Cheap Summer Thrills

There's nothing quite like hot sand, cool water and the fresh open air for holiday vibes. Popular beaches get very crowded on the weekend so if you want more choice as to where to prop up the sun shade, try heading to a smaller beach or go in the evening after work. It's also fun to head to a beach you've never been to before. These can make for some lovely day trips – it's like a holiday without the accommodation fee. But before you go, find out what sort of beach babe you are with our quiz here!

 

Organising a get together like a barbeque is a great way to keep spirits high when the holiday's over. It gives you something fun and relaxing to look forward to and you can keep occupied organising little details rather than feeling envious of those overseas. Have fun with the planning too. Buy some outdoor lanterns, gather up good music, make delicious snacks to keep in the fridge and have entertainment options like Singstar, Pictionary, soccer or even a water fight (if you're up for it) at the ready.
 
Then set a date at the end of it for the next barbeque at another house. You've set the ball rolling so kick back and enjoy the next ones – it could become a regular thing with your friends!

 

Summer festivals are fantastic. You buy the tickets (which are usually not too expensive), get the transport sorted and wallah, you've got a great day out with friends and good music. Check out things like Homegrown, Groove in the Park, the George FM Park Party, Titirangi Music Festival and BFM Summer Series for just some of the bigger options.

There should also be free smaller gigs around your town to look out for. Auckland's North Shore, for example, hold Shore Sounds in Feb and March with concerts ranging from jazz at Waiake Beach to punk and rock for teens at Onewa Domain. Check out Eventfinder and your local council website for updates.

 

Now is a great time to try something different outdoors. You could take some flippers and a snorkel up to Goat Island to marvel at the fish; try horse riding; get the bike out and head to a cycle trail; take a mate to a nearby tennis court (local schools often have them); get into the garden and tidy it up for that barbeque or start a vegie garden; or even try your hand at water sports – kite surfing is incredibly difficult but exciting or rent a kayak for a gentler day out on the water. NZ also has plenty of beautiful bush walks for some pleasant exercise in the shade.

 

Take a break from the heat inside whilst still enjoying the most of summer. Whip up summer treats like homemade lemonade, ice blocks (just pour juice into moulds and freeze), your own salad creation, or tropical fruit kebabs. Getting into a good book is also perfect bliss whilst sitting inside with the sun shining in. Choose something feel-good to keep up those high spirits.

 

The options for enjoying summer are endless and many don't cost a thing. We hope you have a fantastic one!