Five Activities to Plan Even When Payday Is Still a Week Away

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Auckland is a mecca for things to do on the cheap. You can get a dose of the great outdoors at some of New Zealand's best natural locations, dive into rich cultural experiences around the city, bask in the nightlife with friends or try your hand at learning something new.

As payday stretches far into next week, it can feel like your options for activities in New Zealand's largest city are few and far between. But with a bit of curiosity (and a little help from us and our friends at University of Auckland), you may find a new hobby, help a person in need or live it up, all without breaking the bank.

LEARN SOMETHING NEW AT A FREE AFTER-HOURS CLASS

Throughout the city, every day of the week, different people and organisations offer free or cheap classes. If you've always wanted to try drawing, there are groups such as Drink 'n' Draw that gather to share their stories and love of art. Often these groups are casual and attract people at all levels. Depending on the group, you may have to bring along a small donation and your own art supplies, although this varies.

Love dance but lack the funds to sign up for classes? Hot Hula classes are just $5 at the door and feature lively drum and reggae music. The Polynesian style of dance is smooth, expressive and will have your thigh muscles burning. Lululemon stores also host free Sweat Sundays every week, each time taught by a different instructor with a slightly different discipline to share — be it vinyasa flow, yin yoga or dance yoga.

Russell Street.

EXPLORE AUCKLAND'S NATURAL BEAUTY

Auckland holds its own when it comes to natural beauty. Within easy driving distance, you'll find an abundance of beaches, hikes and native bush to explore. The only cost is petrol money and whatever food you may want on the day. Piha and Bethells beaches are known for being wild, rugged and beautiful. Piha is a popular surfing spot, and both beaches have a number of hikes and walks at varying difficulties and lengths. For a longer excursion with some breathtaking scenery, the Te Henga Walkway is a winner.

North of Auckland is the likes of Warkworth and Goat Island, the former popular for picnics and kayaking while the latter is an excellent place to swim and enjoy the peaceful marine playground.

And when it comes to parks and gardens, Auckland has some great options you won't even need to drive to. Within the centre of the city is the Auckland Domain, with its well-known winter gardens, as well as Cornwall Park, which has a cafe and many places to bike, walk and sit. A little further out of the centre is the Botanic Gardens, which feature an abundance of flora and fauna.

HEAD TO LOCAL MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES FOR A TASTE OF CULTURE

Get a taste of local and international art and culture at Auckland's range of galleries and exhibition spaces. Your obvious first stop is the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, which is free for residents and just across Albert Park from the University of Auckland. Take in the latest exhibitions and leave some time for a stroll through the permanent collections of art through the centuries. There's also the Auckland War Memorial Museum in the Domain, which is free for residents, as well. Regarded as one of New Zealand's best museums, it covers topics such as Kiwi, natural and military history.

In addition to its museums, Auckland has many small galleries featuring a wide range of art. And if you time it right, you may even get a free glass of wine with your visit if it just so happens to be opening night. Ponsonby's Black Asterisk features fine contemporary art and often runs artist talks. While Parnell has several spots worth a visit, including Black Door Gallery, featuring various media from sculpture to jewellery; the Jonathan Grant Gallery, which specialises in NZ and British art; and the Artis Gallery, a sculpture gallery that represents leading NZ and Pacific artists.

CHECK OUT THE CITY'S DIVERSE MUSIC SCENE AFTER-HOURS

With such a mix of cultures, musical talents and music lovers, Auckland is a melting pot for gigs, cheap eats and quirky bars. You have many spots where you can catch a live gig in the city. In the CBD, head to the likes of The Tuning Fork, Cassette Nine and Irish pub Danny Doolans. On K Road, you'll find Whammy Bar, Wine Cellar and Neck of the Woods dishing out live tunes. Then, of course, there's the Ponsonby Social Club. Gigs are usually free but some of the bigger shows may be ticketed or there may be a cover at the door.

GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

It's important to often look past me, myself and I and do a bit of good. And there are several places you can do so around the city. A good place to start is the Volunteering Auckland website, where you can find information about offering your services as an individual. Be sure to give yourself a bit of time in advance as it may take a while to get everything sorted.

You could also check out the SPCA if you think working with animals is your thing, or there are Big Brother/Sister programs where you can mentor a young person. Clear some time in your calendar and make the commitment to do a bit of good for those who need it most. Not only will it cost you zero dollars, but it'll help give a bit more meaning to your semester.