Lockdowns can be tough, especially for those who are unwell, missing loved ones or feeling stressed.
One step we can take that might help smooth the journey is to dive into something new, whether we're picking up a new language, researching our next project online, or working through our wishlist of books and films.
Take a look at our ideas below to get you started on a productive and relaxing time during lockdown:
Auckland Council Libraries
All Auckland Council libraries are open from Wednesday 17 November, with some COVID-19 restrictions and precautions in place, making them a great place to reconnect with the books, learning and resources you've missed over lockdown.
Alongside book browsing, Aucklanders will be able to access public computers, printing and Wi-Fi. Integrated customer services will be available too. Research centres will not be staffed, but Aucklanders can get the research help they need by enquiring online.
All library locations across the region are also offering a contactless click and collect service at the front door. This is a great opportunity to get a new set of books or items for the kids to enjoy. Order online today and select the library to collect from. Once the items are ready, you will be notified so you can head down to pick the items up.
Additionally, there are thousands of eBooks and eAudiobooks to explore through the digital collections.
Learn something new
Pick up a new hobby or skill during lockdown, dust off your tools with a new project, learn a language, or find endless inspiration with our free online resources from Auckland Council. From ebooks and magazines to gardening tips and tutorial videos, we've provided the tools you need to make your lockdown a productive one.
Visit our reopened museums and galleries
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, Auckland Zoo and New Zealand Maritime Museum are looking forward to welcoming visitors back after the move to Alert Level 3 - Step 2.
The venues are taking a phased approach to reopening over the coming week to ensure they can open safely and responsibly. Please check each venue’s website for opening details.
Retrain and develop your skills
Being at home can be a great opportunity for some of us to retrain and expand our skills - getting ready for new opportunities when lockdown lifts and the chance to wow colleagues with new-found expertise.
Unwind with free ebooks and films
Beat the stress and boredom of lockdown with Auckland Council Libraries' online collections of ebooks, films, magazines and audiobooks.
Available online, for free, to all Aucklanders, our online services offer hundreds of films, documentaries, ebooks, audiobooks and magazines.
Take a virtual tour
For those of us who love wandering through a museum or art gallery, lockdowns can be tough as the doors are shut, and we can’t explore the incredible collections inside. That is until now. Both Auckland War Memorial Museum and the Auckland Art Gallery Toi O Tāmaki offer virtual tours to enjoy from the comfort of home.
Research your family history
Ever wanted to know what your heritage is? Discover how your family or whakapapa got to be in Tāmaki Makaurau? Everyone has a story to tell, and our individual family histories are full of incredible stories.
Thankfully, Auckland's libraries and museums have many great resources available online for free to help you do just that.
Learn a language at home
We are never too old to learn a language and it is great for keeping the mind stimulated and engaged. It is also something we can do at home without heading into a class.
Now is a great time to utilise the opportunities available through Auckland Council, so have a look at how you can expand your language skills.
