If it’s not summer in New Zealand, it’s probably raining. We don’t get bothered by it. After all, the indoor activities Auckland offers range from museums to sports, from animal viewing to laughter, and we try to visit them all.
Let us inspire you with our favourite of the rainy day activities Auckland provides. With this list in hand, you will (hopefully) never run out of options in Auckland when it’s raining.
Despite the beautiful sunny images of Auckland that we all share on popular groups like Explore New Zealand, the reality is that it rains on average 180 days of the year. That’s just over half.
July is typically the rainiest month, and January is the driest. This rain helps us keep our reputation for being green, both environmentally and visually.
Our favourite Indoor activities in Auckland
Kelly Tarltons Sealife Aquarium
Kelly Tarlton's Sealife Aquarium is where we discover the sea life in local Auckland waters and the Southern Ocean down to Antarctica.
Built underground, it is home to the world's first walk-through acrylic tunnels. As we pass through, we are surrounded by colourful marine life or shark-infested waters.
And while I love the tunnels, it's the Antarctic King and Gentoo penguins that get my biggest smiles.
Hours: Open daily during school holidays, closed Tuesday and Wednesday during school term.
Admission: Entry fees with family concessions
Location: 23 Tamaki Drive, Orakei
Save time with advanced tickets:
Check for discounts on general admission tickets
Wintergardens
Wintergardens was built during the early 1900s to provide garden viewing in the winter months; they are now registered on the New Zealand Historic Places Trust. It's located Inside the city’s oldest park, the Auckland Domain very near the Auckland Museum.
Surrounding an ornate courtyard and reflection pool are two Victorian-style greenhouses and a fernery. While both greenhouses contain a variety of colourful, fragrant, vibrant flowers and plants, one is tropical (heated), and the other is temperate. We generally visit all three and usually spend less than an hour here.
Hours: Open daily - hours vary by season and day
Admission: free
Location: The Auckland Domain, Parnell
Auckland Museum
The Auckland Museum is guardian to the world's largest collection of Māori artefacts. If you have time for nothing else, this exhibit is worth a visit.
Some of our other highlights are the volcano exhibit, the mummy, and the extensive history of the flora, fauna, and people of New Zealand.
The top floor houses the War Memorial Museum, displaying military histories and serving as a tribute to those who served in New Zealand's military.
Hours: Open daily 10 am to 5 pm.
Cost: Free for Auckland residents, donations requested for other New Zealand residents, fees for international visitors with discounts for children and families.
Location: The Auckland Domain, Parnell
All Blacks Experience
Fascinating, fun, and inspiring, the All Blacks Experience will enhance your pride in our country. The guide we had was passionate as she took us through this informative and impressive homage to New Zealand rugby.
Here, we discover what it takes to make, shape, and be an All Black, experience an incredibly powerful haka, play interactive games, and explore some of the player's rituals.
At the end of the 45-minute guided tour, we had an opportunity to learn and try our skills in the interactive zone, where we passed, kicked, and tested our knowledge and agility. To me, this was the highlight, although I think our girls beat me in every activity that was scored.
Hours: Open daily from 9:30 am to 6 pm, with tours departing from 10 am to 4.30 pm.
Cost: Fee for entry with discounts for children and families
Location: Level 4, 88 Federal Street, Auckland
Weta Workshop Unleashed
The Weta Workshop Unleashed is a wildly imaginative experience that invites guests into a fantastical film effects facility, inspired by the Academy Award-winning Weta Workshop. Explore the makings of horror, sci-fi, and fantasy on your extraordinary guided journey.
While we have not had personal experience with the Auckland venue, the Weta Workshop tour in Wellington far exceeded my expectations, and I imagine this one would too.
Hours: Open daily 10 am to 6 pm
Admission: Fee for entry with discounts for children
Location: Level 5, 88 Federal Street, Auckland
Cakes n Ladders Cafe
Board games are one of our family's favourite indoor activities. Auckland has the perfect place to try out a new game, or challenge a friend to a favourite. Cakes n Ladders features great coffee, a relaxed atmosphere, and more games than a typical toy store. And you don't need to buy them first!
Hours: Open Wed-Fri 1 pm to 10 pm, Sat and Sun 10 am to 10 pm.
Admission: Low hourly rate, plus pay for food
Location: 173 Symonds Street, Auckland
Holy Trinity Cathedral
Holy Trinity Cathedral is an unusual mix of traditional and modern. It is the world's only architectural example of a Pacific-Gothic cathedral.
The eighteen vibrant, stained glass windows line the east and west walls of the nave. In addition to traditional symbols, they add Polynesian designs. Their centrepiece is a huge stained glass window filling the back wall and featuring a Polynesian Christ surrounded by vividly coloured Pacific motifs.
