We may have had what felt like two days of sunshine in Auckland this summer, and now Autumn has well and truly arrived, but don't let the weather get you down! We've rounded up 10 of the best ways to distract yourself from the rain, and help get your sunny personality back, so grab that umbrella and head to Newmarket this weekend.

1. Grab a book

Theres nothing quite like escaping into a good book. Whether its a love story, a thriller, a comic or an auto-biography, your mind can escape for a few minutes (or a few hours). We love spending time in one of Newmarket's bookstores, hunting for a hidden gem, or getting our hands on a popular new release.

2. Take a dip

Swimming isn't limited to hot sunny days, a few laps of The Olympic Pools, followed by a soak in the hot tub or sweat in the sauna is a perfect rainy day activity.

3. Zen out with a massage

Booking yourself in for a 30 minute massage is one of the best forms of self care. It doesn't have to be a full day at the spa, (but if it is, we are coming too!) so why not try a quick foot massage, or simply a neck and shoulder massage to get rid of those tense shoulders that are creeping up around your ears. You are bound to feel like your floating as you leave and all your worries will be off the radar.

4. Make something delicious!

Grabbing the ingredients from your local markets and supermarkets, and heading home to make a delicious meal or treat is the perfect distraction. Filling your tummy or feeding your soul is always a good idea, we have a selection of delicious recipes here, or grab a cookbook for inspiration. Newmarket is home to many asian speciality stores, as well as New World on Nuffield Street and Countdown in Westfield Newmarket, stacked with fresh produce and everything you need to tick all those ingredients off the shopping list.

5. Visit a Gallery

Taking some time to view some of the incredible art in the incredible galleries around Newmarket is sure to bring some inspiration. If you are looking for a new piece for the home, or just browsing, the galleries in Newmarket offer a vast collection of incredible works to fall in love with.

Job Klijn at ArtSelect Gallery

6. Get a manicure

Visit one of the best places to get a fresh manicure and leave with glossy, perfectly polished, tips. From the latest in manicure trends, to nail art, or just a simple shape and polish, a shiny mani is a great excuse to get out of the house and ticks that self care box at the same time.

7. Play on

Get your inner child out and play some games. Being inside Archie Brothers or Timezone with it's neon lights and bright atmosphere is a great way to bring out a smile, try hitting the arcade in the hopes of winning a giant plush toy, racing around the dodgems or challenging a friend to a game of ten pin bowling is the perfect way to spend an afternoon.

8. Try something new

If you haven't already tried a Matcha cake, Purple Rice Yoghurt, Tumeric Latte or Ube Croissant, use this time to try something new and take your taste buds on an adventure.

9. Freshen up the home

Rearranging a room or adding a couple of new pieces can completely transform a space. Why not try adding a new rug, a special vase or a statement piece for the wall. If you are looking for a big change, a new sofa, dining table or arm chair is a great option too. There are many places with great homeware options in Newmarket

10. Feel the burn

Whether it's a gentle slow yoga session, a muscle trembling reformer pilates class, or hitting the bags at Boxing, burning off some energy (or frustration) is a great way to get you out of a funk, and into a refreshed state of mind. There are amazing classes on offer throughout the precinct, so why not get those muscles moving and restore your inner zen!

For more info on Newmarket Gym's, click here.