Auckland weather

Underground labyrinths and underrated food destinations are among the destinations that shine when the sun doesn't.

If that sounds a bit fancy (or expensive) for you, try the restaurant’s younger sibling [Little Aosta](https://www.littleaosta.co.nz/). [Dirty Burger](https://www.dirtyburger.nz/), where the more creative offerings include the “ghee spot” with a masala rosti patty and curry mayo. [Xcape](https://www.xcape.nz/), which offers traditional and virtual reality “escape room” experiences, and boutique [Light House Cinema](http://www.lighthousecinema.co.nz/). If you have kids in tow, indoor super-playground [Junglerama](https://www.junglerama.co.nz/) is a good option. [Wholy Mac](https://www.wholymac.nz/), where you can tuck into imaginative takes on the comfort food classic, including plant-based and gluten-free versions. [weather warnings were in place](https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/weather-news/129778916/northlanders-nervous-amid-warnings-of-heavy-rain-and-100kph-gales) nationwide. [Aosta](https://www.aosta.nz/), where northern Italian dishes partner perfectly with New Zealand ingredients. Think a spicy southern states-style macaroni and cheese bowl with fried chicken and chipotle sauce, and “mac a phoni” with kasundi, spinach and roasted chickpeas. If you’re a fair weather traveller, it might seem sensible to steer clear of a town just up the road from a place called Cape Foulwind on the often frigid West Coast. The second you switch your winter duvet for a lightweight version in the so-called New Zealand springtime, the bad weather comes back. Some destinations are actually at their best when lashed with rain, hail and snow. With a vengeance.