Top 7 things to do on a chilly Auckland Winter’s Day
It’s that time of the year, it’s rainy and it’s cold and you would rather stay at home (and feel miserable) … and we don’t blame you. But we at the Big Foody Food Tours have come up with our favourite 7 ways to cheer you up on a chilly Auckland Winter’s Day and bring a smile back to your face.
Book yourself a night away at the Vineyard Cottages nestled between the vines in North West Auckland. You will be able to set yourself up in front of your own private fireplace, home-baked cookies and warm welcome drink on arrival. They’ve even got some Winter Escapes up on their website at the moment including super indulgent pampering sessions at Spa Di Vine and Trust the Chef dining options at the Hunting Lodge. With the north west region having so much to offer, the Vineyard Cottages is the perfect accommodation choice.
While you’re in the beautiful North West region and enjoying a night away at The Vineyard Cottages, check out the award winning Tasting Shed. Not far from the Vineyard Cottages at all and we can arrange transportation if needed. A dinner at the Tasting Shed is an absolute delight! Delicious ‘sharing’ plates that may take you outside your comfort zone, with different combinations and varieties, but always amazing! Always fresh and seasonal produce, amazing service and a great international wine list. Definitely one to add to your dining Bucket List.
Make a complete weekend of it with an indulgent His and Hers massage at Spa Di Vine before returning to your Vineyard Cottages luxury accommodation. Spa Di Vine has been running since 2002 and offers a wide variety of beauty and spa treatments. Check out Vineyard Cottages special as part of the Winter Escape’s Ultimate Spa and Gastronomy Stay . Get your pampering in and then head to the Vineyard Cottages and relax with in front of your private fireplace – the perfect winter getaway in this chilly weather and sure to put a spring back into your step.
Citrus, Citrus, Citrus!! There is a reason that citrus is in season at this time of the year. We think that the brights of oranges, lemons and limes definitely brighten up our days, who can’t resist bright colours and tastes of something summery. There is nothing better than fresh mandarins, lemons or grapefruit straight off a tree, whether it’s your own, your neighbours or even pick-your own – google it they do exist! But at this time of the year, they also do us good with those boosts of Vitamin C. Check out our recipe for our favourite Lemon and Honey toddy and more citrus recipes on the blog.
Go for a drive through North West Auckland. It is the perfect destination for a weekend drive, with so many different options. Whether your looking to get back to nature, looking to dine in some fantastic restaurants or something more adventurous. Our favourites include Muriwai and the Gannet Colony and lunch at the Tasting Shed (Fri – Sun) or Halleratau. The options are endless with horse riding on Muriwai Beach, 4WD or Mountain biking in Woodhill Forest, Skydiving, Tree Adventures… the list goes on. And if you’ve exhausted yourself and want to spend the night, don’t forget us at the Vineyard Cottages.
Make yourself some winter comfort-food. We know this probably won’t get you out of the house, but your warm, satisfied belly will definitely make you feel happy and content. We have included some of The Big Food’s favourite recipes below (and on the blog). Roast lamb, soups, crockpot recipes and warm satisfying desserts!!
Join us on a Big Foody Food Tour! With winter here we’ve got hot coffees to enjoy and taste, satisfying bakery items and lots of other warming goodies. Our guests may be bundled up with jackets and beanies but there is still heaps to taste and sample and learn about Auckland. Our tours are vibrant and exciting and you will learn all about Auckland, the city surrounded by water, volcanoes, vineyards and beaches. As the gateway to the rest of the country Auckland is the first port of call for many visitors coming to New Zealand and our tours are designed to give you the very best introduction to our gorgeous city and country. See you soon.
