In these times, everybody’s wanting to save a bit of money, but still connect and of course have a good time. The grand-and-glorious dates have their place, but mostly you just want to get out, have a laugh and not go into overdraft. I’ve put together 10 creative-yet-non-cheesey date night ideas on a budget to get your ideas flowing for a fun time that won’t break the bank.
Fish n Chips at a Mystery Beach
Cut up paper into pieces and write all the items on a fish n chips shop menu on pieces of paper, and then write down a few beaches or mountains you have both never been to. Put the food and locations paper pieces into a hat and close your eyes and draw out a place name and what you are going to be eating for dinner.
Go to a Free Movie In a Park
Free movies in parks is a cool phenomenon around the world, and Silo Park on the waterfront at Wynyard Quarter in Auckland shows popular movies projected onto the concrete towers in summertime, so grab a blanket and head down for a romantic evening under the stars. There are food trucks there and you can also take your own picnic along.
Catch a Ferry
Doing something out of your comfort zone and normal routine, is always memorable. Why not go someplace by public transport – and what’s more charming than a boat trip on the harbour? It gets even cheaper if you use a transport concession card (the HOP card makes Devonport ferry $10 instead of $15.)
Cook a Meal at Home
There’s nothing sexier than being cooked a meal by someone. If you’re not sure how to get started and lack a bit of culinary confidence in the kitchen department, maybe start with easy recipes and then you can relax and enjoy the evening without stress.
Play Miniputt
I know what you’re thinking, I said non-cheesey dates, but mini golf is guaranteed to make you smile, plus there are the contemporary arcade style mini golf arenas now that come complete with bars serving cocktails and snacks for adult mini golfers. I do like the classic miniputts though; old chipped concrete statues and themed funny holes and you can dress up in your best plaid golfing attire.
Home Movie night watching Films with Popcorn
Whether you’re into subscription movies or your own DVD collection, there’s nothing like snuggling up on the couch and settling in with your significant other with popcorn and a rug to watch your favourite film, or take a pick from a best movies list and watch something new.
Visit Art Galleries
There’s absolutely nothing like getting engrossed in art for a romantic date, and there’s something for every taste. I like heading in to the Auckland Art Gallery on Lorne Street to look at the galleries, and sometimes the ticketed exhibitions as they’re always so excellent. The gallery is a fave date spot and it gives you something to chat about on a first date or a thousandth date, plus on rainy days it’s warm and dry.
Art galleries always have great cafes too so you can grab a coffee and bite to eat, and browse the gift shop for an arty souvenir.
Sunrise- Sunset Date
For a sunrise-sunset date, you need to have the whole day free. Basically, you research what exact time the sun will rise and set and where the handy places are to see it. On the day, rise early with the birds and travel to watch the sunrise. You could even do some yoga or just eat almond croissants; whatever is your bag really. Then, undertake on do a mini road trip to watch the sun drop beneath the horizon at another location. You have spent the whole day together, dawn to dusk. Spesh!
Picnic in the Park
Yes it’s a bit of a cliche, but FOR A REASON: the classic picnic date is a tried and true icon that’s been passed down for generations and will not be over anytime soon. Firstly, you have the preparation involved: people feel appreciated when you have gone to the trouble of preparing a meal for them and packing it and getting blankets and baskets ready. Secondly, it’s at a romantic location such as a beach or a park or a mountain top, so you’re already in a relaxing setting. Thirdly, you’re alone, with no interruptions of technology and people, just the two of you and your blanket. Bliss.
Chasing Waterfalls
Completely free of charge and good for your body to boot, going on a day hike is a brilliant date and there’s nothing like walking to a waterfall for natural beauty and a refreshing cool off of water spray upon arrival. You can pack swimwear too and have a dip in the waterfall pool. Look up your local council website for day walks and tips on packing properly and safely for day hikes.
Well there we have it, lots of ideas for creative, romantic dates. Whether you’re into the great outdoors or snuggling on a couch, there’s something for you, and these dates won’t have you dipping into your rainy day fund.
Words and photos, Megan Robinson
21st September 2020