Winter often gets a bad rap, but there's plenty to love about the colder months. 

It's the season of crisp mornings, hearty meals, cosy evenings and finding simple ways to slow down and reconnect. While it can be tempting to spend the season counting down to summer, winter offers its own unique opportunities to make memories, embrace the outdoors and enjoy life's simple pleasures. 

To help you make the most of the months ahead, we've put together a Kiwi winter bucket list filled with affordable, enjoyable ways to embrace the season. 

1. Watch the Matariki stars

Matariki marks the Māori New Year and is a time for reflection, remembrance and looking ahead. 

If you're an early riser, set your alarm before dawn and see if you can spot the Matariki star cluster in the morning sky. Alternatively, many communities around New Zealand host special events and celebrations during the season. 

Looking for more ways to celebrate? Read our guide to marking Matariki at home. 

2. Host a mid-winter dinner party

Winter is the perfect excuse to gather friends and whānau around the table. 

Think hearty meals, warm drinks, candles and plenty of conversation. It doesn't need to be elaborate or expensive to be memorable. 

Need inspiration? Check out our tips for hosting a dinner party on a budget. 

3. Visit a hot pool 

There are few experiences that feel more uniquely Kiwi in winter than soaking in a hot pool while the air outside is cold and crisp. 

Whether you're visiting a well-known thermal destination or discovering a local pool closer to home, it's one of the best ways to embrace the season. 

4. Create the ultimate hot chocolate station 

Turn an ordinary hot chocolate into a winter event. 

Set up a DIY station with marshmallows, whipped cream, cinnamon, chocolate shavings and other favourite toppings. It's a simple activity that's fun for both adults and children and makes staying indoors feel a little more special. 

5. Read a book by the fire 

Winter provides the perfect excuse to finally tackle that growing reading list. 

Find a comfortable chair, pour your favourite warm drink and spend an afternoon getting lost in a good book. 

If you don't have a fireplace at home, our fireside pub guide includes plenty of welcoming spots where you can enjoy the same atmosphere. 
 

6. Visit your local farmers' market

Winter produce is often overlooked, but some of the season's best ingredients arrive during the colder months. 

Look out for citrus fruits, root vegetables, mushrooms and baking ingredients that lend themselves perfectly to winter cooking. Supporting local growers is also a great way to connect with your community. 

7. Learn a new comfort food recipe 

There's something deeply satisfying about mastering a recipe you'll come back to year after year. 

Whether it's a slow-cooked stew, homemade soup or a decadent winter dessert, now is the perfect time to experiment in the kitchen. 

One staff favourite at the moment is this rich and hearty Irish Beef and Guinness Stew. 
 

8. Explore a local walking track 

Not every winter activity needs to happen indoors. 

A crisp winter morning can be one of the most beautiful times to explore your local area. Many walking tracks are quieter during winter, offering peaceful views and fresh air without the crowds. 

Just remember to rug up and pack a warm drink for afterwards. 

9. Host a board game afternoon 

Board games are a simple, affordable way to bring people together during the colder months. 

Invite a few friends over, put on a pot of tea and settle in for an afternoon of friendly competition. It's a refreshing alternative to spending another day scrolling on your phone or watching television. 

10. Refresh your home for winter 

Sometimes the simplest winter activity is making your home feel more comfortable. 

Add a few soft textures, update your lighting, check your heating and create spaces that encourage you to slow down and relax during the colder months. 


For more inspiration, explore our guide to cosying up your home for winter. 

Make winter something to look forward to

Winter doesn't have to be a season you simply endure until summer arrives. With a few simple activities, it can become a time for connection, comfort, adventure and creating meaningful moments with the people around you. 

Whether you're watching the Matariki stars, trying a new recipe or heading out for a frosty morning walk, there are plenty of reasons to embrace everything a Kiwi winter has to offer. 

Photo: Market photo, plus we need to credit the photographer etc: Photo thanks to Wellington NZ and Ryan Domenico