Professional musicians, school choirs, and others often rely on the ethereal acoustics for their Auckland performances. We stumbled upon a choir rehearsal, and it was a real treat.
Hours: vary by day
Admission: free
Location: Corner of St Stephens Avenue & Parnell Road, Parnell
Stardome Observatory and Planetarium
With both live and pre-filmed planetarium shows, Stardome offers a unique experience. It also houses educational space exhibits. Weather-dependent stargazing is also available.
Hours: Open daily, hours vary by day, with night hours from Tuesday to Sunday
Admission: varies by show. Check for discounts.
Location: 670 Manukau Rd, One Tree Hill Domain
New Zealand Maritime Museum
This island nation's nautical history comes to life at the New Zealand Maritime Museum. It takes us from the dugout canoes that brought the first Polynesian people only 1,000 years ago to modern world-class racing vessels, including America's Cup. There is a weather-dependent opportunity (paid) to sail on a heritage vessel. (wind, not rain, is the issue)
As someone who grew up in the Northern Hemisphere, I find this museum fascinating, and I try to visit it annually.
Hours: open daily 10 am to 5 pm (last entry 4 pm)
Admission: Free for Auckland residents, all others pay an entry fee.
Location: Corner of Quay and Hobson St, Viaduct Harbour
Snowplanet
Snowplanet is New Zealand's only indoor snow dome, and for a while, it felt like our family's home away from home. Here, we can ski, snowboard, or tube, regardless of the weather.
A moving sidewalk (magic carpet) brings beginners to their own easy slope, while more experienced athletes can ride up on the Poma lift. From the top of the 200m hill, enjoy a smooth ride down or tackle the jumps and rails of the terrain park.
Add a meal at 7 Summits while enjoying the massive windows to view the entire slope. The restaurant is perfect for those who prefer their indoor activities in Auckland to also be warm. (The temperature in the snow dome is a steady -5°C.)
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Varies by option and rental gear.
Location: 91 Small Road, Silverdale
Save on winter wonderland tubing with discounts depending on the day and time selected.
MOTAT (Museum of Transport and Technology
MOTAT features the best of New Zealand creativity. A hands-on, family-friendly science museum featuring technological and aviation displays, offering insights through 150+ years of New Zealand European history.
Hours: open daily 10 am to 4 pm
Cost: Fee for entry with concessions for seniors, students, children, and families.
Location: 805 Great North Rd, Western Springs
Torpedo Bay Navy Museum
As we strolled through models, artefacts, images and more, we learned about the naval history in NZ and were impressed by how much is under the responsibility of our Navy.
It's much more than defence and wartime activities; there are peacekeeping missions, exploration, search and rescue, and even a history of observing nuclear testing (not in NZ waters).
Boasting a lovely cafe, there is plenty to keep you busy here for a few hours on the next rainy day in Auckland. And if the weather clears, you can enjoy a coastal walk from right out the door.
Hours: 10am-5pm daily, closed on Christmas Day, Good Friday, and Boxing Day.
Cost: Free for New Zealand Residents, International Visitors 18+ $10
Location: 64 King Edward Parade, Devonport
Giapo Ice Cream
Giapo is ice cream perfection and creativity like nowhere else. We have been in love with Giapo's ice cream creation since our first sample, and rain or shine, we stop here when we head to Auckland. The attention to every detail of the handmade creations shines through in the colourful presentation and, more importantly, in the flavours.
Hours: Open Thursday to Sunday
Admission: Prices vary by selection
Location: 12 Gore Street, Auckland CBD
Auckland Art Gallery
From classic to contemporary, the Auckland Art Gallery houses over 17,000 artworks. The artwork ranges from painting and sculpture to multimedia. It is the country's biggest collection of both domestic and international artwork.
Hours: Open daily 10 am to 5 pm
Cost: Free
Location: Corner of Kitchener and Wellesley Streets, Auckland CBD
Attend a festival
Auckland is home to festivals, shows, and other indoor events almost weekly. Our favourites include the food show, chocolate and coffee show, home show, and, of course, the travel and cruise expos.
Hours: varies by festivals
Admission: Often free, but varies by the festival or event
Location: varies by event
SkyCity Casino
We find this world-class gambling establishment to be more subdued than those we saw in Las Vegas. Once inside, we found poker rooms, 150 gaming tables, and over 2,100 machines.
Whether you choose to play, enjoy the variety of on-stage entertainment, or just people-watch, the energetic atmosphere is contagious, and the mood always seems happy and upbeat.
Note: Minimum entry age is 20, ID required.
Hours: Always open
Admission: free (pay to play)
Location: Corner Victoria Street and Federal Street, Auckland CBD
Te Uru Gallery
This award-winning, purpose-built contemporary gallery changes its exhibits several times annually, making each visit unique. It overlooks the sub-tropical rainforest and utilises both natural and diffused light as well as open spaces. It creates an inviting atmosphere.
