Rainy weather doesn’t have to mean staying indoors with nothing to do. Mid Canterbury has plenty of experiences that take the dullness out of cloudy days.

From museums and creative hubs to pools and spas, here are some of the best ways to enjoy a drizzly day:

1. Step inside and explore New Zealand’s aviation history. With vintage aircraft, interactive displays, and passionate volunteers, the Ashburton Aviation Museum is a fascinating way to spend an afternoon sheltered from the rain.
2. Ever experienced a Virtual Reality Escape Room? Well, rainy weather can’t get you when you enter another world at Canterbury’s only Virtual Reality Arcade, Virtual & Retro. Located in the centre of Ashburton, the games, simulators and virtual escape rooms offering a superb range of activities. And afterwards, if you’re feeling a little peckish, visit Flackshbacks Ashburton for a family friendly environment to enjoy a bite to eat, and more arcade games to continue the fun!
3. If you’re looking for a more cosy, relaxing experience, Ōpuke Thermal Pools and Spa is the place for you. With starlit caves to hide away from the rain, relaxation treatments to indulge in, and a delicious menu to refuel after a soak. Take your kids and soak in the Discovery Pools, or enjoy childfree time to yourself with a soak in Tranquility – the adult only pools.
4. While the rain isn’t always our friend, particularly during the harvest season, it does offer an opportunity to move indoors and learn more about this awesome region. In Methven, the NZ Alpine & Agriculture Encounter offers a brilliant experience that your kids will love. In Ashburton you’ll find Rokowhiria, the Ashburton Art Gallery & Museum, with more interactive displays available.

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