Need something to do but want to stay under cover?
From film clubs to rock climbing, there are heaps of fun indoor activities to enjoy across Auckland, no matter the weather.
1. Hit the roller
ActivZone in Glenfield has a giant roller skating rink complete with disco lighting and funky music. This is the go-to spot for a retro hang out with plenty of laughs. The centre is currently undergoing renovations, but will reopen on 24 April. Open skate sessions cost $6.20 for children up to age 14, and $7.60 for anyone older. You can also hire rollerblades and skates for $4.30.
Take a look at ActivZone's Facebook page for the latest updates on their opening times.
2. Catch a classic movie
The Leys Institute Little Library’s film club screens some of the greatest films of the 20th-Century. Travel back to past decades and soak up the old Hollywood glamour of the 1960s and beyond. The Little Leys Classic Film Club events take place at the Grey Lynn Library Hall.
3. Marvel at maunga
Learn about the geological and cultural history of Auckland’s maunga at Te Ipu Kōrero o Maungawhau located at Maungawhau / Mount Eden. This visitor centre is an immersive experience sharing the stories of Tāmaki Makaurau’s volcanic cones from a te ao Māori perspective.
4. Get creative
Makerspaces are creative spaces in libraries around Auckland. Book a sewing machine to learn a new skill or repair old clothes, or unleash your creativity on a 3D printer. It’s free to use the sewing machines, but at some Makerspaces you’ll need to book a time slot in advance. There’s a small charge to cover the cost of materials for 3D printing.
Take a look at the Auckland Council Libraries website for more details.
5. Admire art exhibitions
The Wallace Arts Centre is housed within the historic Pah Homestead building, located in Hillsborough’s Monte Cecilia Park. Inside, you’ll find contemporary art exhibitions curated from the Wallace Arts Trust Collection. There’s also a cafe onsite if you get a bit peckish. Opening hours are Tuesday to Friday from 9am to 3pm, or weekends from 8am to 5pm, with entrance by koha (donation).
6. Crack into the history of ceramics
Te Toi Uku – Crown Lynn & Clayworks Museum is a small, free-to-enter museum in New Lynn and houses examples of ceramics made by Crown Lynn from the 1940s to the 1980s. You can also see the machinery that produced the historic ceramics.
7. Shoot some hoops
The giant basketball stadium at the Allan Brewster Leisure Centre in Papatoetoe is the perfect place to bounce a ball around. Practise your slam dunks or challenge friends to a free-throw competition. It only costs $5.50 per session – make sure to bring your own ball though.
Availability is dependent on other bookings, and space at the centre isn't always during school holidays due to holiday programmes. Check with the centre by phone (09 262 5965) or email allanbrewsterleisure@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
8. Rock out
Get a healthy rush of adrenaline and discover muscles you never knew you had when you tackle the rock climbing walls at the Birkenhead Pool and Leisure Centre.
If you’re new to climbing, instructors will give you free coaching. Bouldering is $9.80 and rock climbing $17.80 for children, $18.80 for students and $21.20 for adults (harnesses are included in the price).
