Four of the best ice experiences

Penguin chicks at Kelly Tarlton's in Auckland. Photo / NZH

1. Kelly Tarlton's

Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium has New Zealand's only colony of Antarctic penguins, part of the Antarctic Ice Adventure. See the magnificent birds up close in a walk-through encounter with king and gentoo penguins swooping through the sea water. The colony is one of the most successful breeding programmes.

2. Auckland Zoo

The zoo is home to a sub-antarctic fur seal (Arctocephalus tropicalis) called Orua. He was unable to survive in the wild, so now lives with the other seals and sea lions. His contemporaries are more usually found in the Macquarie, Heard, Kerguelen and Prince Edward Islands. His sub-antarctic island buddy is the endangered Campbell Island teal (Anas nesiotis), a flightless bird. Spot them in the Islands habitat in Te Wao Nui.

3. Snow Planet

Pretend that we have snow all year on Snow Planet's 200m-long slope (with a terrain park and jumps). You can luxuriate in night lights and an alpine-themed restaurant.

4. Paradice ice rinks

With skating rinks at Avondale and Botany Downs, get your ice fix from east to west. Session times vary by holidays and rink. Hire gear and join skate classes from beginner to advanced, and any age from tots to gold card oldies.