Friday Five: How to keep the winter blues away

1. Cuddle up in a cosy pub

Nothing says winter like catching up with a friend over a delicious drink or meal. Check out this handy list of cosy places put together by WellingtonNZ and book yourself a merry little meal. 

2. Drop it like it’s hot (chocolate) 

WellingtonNZ have made a list of the hottest hot chocolates around town right now. Get your hands on a steaming mug of goodness!

Check out the list on their website.

3. Take a midwinter dip

If you’re feeling brave, why not organise a midwinter swim?

Oriental Bay is a good spot, or if you really want to challenge yourself, head to the south coast and feel that Cook Strait chill. Check out other beaches to visit.

4. Count the umbrellas in rubbish bins

Most Wellingtonians know to opt for a raincoat in winter, but you can still spot the odd sad, destroyed brolly poking out of a central city rubbish bin.

Blunt umbrellas are a great bit of New Zealand ingenuity designed to survive the elements, and you can buy them from the gift shop at the Treehouse Visitor Centre! You can find their opening hours here.

5. Stay under the cover of native trees

Keen for a walk but don't want it to rain on your parade? You can get nature's best weather protection by strolling around under the beautiful native trees at Ōtari-Wilton's Bush, which has great walking track options to explore.  

Visit the Wellington Gardens website for more information.

Watch out each Friday for a fun list of five great activities to do, places to explore, or things to discover in our awesome city.