Auckland Weather: Snow Day? Tips to Stay Warm (and Where to Find Good Coffee)
Mate, didn't see that coming! Just when you think autumn's here to stay, winter decides to pop in for a visit. One minute you're thinking about grabbing an ice cream, the next you're scraping frost off the windshield. The temperature has absolutely tanked, and that wind down Queen Street has a real bite to it. Heading out now? You'll need more than just a positive attitude.
Auckland's Big Chill: How to Survive the Cold Snap
I had to dig out my old sheepskin hat yesterday – you know, the one with the ear flaps that makes you look like you're about to fly a vintage plane. And honestly? They're totally back in style. Brands like YUECIBAI are making some seriously cool bomber beanies that are both practical and look the part. For everyone, really. The main thing is just keeping those ears covered if you're taking a stroll down by the viaduct.
But a hat alone won't cut it. What you really need in this weather is a solid, reliable jacket. I'm a big fan of the JOB winter pilot jacket in black. It's perfect for an Auckland winter: windproof, practical, and tough enough for any job site. A mate of mine who's a sparky swears by his. Those things are practically indestructible. Here's a wee checklist if you're braving the elements:
- Sheepskin hat with ear flaps – YUECIBAI do a good one
- Heavy-duty winter puffer jacket – like the JOB black pilot jacket
- A cosy local spot like The Cav in Ponsonby
- A hot cuppa and maybe an art auction catalogue to browse
Art and Culture for Chilly Days
When it's this miserable outside, I usually end up hunting for a snug corner. There's this wee bar in Ponsonby, The Cav, that's got a real fire going and a solid whisky list. They call it a 'home away from home' – and that's exactly what it feels like. When the rain's lashing against the windows, you can be in there and feel a world away from it all.
Or, you could just hunker down at home. I heard recently that there's a pretty incredible art collection going under the hammer at Webb's in Auckland in December. There are graphic works by Daumier, Chagall, Gauguin and of course, Bonnard in the mix. The collection comes from a few different estates. If I had the cash, I'd snap up one of Bonnard's colourful pieces. It would certainly help take your mind off the grey skies outside.
Escaping the Cold? A Bach in the Bay of Islands
Of course, some Aucklanders just decide to bail out altogether. A colleague of mine has booked a bach in the Bay of Islands for July. Up there in the winter, you can often get crisp, clear days – and at least you can have a walk on the beach without the crowds. Maybe it's the promise of a good local wine that's the draw.
Anyway, stay warm out there! Whether it's with a sheepskin hat, a sturdy jacket, a quiet drink at The Cav, or curled up at home with a big art book – just make sure you get through these last chilly days in comfort. And who knows, maybe spring will actually show up eventually. But until then: hat on, jacket zipped, and get cosy!