Hours: open Tuesday to Sunday 10 am to 4:30 pm
Cost: Free
Location: 420 Titirangi Road, Titirangi
Arataki
If you are heading out to the west coast, be sure to stop at Arataki Visitors Centre. While it is the gateway to the subtropical rainforest, the facility itself is interesting. Even on a rainy day in Auckland, we can stand on one of the decks and enjoy the rugged natural beauty you'd expect in New Zealand.
Arataki features numerous Maori carvings, interactive displays, and guidance to the over 250km of walking trails in the Waitakere Ranges, some of which are closed, and all of which are outdoors, so many not be optimal in the rain.
Hours: Open daily - hours vary by season
Admission: free
Location: 300 Scenic Drive, Titirangi
The Civic Theatre
Auckland, being a modern metropolitan city, has several fabulous theatrical venues and brings in an array of international productions intermixed with local and national performers.
If it's the theatre itself that interests you, don't miss the Civic, one of the world's last remaining Atmospheric theatres.
Hours: varies by show
Admission: free to walk through the Civic lobby. Prices vary by show
Location: Corner of Queen Street and Wellesley Street West
The Classic
The only full-time comedy club in Auckland, The Classic is just as the name implies. With a different show every night, you never know what to expect.
Comedians are from both the local and pro circuit and include frequent international entertainers. Be aware shows are for the 18-and-up crowd thanks to language and sexual references.
Hours: Closed Monday, Tuesdays and Sundays
Admission: Varies by show
Location: 321 Queen Street, Auckland CBD
Enjoy one of the energetic indoor activities Auckland offers
Be sure to check BookMe for possible discounts at the location you choose.
- Go-karts (Locations in Albany, East Tamaki, and Henderson)
- 10-Pin bowling (Locations throughout Auckland)
- Rock climbing (Locations in Albany, Birkenhead, Glen Eden, Mount Eden, and Panmure)
- Escape rooms ( Locations in CBD, Ellerslie, Manukau, and Takapuna)
- Indoor mini-golf: (Locations in CBD, Parnell, Mount Wellington, New Lynn, Takapuna)
- Laser tag (Locations throughout Auckland)
- Ice skating (July pop-up rink in Aotea Square, plus all year in Avondale and Botany Downs)
- Trampoline centres (Locations in Avondale, Grey Lynn, Manukau, and Mairangi Bay)
- Pool and billiard halls (Locations throughout Auckland)
- Indoor swimming (Locations throughout Auckland and in Auckland Council Leisure Centres)
- Pole dancing or yoga class (Locations throughout Auckland)
- Sensory maze (Auckland CBD)
- Virtual Reality (Newmarket)
- Salt Cave Halotherapy (North Shore City)
Less unique indoor activities in Auckland
- Shopping at indoor malls like Sylvia Park, Commercial Bay, and Mānawa Bay (discount mall), or if you don’t mind the rain, head in and out of the stores on Queen Street.
- Watch a movie at any of the Auckland movie theatres.
- Visit a library and read a book.
- Beer or wine tasting.
Wait for it . . . a double rainbow
Frequent bright and vivid rainbows are my favourite aspect of the all-too-often rain. It doesn’t always signify the end of a storm, but at least it’s a colourful break. This double rainbow was shot from our deck.
Or, ignore the Auckland rain – that’s what locals do
Many years ago, walking was my primary exercise as I recovered from an injury. I asked for an alternate exercise for rainy days. With a straight face, my Kiwi trainer replied, “Is there a particular reason you can’t walk in the rain?”
With that story in mind, I roll my eyes as I propose the following rainy-day activities Auckland loves:
Attend a sporting event
There is no better example of Kiwis not caring about the rain than at an All Blacks test match. Look how happy my friend’s adult children seem to be.
In truth, not much would stop any New Zealander from attending this All Blacks match against Australia.
Photo Credit: ©Debbie Swiatek. Used with permission.
Go for a jog
I am not a runner, but somehow it still surprised me that this guy considered jogging along the waterfront among the things to do in Auckland when raining.
Head to an outdoor market
Every Saturday and Sunday morning, there are a variety of markets throughout Auckland. They take place rain or shine.
Sailing in the rain
I was on the ferry heading home in the rain when I took this shot. While I was also out on a boat, mine was purely for transportation, which, to me, is much different than recreation.
Go on a rainy night photoshoot
The photographer in me can often ignore the weather, especially as I shoot with my weatherproof Olympus OMD em5 camera. I may get soaked, but the camera will be fine.
Wondering when the Auckland rain will end?
