FLYING SOLO
Accommodation under $99
February is the month of sunny weather and weekends away — but as a party of one, you can’t split the cost of accommodation. So how about a Tutukaka hilltop escape with ocean views, a hot bush shower and a purring cat — all for just $70 a night? La Cabane at Huia Hut is an abode-forone, just 10 minutes on foot from Wellingtons Bay beach. It’s run by a family of four and guests are welcome to enjoy the privacy or join their new whānau for a drink. Volunteer three hours of your time for weed whacking and your second night is free. airbnb.co.nz/rooms/10215774
Single strides
Hikes are the perfect one-person activity but with our gnarly bush and unpredictable weather, don't go alone. If a hiking group isn’t your thing, consider a sculpture walk. Held every second summer, Sculpture in the Gardens features at Auckland Botanic Gardens until April 3 (aucklandbotanicgardens.co.nz). A 1.5km sculpture trail showcases the skills of 20 Kiwi artists, entry is free, dogs are welcome and the grounds stay open until 8pm. Alternatively, don't miss Auckland's limited-time Whale Tale Arts Trails in the city centre. With 80 sculptures (and 80 more in mid-March) dotting streets, suburbs and green spaces until April 18, it's an enjoyable meander for the independent walker. Keep your eyes peeled or download a trail map from whaletales2022.org
One-person workshops
Valentine’s Day is a nice reminder that solo activities are just as easy to come by
Dropping in for a late-night drawing session at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is ideal for solo socialites. Until December, Drop-in Drawing classes will see artist and observational drawing tutor, Abbey Lyman guide a 90-minute life drawing session from 6.30-8pm every Friday. Free entry and materials provided. aucklandartgallery.com
Dinner for one
Pack a hamper and head to the beach, or if you’re after company, picnic in Tāwharanui Regional Park with Habitat Tours. Join your guide for a pre-dusk picnic before venturing into the forest for a wildlife encounter. Tours are limited to seven, allowing for easy small talk and a safe environment for nondisruptive kiwi spotting. habitattours.co.nz