Most of us spend soooo much over Christmas, but not everything that is fun and enjoyable costs money. The same applies to summer activities – there are loads of free things to do in Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington.
Whether you are looking for something to entertain the kids (or to stop them driving you crazy during their summer holiday from school!), or you want to make Christmas really special this year because, well, 2020, you can do it on a budget. For some things, you don't need to spend anything.
Use our guide and start planning what you want to do for free this Xmas and summer.
Life Happens
Before getting into the guide of free things to do this Christmas, what if you are thinking of something you need that is more expensive?
If this is something you are thinking about, we can help you get the funds you need with an online loan for the holidays, or anything else you are planning. Plus, you can apply for our loan finance without any hassle here.
Now back to the freebies (and a few super cheap things too)! Here’s how to be on a budget this Christmas and summer.
Best Free Things to Do this Christmas in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, NZ
Local councils and arts groups across the country put on a range of activities to mark the Christmas festivities, many of which you can enjoy for free.
The Christmas Lights at MOTAT in Auckland are a particular favourite. Okay, this one isn't free, but it's pretty cheap, especially when you consider everything that is going on – the brilliant Christmas lights, Christmas movie screenings, carol singers, crafts for the kids to join in with, and much more.
In Wellington, head to Lambton Quay, Courtenay Place Park, or Cuba Street to enjoy live music and performances as part of the council's Christmas celebrations. The Christmas lights are on Taranaki Street, Oriental Parade, Lambton Quay, Cuba Street, and Jervois Quay. Plus, make sure you check out Wellington's popular Advent Calendar for great ideas and discount offers on popular Wellington attractions.
There are loads of things to do for free in and around Christchurch, too, including Santa’s Mega Grotto, Christmas markets, the Santa Search at Canterbury Museum, Carols in the Quarry at Halswell Quarry Park, Christmas Music for pre-schoolers at the Transitional Cathedral, and much more.
Free Things to Do this Summer
Looking beyond Christmas (or to get a break from the Christmas hustle and bustle), what are some of the other free things you can enjoy this summer?
5 Free Things to do in Auckland this Summer
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Explore the area by going on a walk or hike. Trust us, there are parts of Auckland you never knew existed but will want to come back to again and again.
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Spend the day at Cornwell park to get away from it all. Plus, there's loads of space for the kids to run off all their energy!
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Walk up a volcano by taking a hike to the top of Auckland's Mt. Eden. It's the highest natural spot in the city, and the views are stunning.
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Head inside for a bit of cultural and educational bliss with a trip to Auckland Museum.
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Go to Tawhawanui Open Sanctuary for a spot of bird watching.
5 Free Things to do in Christchurch this Summer
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Stroll around Hagley Park and enjoy Christchurch's famous botanic gardens.
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Spend a couple of hours in one of Christchurch's fantastic markets. The Farmers Market at Riccarton House & Bush is one you shouldn't miss.
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Head to Sumner beach for the day to chill out in the sand or to do a bit of surfing. You don't have to spend anything, but there are plenty of cafes and little shops if you find you're in need of something during your visit.
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Visit New Brighton and take a walk down the famous pier. The beaches are good in New Brighton, too, and there are loads of nice places to eat on Marine Parade.
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Check out the street art on display at Brockworth Street. Not all art galleries have to be under a roof!
5 Free Things to do in Wellington this Summer
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Enjoy the fantastic views of the city after walking to the top of Mt Victoria.
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Visit what many believe is the best museum in New Zealand – the Te Papa Museum. Every exhibition is an amazing exploration of New Zealand.
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Check out the Lord of the Rings and King Kong sculptures, as well as loads of other cool things at the Weta Cave in Miramar.
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Go for a hike around Wellington's bays, taking the stunning coastal path.
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Take a walk along the waterfront in Wellington. It sounds simple, but there is always loads going on.
