Don’t let the winter season bog you and your family down! Though it may be cold, and rainy… get your family together and have fun (without spending heaps of money). If you are in need of some inspirational ideas to get you going, read on for fun activities to do when the weather is nice, or not so nice.

Oh What a Lovely Day!

Take advantage of the days when the sun is shining, and the clouds are nowhere to be seen. Put on your coat, and get outside for some fresh air! Take your family hiking, and check out the beautiful landscapes while you explore. Walk around town, stop by the shops and visit your local museums. Take a bike ride, or a car trip all over the place! There are many (low cost) things to do and see all over New Zealand. Not to mention countless free ways to have fun; toss a Frisbee around, play catch, walk the dog, etc.

What a Great Day to Stay Home!

When the weather is not so lovely, and you would much rather stay in; consider these fun idea’s for family activities! Depending on the age of your family, some of these activities will work better than others. I’ll try to provide enough inspiring idea’s that you could work with. Families with young children could enjoy building a fort in the living room, playing twister, creating art, or cooking goodies. If your children are a bit older; you might enjoy card games, sharing stories, watching movies, put together a puzzle, or playing the Wii. We all know that kids eventually grow out of the stage where they think family time is fun, try to get ideas from them on what they would like to do. Or, allow them to help plan the next family vacation.

Ask Your Friends and Family

If you are having troubles pleasing the members of your family, create an “idea bowl.” Have the members of your family write 3 to 5 ideas on a bit of paper, put them all in the bowl and draw one out. Working together is a great way to keep the peace! Ask your friends and relatives what they do to keep themselves entertained during the winter. Sharing your ideas and listening to others is perfect for coming up with new and exciting activities.

Get a babysitter! Take a night out, just you and your mate. Enjoy a quiet dinner and a movie while the kids play with their friends. Or, send the kids to a friends and enjoy a quiet evening at home. Everyone deserves a break!

Take control this winter and have fun! What winter family ideas do you have for families with young children or teens? What has been the most successful way to keep everyone entertained?

No Kids? No Problem!

If your family consists of you and your mate, here are some exciting winter activities for you! If the weather permits, be sure to get outside and take a walk through a nearby park. Take a hiking adventure or consider taking a weekend getaway; take in the views, experience some winter snow sports, or enjoy the nightlife and dining. If you are staying in, try cooking a romantic dinner or having a movie night. Have fun playing games with close friends and family, consider setting up a weekly dinner with friends. (Everyone can save money when everyone pitches in a little to support the fun!)

What ideas do you have for families without children? What is the best way you have found to enjoy your winter without spending heaps of cash?