Every summer, students travel far and wide across the motu for the break. Critic Te Ārohi staff members reached out to local secrets from their own hometowns to score student discounts*. Your mission: explore your backyard this summer and enjoy these discounts on us. Record your journey in the most creative way possible enjoying at least five of these hidden gems – whether a video compilation, article, or photo series – to be in to win a prize pack of Critic merch, a $50 New World voucher, and space on Critic’s socials or in the mag to share your adventures.
Catlins – Peake’s Kitchen and Papatowai Country Store
Nestled in the secluded paradise of the Catlins lies Peake’s Kitchen and Papatowai Country Store, a must-visit on your summer roadie south. The gourmet Kiwiana haven promises sweet treats, “Big Granddad” deep dish pies, and award-winning burgers; or a quick camping trip supply run. Peake’s is offering students 15% off one meal from their menu (limited one discounted menu item per coupon), code word “CRITIC”.
Ōtepoti – Orokonui Ecosanctuary
For those staying in Dunedin this summer to soak up the St Clair rays and relish in the abundance of free parking spots, Orokonui Ecosanctuary offers the perfect opportunity to get amongst nature. A community-led, not-for-profit conservation project, Te Korowai o Mihiwaka manages 307 hectares of predator-free Coastal Otago forest – home to rare and endangered native species. Orokonui is offering $10 visits to students with the code “CRITIC” ($20.80 is the regular student price).
Oamaru – Steampunk HQ
If you’re heading north this summer, make a pit stop in Ōamaru, the coastal town where Victoriana meets Mad Max. Housed in a hulking 19th-century warehouse, Steampunk HQ is a surreal art playground packed with welded contraptions, flickering lights, and post-apocalyptic imagination run wild. This summer, students get 50% off entry with the code word “CRITIC”. Perfect for when you need to escape reality – or at least Dunedin – for a day.
Ōtautahi – The Lily Pot
Whether you’re a plant parent, wannabe horticulturalist, or serial indoor fern killer, The Lily Pot in Ōtautahi has something to feed your leafy addiction. This boutique plant nursery and garden store is a green oasis for a last minute Christmas present for mum on the trip north, or picking up a plant baby to furnish your flat in the new year. Students get 15% off with the code word “SCARFIE”.
Māwhera – The Regent Theatre
Caught in the rain on the West Coast? Classic. Luckily, Greymouth’s Regent Theatre has you covered, an Art Deco gem that’s been keeping locals entertained since before Netflix was even a glimmer in a tech bro’s eye. The Regent is offering 10% off standard adult and student movie tickets with the code word “CRITIC” (deal excludes already discounted screenings). Support local screens, escape the drizzle, and revel in the small-town movie magic.
Te whanganui-a-Tara – Real Surf
If the Welly weather is too good to pass up when you disembark from the ferry – because you really can’t beat it on a good day – Real Surf has the deal for you! Situated in Lyall Bay, Real Surf has everything you need to catch a few waves (or wipe out trying), offering a free 2-hour surfboard and wetsuit rental voucher with the code word “CRITIC” (one per person).
Rotorua – Canopy Tours
Swap lecture halls for treetops this summer and see Rotorua from a whole new perspective. Rotorua Canopy Tours offers an adrenaline-fuelled adventure gliding through native forest on ziplines. Perfect for a weekend escape, or just to prove to your flatmates that you’re outdoorsy. Students get 15% off with the code “RTCCRITIC.”
Rotorua – Waikite Gym
Summer in Rotovegas doesn’t have to be all geysers and gelato. If you’re sick of overheating in the sun, Waikite Gym has you covered – fully equipped, friendly, and air-conditioned, making it easy for Otago students to stay fit on the road. Score a $25 membership with your Otago student ID, or $15 per week.
Ngāmotu – Three Sisters Brewery
Taranaki’s Three Sisters Brewery is home to the most Kiwi of craft beer – from the ‘Sup Bro? Hazy’ to the ‘Southland IPA’. If you find yourself drawn to the West Coast of Te Ika-a-Māui by Taranaki Maunga or the promise of some of NZ’s best surf beaches, finish up the day with a locally brewed pint of ‘Banana Smoothie Sour’ or ‘Blueberry Fruitquake’. Three Sisters are offering students 20% off with the code ‘CRITIC’.
Ngatea – Mahana Oasis
Mahana Oasis is a well-deserved treat to celebrate the end of the academic year. Describing themselves as a “little pocket of warm reprieve in the heart of the Hauraki Plains”, Mahana provides private sauna sessions to rest, rejuvenate and recharge. They’re offering students a 30% discount to sweat out the stress of exams, followed by a cold plunge.
Tāmaki Makaurau – Whammy, Double Whammy & Public Bar
Whammy, Double Whammy, and Public Bar are the power trio of K Road, making up a complex of bars and band venues perfect for the summer break. They’re not just another spot to sip your flat-white or cocktail – it’s a neon-lit playground where the drinks are strong and the music is loud. Use the code word “CRITIC” at any to receive a special gift. What will it be? That’s a secret only they can tell.
*All discounts are valid from November 10th 2025 until February 22nd 2026. Terms and conditions apply.