The coldest months of the year are upon us, and curling up on the couch to binge-watch a new series is an essential winter activity. And while it’s tempting to do just that on those cold and rainy days, getting outside and experiencing the winter weather is actually good for us. You don’t need to go full Arctic explorer and do a six-hour tramp (although feel free!) you can embrace the elements with the many short walks scattered across Auckland.
Keep moving
When the temperature drops below 10°C it can be tough to get out the door, but you will feel better for it. Even just a short, brisk walk around the block can be beneficial.
Discover walks that suit your location and ability by visiting the AKL Paths section on Auckland Council’s website. Tick the “walking” check box, then narrow down your search by area or features such as “wheelchair accessible” or “scenic”. Why not walk with a friend and take turns choosing different paths?
Blow away the cobwebs
The Dutch expression uitwaaien means “outblowing” but refers to walking in the wind, based on the idea that experiencing windy weather is a great way to reduce stress. One great spot in Auckland to practise uitwaaien and blow away the cobwebs is Musick Point Path, which treats you to stunning views of Rangitoto, Motukorea / Browns, Motuihe and Waiheke islands.
Get positive with negative ions
Putting on your sou’wester and walking in wet weather is good for us because colliding water droplets produce more negative ions in the air, which improve our sense of wellbeing. If you think this sounds a bit woo woo, the US government’s National Library of Medicine did a review of research on the topic and found that while there is still more to learn, negative ions have been associated with improving sleep, reducing stress and boosting immunity.
Āwhitu Regional Park
So don’t let a showery day put you off, get out on those paths and beaches and breathe those negative ions in. Enjoy watching the waves in Manukau Harbour, looking across to the Coromandel Peninsula and back to Auckland city from the lookout on Āwhitu Hatton Road Path.
Rain just smells so good
When rain falls on dry soil, plants release compounds like geosmin, ozone and plant oils. This earthy smell was named petrichor by Australian scientists in the 1960s, and geosmin has even been used as a perfume ingredient. The next time it rains, consider your nearest bush track as a soil-scented perfumery.
Smiths Bush Path in Northcote’s Onewa Domain is a great option, and it takes just 25 minutes to walk along the elevated boardwalk. Or breathe in the scent of tōtara in the rain (now there’s a name for a Kiwiana scent!) at Tōtara Puhinui Creek Path in Manurewa. With two playgrounds, the kids will be eager to join you, and dogs will love the off-leash dog area whatever the weather.
Everchanging vistas
Shakespear Regional Park
Clear blue skies are definitely uplifting, but fine weather can be overrated. Overcast, wet weather can alter familiar views, creating an air of mystery. Head to Shakespear Regional Park on a rainy day and watch the central city drifting in and out of view in the distance while you enjoy a wild walk across farmland on the tip of Whangaparāoa Peninsula. You’re also more likely to see rainbows during wet weather, so keep an eye out.
