussions and panels with directors and producers, as well as a few surprises for the film lovers, so don’t miss this opportunity to take part in the biggest film festival in Aotearoa!
Date: 7 – 18 August 2024
Address: The Civic, Hollywood Avondale and ASB Waterfront Theatre
Directions: 20 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport
5. Tones and I Concert
Singer of the world-famous “Dance Monkey” Tones and I will be making a triumphant return to Auckland this winter after more than three years. Following her support on P!nk’s recent stadium tour, the multi-ARIA award winner is set to dazzle audiences with a full headline show featuring new tracks from her new album, along with beloved hits like “Dance Monkey”, “Fly Away”, “Cloudy Day,” and “Never Seen The Rain.” Don’t miss your chance to catch her in Auckland this August!
Date: 28 August 2024
Address: Auckland Town Hall, Queen Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Directions: 30 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport
Website: https://www.aucklandlive.co.nz/show/tones-and-i#tickets-times
activities
6. Take a Stroll Around The Domain Wintergardens
Escape the winter chill and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Domain Wintergardens, nestled within the Auckland Domain. This botanical oasis boasts a stunning array of plants and flowers from around the globe, showcased within two magnificent Victorian-style glasshouses. Step inside these barrel-vaulted structures and get a glimpse of exotic tropical and temperate plant species that thrive year-round.
Dating back to as early as the 1900s, these gardens are not only a testament to the exquisite garden design from the past but also serve as a living museum of rare and spectacular plant species. Marvel at the renowned Amorphophallus Titanium, affectionately known as the corpse flower, and wander amidst a captivating collection of chrysanthemums. After exploring, unwind at the onsite cafe and savor a warm drink while basking in the serenity of this historic horticultural gem.
Address: Wintergarden Road, Parnell, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Directions: 30 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport
Website: https://www.gardens.org.nz/visit/auckland-domain-wintergardens
7. Visit The Auckland War Memorial Museum
This winter, dive into our rich history and culture at the Auckland War Memorial Museum, a cherished institution housed within one of New Zealand’s most iconic heritage buildings. Widely known as one of the best museums in the Southern Hemisphere, the museum boasts an amazing array of Maori and Pacific collections, offering profound insights into the origins and heritage of its people.
From ancient natural history displays to the extensive war memorial collection, the museum provides a comprehensive journey through time. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness rare Maori artefacts and experience daily cultural performances that bring the exhibits to life. At the end of your trip, unwind at the onsite restaurant and cafe, where you can savor a coffee or indulge in a delightful high tea while reflecting on the treasures you’ve encountered.
Address: Parnell, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Directions: 25 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport
Website: https://www.aucklandmuseum.com/
8. Savour Auckland’s Best Mulled Wines
Winter in Auckland calls for one thing: mulled wine. There’s no better way to warm up on a chilly evening than with a steaming mug of this spiced concoction. Head to Coco’s Cantina on Karangahape Road for a taste of their aromatic mulled wine, brewed with citrus and spices that perfectly complement their mouthwatering Italian cuisine.
Meanwhile, 46 & York in Parnell offers a cozy ambiance by the fireplace along with their delightful winter menu, making it the ideal spot to unwind with a glass of mulled wine. And for those touring around Mt Eden, The Garden Shed offers up great mulled wine where you can sip on this comforting beverage amidst their charming surroundings.
Coco’s Cantina
Address: 374 Karangahape Road, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Directions: 20 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport
Website: http://www.cocoscantina.co.nz/
46 & York
Address: 46 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland 1052, New Zealand
Directions: 20 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport
Website: http://46andyork.co.nz/
The Garden Shed
Address: 470 Mount Eden Road, Mount Eden, Auckland 1024, New Zealand
Directions: 15 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport
Website: http://www.thegardenshed.kiwi/
9. Stargaze at Stardome Observatory and Planetarium
With the skies darkening as early as 6pm on most winter evenings, there’s no better time to explore the cosmos than the winter period in Auckland. Delve into the mysteries of the night sky and discover the fascinating tales behind the prominent constellations at Stardome Observatory & Planetarium. Immerse yourself in state-of-the-art 360-degree dome planetarium shows led by live presenters, where you can recline in comfort and marvel at the celestial wonders above. A diverse selection of educational and entertaining films are also available, including sci-fi films for those who love a bit of adventure.
Still curious to know more? Join a tour led by expert astronomers to gain deeper astrology insights and don’t miss the chance for evening telescope viewings in the courtyard.
Address: 670 Manukau Road, Royal Oak, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
Directions: 15 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport
Website: https://www.stardome.org.nz/
10. Take A Warm Dip At Parakai Springs
Located just 35 minutes away from Auckland central is Parakai Springs, a geothermally heated hot spring making it the perfect spot for a weekend getaway or a quick dip to escape the winter cold. Enjoy the expansive open-air pool, complete with a gently sloping beach area perfect for little ones, and an indoor pool heated to a luxurious 40 degrees. Couples looking for some tranquility may also find their way to the adults-only pool or unwind in one of their private spas.
With spacious grounds and gas BBQs available for hire, the hot spring is the ideal location for a weekend family getaway. Whether you are looking for a quick dip in the pool or just a bit of family fun, head to the Parakai Springs for a day of fun and adventure.
Address: 150 Parkhurst Road, Parakai 0830, New Zealand
Directions: 50 min drive from Naumi Auckland Airport
Website: http://www.parakaisprings.co.nz/
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