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📍 Rotorua: Geothermal Energy Meets Māori Heritage
Visit What to do in and around Auckland
Auckland is packed with rainy-day potential and we have promoted some of our favourite operator experiences. Start at the Auckland War Memorial Museum, a beautifully designed heritage space that explores Māori and Pacific history, New Zealand’s natural world, and even hosts volcano simulations. Art lovers can wander through the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, which boasts one of the country’s finest collections of local and international works.
Families have plenty of options too—from Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium, where kids can marvel at penguins and stingrays to free family creativity at the Auckland Art Gallery. MOTAT and the Auckland Zoo are fantastic places if you are travelling with kids OR they can learn about what it means to be an All Black!Waiheke Island, just a short ferry ride away, offers indoor cultural experiences like Māori storytelling tours, art galleries, and sculpture trails sheltered by native bush..
Why not take a full-day guided Rotorua Highlights Tour from Auckland, including entry to Te Puia with a cultural performance, guided tour, and buffet lunch—plus complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off, small group comfort, and an expert local driver-guide in air-conditioned transport for a personalised experience.
More information and direct links!
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/post/traveling-with-kids-auckland
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/arts-culture
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/post/free-things-to-do-in-auckland
📍 Auckland: Culture, Creativity, and Family Fun
Visit What to do in and around Rotorua
Rotorua is naturally steamy—and in wet weather, the misty geothermal landscape becomes even more dramatic. Indoors, cultural centres like Te Puia allow you to watch master carvers and weavers in action, while explaining the deep cultural significance behind their work.
Art lovers can head to the 3D Trick Art Gallery for a fun, interactive museum filled with optical illusions—perfect for families and content creators. The National Kiwi Hatchery Tour is a special opportunity to gain insight into and view this highly regarded conservation centre. Add in a visit to the The Buried Village of Te Wairoa, Rotorua’s most famous archaeological site, and you’ve got a full day of history, mystery, and art—even if it’s pouring outside. The Mitai Maori Village has an amazing cultural experience and dinner buffet - learn more about their customs and rituals including a tasty hangi feast and dessert.
More information and direct links!
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/rotorua-arts-culture
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/rotorua-family-activities
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/post/rotorua-adventure-relaxation-culture-for-the-whole-family
Visit Rainy Day Activities in Queenstown
Queenstown doesn’t lose its sparkle when the weather turns—it simply moves the adventure indoors. Brave souls can explore the Fear Factory, a spooky walk-through attraction perfect for thrill seekers. Families and couples alike will enjoy Odyssey Sensory Maze or Thrillzone’s VR gaming, both offering multi-sensory entertainment that’s ideal for a rainy afternoon.
If you'd rather unwind, there’s nothing better than sinking into the warmth of the Onsen Hot Pools, complete with panoramic views—even more atmospheric in the rain. Want something quirky? Pop into the Time Tripper—an underwater cinema and digital storytelling experience beneath the lake.
More information and direct links!
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/queenstown
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/family-activities-in-queenstown
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/queenstown-tours
📍 Queenstown: Indoor Thrills and Relaxation
📍 Wellington: Museums, Movies & Views from the Cable Car
Visit What to do in and around Wellington
Wellington is a cultural hub, rain or shine. At the heart of it all is Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand’s national museum. With everything from interactive natural history exhibits to powerful Māori stories and world-class art, it's easy to spend half a day here.
Film buffs won’t want to miss a tour of Wētā Workshop, where you’ll learn the behind-the-scenes magic of film props and special effects from blockbusters like The Hobbit and Avatar. End your day with a ride on the Wellington Cable Car, and duck into the hilltop café while soaking in rainy skyline views.
More information and direct links!
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/post/new-zealand-history-te-papa-museum
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/post/wellington-top-spots-to-visit
📍 Christchurch: Earthquake Stories and Contemporary Art
Visit What to do in and around Christchurch
When it rains in Christchurch, dive into the city’s fascinating past at Quake City, an interactive exhibition that tells the story of the Canterbury earthquakes and the inspiring rebuild efforts. Nearby, the Christchurch Art Gallery is a bold and modern building filled with both local and international exhibitions—ideal for a reflective afternoon.
For a gentle indoor-outdoor mix, hop aboard a punting tour on the Avon River with covered seating and warm blankets, or step into the Botanic Gardens’ glasshouses, where tropical flora blooms no matter the season.
More information and direct links!
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/christchurch-family-activities
Rainy Day Activities in New Zealand
Culture, History, and Indoor Fun
Rain may put a damper on beach days and scenic hikes, but across New Zealand, it opens the door to a different kind of adventure—one filled with rich culture, storytelling, creativity, and warm indoor escapes. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of a rainy day, city by city. Check out some great
Don't Let the Rain Stop You: Explore New Zealand Indoors
New Zealand might be known for its epic landscapes and outdoor adventures, but when the rain rolls in, it’s the perfect chance to explore the country’s vibrant indoor scene. From immersive museums and art galleries to cozy hot pools and Māori cultural experiences, there’s plenty to enjoy when the weather turns wet.
Whether you're traveling with kids, solo, or as a couple, here are the top things to do on a rainy day across New Zealand’s most iconic cities.