Looking for a way to spend your Christmas break?
Those six days between Christmas and New Years can feel like you’re in a state of limbo. The days feel as though they all flow into one and before you know it, 2023 has arrived. If you’re looking for some fun things to get up to – or some creative ways to spice up your summer break – fear not! We have some wonderful ideas for you.
This year we have had the pleasure of working alongside some wonderful people and businesses to provide Dream Days to some extremely deserving Kiwi kids. Lifetime is proud to be the principal sponsors of Dream Days – a charitable trust dedicated to giving children aged between 5-21 that are affected by disability or illness a Dream Day with their friends and family. This is a nation-wide effort and relies heavily on the community involvement we receive to put on such special days for each child.
If you’re looking for something to do this summer, why not check out some of the amazing companies below and support a local business doing good for our community.
Auckland
Butterfly Creek – A fun day out for the whole family to meet some pretty cool animals (dinosaurs included!).
Jump – Let the kids blow off some steam, and maybe join them for a jump yourself.
Hamilton & Cambridge
Hamilton Hot Air Balloon – Start the day with the best view in the house for the sunrise.
Kaipaki Petting Farm – Get to know all of the farm animals and even ride some ponies!
C&R Developments Museum – Filled with all kinds of cars and machinery – it’s a dream day out for a motorhead!
Waikato and Bay of Plenty
Hell’s Gate Mud Spa – need some relaxation? Why not spend the afternoon pampering yourself.
Wellington
East by West Ferry – A day trip over to Days Bay is a great way to get out and about with the rest of the family.
Canterbury
Divine Cakes – if you’re feeling like a sweet treat, why not pop into Divine Cakes and pick up one (or a few) of their amazing creations?
Alpine Jet Thrills – Maybe you’re up for an adventure instead? Alpine Jet Thrills will have you sorted.
International Antarctic Centre – For the perfect way to get out of the summer heat but keep the kids entertained.
Christchurch, Auckland, Wellington, Bay of Plenty - Adrenalin Forest – get out and about in the treetops with the high-ropes and ziplines!
Christchurch & Auckland – Archie Brothers – There’s so much to do at Archie Brothers including mini golf, arcade games, bowling, and karaoke!
Invercargill
Dig This – Have fun operating all types of heavy machinery, it’s fun for all ages too.
Bill Richardson Transport World – an iconic Invercargill attraction!
There’s plenty of fun to be had this summer – no matter where in the country you are!
Do You Have a Toxic Relationship with the Phrase “Treat Yourself”?
The phrase “treat yourself” has become a modern mantra. It’s a great way to celebrate a milestone, reward a job well done, or break free from your everyday routine. However, when it comes to our bank accounts, treating yourself can sometimes cause more harm than good.
One small indulgence leads to another, and before you know it, the lines between self-care and overspending blur. You might walk away from the register with a bag in hand but a sinking feeling in your stomach. Sound familiar?
Scroogenomics at Christmas: Finding Joy Beyond ‘The Extravagance’
Gazing through the dimly lit windows of his modest office, Ebenezer Scrooge pondered the modern-day Christmas, “Ah, Christmas – each December, a tide of frivolity sweeps the world, with consumers collectively parting with an estimated $1 trillion globally on holiday spending.”
Reflecting on this, the Scroogenomist wonders, “What if Christmas were not marked by gaudy extravagance, but by acts of kindness? A season where gifts are not measured by their price tags, but by the care and thoughtfulness behind them. A handmade scarf, a heartfelt letter, or simply the gift of time – all these carry more value than gold. How uplifting it would be if people prioritized what truly matters: love, compassion, and the joy of giving.”