Now that Auckland is at Alert Level 3 Step 2, many of our great facilities are providing some ways to give you, your friends and family something new and exciting to enjoy.
Whether you're tired of heading down to the local park every week or are missing your museum and gallery fix, there's now something on for everyone in Auckland.
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.
MOTAT
Auckland’s Museum of Transport and Technology opened on the first day of the move to step 2 and can have up to 100 people on-site at a time. With over 300,000 items highlighting Kiwi innovation and ingenuity, MOTAT is the best place to learn how life in Tāmaki Makaurau has changed with the development of different technologies while having fun.
Enjoy all that MOTAT can offer, but please note that to adhere to Alert Level protocols, some exhibitions are closed. Anyone visiting is asked to always wear a mask on-site, but with tickets at a reduced cost, this could be a great place to engage your young one’s mind. For more information about who MOTAT are operating safely at Step 2, head to the website.
Tāmaki Paenga Hira Auckland War Memorial Museum
The popular Auckland Museum reopens from Monday 15 November, and although interactives have been switched off and some exhibitions are closed, there is still plenty to enjoy, explore or learn. New galleries and a new photography display to take in. Worth taking in are Tāmaki Herenga Waka Stories of Auckland, SHELF:LIFE on the ground floor, the Imaginarium on the first floor, and our free Love & Loss exhibition on the second floor.
There is a 500-person maximum capacity but with so much to explore, it could feel like you have the museum all to yourself. Check out the museum website for further details and alert level protocols.
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki
Auckland Art Gallery is initially opening to members only from 15 November and then to the wider public from 17 November.
Take in the stunning crystal 10-metre waka outside before enjoying some incredible exhibitions including Manpower: Myths of Masculinity and Romancing the Collection, which pairs historical pieces with contemporary ones as a love letter to the city’s public art collection.
Auckland Zoo
Full of wonderful and colourful animals, the ever-popular Auckland Zoo is always a highlight for many children. Fans will be looking forward to seeing their favourites in person but it is important to remember that, currently, the zoo is only open for members with a confirmed booking slot.
Head to the website to book a slot if you have a membership. The general public will be able to return to the zoo later in the month.