Of course, it’s not always raining in Auckland, but sometimes it feels like it. And, if you read this page, there is a good chance to find some new indoor activities Auckland is known for, as it’s a rainy day today. The most accurate weather forecast is usually found at Metservice. However, when heading out to sea, we check the forecast at Metvuw.
And once the rains are over, don’t miss these fun things to do in and around the city.
More from Auckland you might like
… starting with these 75 free and nearly free things to do in the city
What are your favourite things to do in Auckland when it’s raining?
Disclaimer: We are frequently provided with complimentary entrances, tours, or sample items to aid in the writing of Albom Adventures. However, the opinions expressed here are strictly our own.
Linda (LD Holland)
I love the variety in the things to do inside on a rainy day in Auckland. I am sure there is a little something for everyone here. The indoor snow dome is a very cool one. That attitude about getting out in the rain was what we found when we spent an autumn in Vancouver. Unless it was pouring, it really was not raining.
Anda
Hmmm… I didn’t realize winters are so wet in New Zealand. That’s why is so green there, lol! I don’t really like it when it rains for days in a row. Especially if I am on vacation. However, considering how many things you can do inside on a rainy day, I think I could live with it. But for a while only, hahaha. The maritime museum looks very interesting and so does the aquarium.
Jessi (Two Feet, One World)
Ha it’s true, if you waited for it to stop raining in spring you’d be waiting a long time! Great collection of activities.
beatravelling
Should have had this when I was bored in Auckland 🙂 Indoor slopes impress, even though I don’t ski 🙂
Kathryn Dickson
I never realized that Auckland got so much rain! But I love the ideas of visiting art galleries when it rains! I’d also do that and bring the kids!
Laura
These are all great activities! My favorite has to be the ice cream 🙂
Laura
Danielle
So many good activities to do inside. Some I would have never thought of so thank you for sharing these!
Hilary
Hi Rhonda – I’d love to see the Auckland Museum … to learn more … let alone all the other thoughts – great list – cheers Hilary
Maartje van Sandwijk
The Star dome and cat cafe are definitely right up my street!
tweenselmom
Wow 40 activities on a rainy day. Even if it rains everyday for the whole month, this gets it. Thank you for the great job done.
Akriti
I have never been to New Zealand but have seen so many pictures of its natural beauty. And I’m pleasantly surprised to know that it offers so much in terms of indoor activities as well.
Aditi Sharma
This is such an incredible list of rainy day indoor activities in Auckland – I’d love to visit the Wintergardens and I am sure my kids would love to visit the indoor snow dome! Giapo’s ice cream definitely sounds tempting. Pinning this post for referring back to in future when we plan our trip.
Lyanna Soria
Wow! There are tons of amazing places for indoor activities to do and you compiled them all here in one place. I would probably wanna chill in a cafe or go visit an aquarium with the family.
Sophia
Wow it looks so beautiful here. I would love to go visit. I will pin this for the future.
Kelsey
Looks like Aukland has no shortage of fun activities! And LOLing about the going outside in the rain – I’m from California so at the first sign of a rain drop we all run for cover LOL. I’m currently residing in Europe and learning to get used to doing things outside even when the weather isn’t ideal!
alexandra cook
What an amazing selection of things to do. New Zealand is high on my list of countries to visit, it looks incredible. I love everything about it and I haven’t even been there yet!
mudpiefridays
I love New Zealand, but have never been to Auckland. Looks like a beautiful place and love your photos!
Kim
Great ideas. I love wandering around the Auckland Museum. I could spend a few hours in there.
Stephanie
This is a great list! When I come to visit New Zealand I definitely will be checking out these! Especially the Wintergardens
Stephanie Stebbins
How fun! Great ideas!
Kuntala Bhattacharya
wow so many places for indoor activities. Very amazing , hope I can visit them. I had a small suggestion why not cover each of these places separately in an article or maybe group some and come up with a series.
Joanna
There are so many wonderful activities that you can do indoors in Auckland. My favorite has to be the Wintergardens, I love being surrounded by flowers.
Sandee
Spring is right around your corner and the good weather will start to appear. It’s good to have lots of indoor activities during the rainy months though. You’ve got that covered.
Have a fabulous day and week, Rhonda. ♥
Nancy
These do like nice things to do on a gloomy day – very interesting and varied ideas here!
Alex J. Cavanaugh
Sometimes you just have to go out despite the rain.
Indoor skiing – now that would be fun to try.
Michael
Wow! NZ is known for having such outdoor activities and you just made me know that there are still places to see in NZ that are worth it to go aside from the adrenaline pumping ones haha!
Crickette, Things I Have to Say
I don’t have a cat, but I want to go to that cat cafe, it looks cozy. And the ice cream looks so delicious!
Sincerely Jackline
Wow, so many indoors activities, I love aquarium, so I would definitely love the Kelly Tarltons Sealife Aquarium. Thanks for the list.