Ways to cool off at home this summer
While thousands of people load the kids into the car and set off on summer adventures around Christmas, others prefer to stay at home. After all, if you live somewhere balmy and warm, why escape to somewhere that may not be as nice? You can avoid traffic, spending money, and the holiday crowds.
Therefore, equally as many people prefer to dust off the sun umbrella at home, wipe the cobwebs off of the patio furniture, and bask in the rays of their own property. The problem is, you can only enjoy that sunshine for so long until you’re gasping for shade and cloud cover.
While spending your summer holidays at home is an excellent idea for your sanity and wallet, how are you supposed to cool off when New Zealand turns up the heat to an unbearable level? Read on to find out.
Plant more trees
New Zealand loves trees. We love them that much that we’ve even got a tree-planting mission. If you think your yard is severely lacking on the tree front, then what’s stopping you from planting some?
Not only can they prevent soil erosion, provide oxygen, and enhance the appeal of your yard, but they can also offer much-needed shelter in the heat of the summer months. It’s worth checking in with your local lawn care expert to see what you should plant, how to care for it, and which species will likely offer the most significant benefits.
You might be thinking that planting trees is all well and good for the future, but what if you need shelter now? Tree saplings are a popular option, but they aren’t the only option. There are plenty of tree businesses in New Zealand that offer established trees for effortless installation into your landscape.
Shady entertainment areas
Reading a book and relaxing with a beverage in the sunshine is a favourite pastime of many, but it’s not sustainable with damaging UV rays literally breathing down your neck. While you could (and should) lather on the sunscreen, not all available products will measure up for long-term sunbathing.
If you already have an entertainment area, consider flexing those DIY muscles to bring some much-needed shade components into it. Add a shade sail, a roof section (may be subject to council permits), or add plant-life that adds a barrier between you and the intense rays. There are some simple solutions out there, but you have to be willing to look for them.
Water features and fun
Nothing says serene oasis better than a water feature in your backyard. You can be relaxing with a book, listening to the gentle babble of water on rocks in the background. A water feature can offer the illusion of a cool environment while also balancing out your Christmas-related stresses. Talk to your local gardening or landscaping expert about your options.
If you want something a little less permanent, then have you thought about a swimming pool? Easy-erect swimming pools are available from most large retailers in New Zealand and tend to be priced to sell as summer heats up. Don’t forget to purchase a pump, pool cleaning chemicals, and a cover. Even more importantly, practice water safety with the kids to keep everyone safe.
Those who don’t have a pool, or have space for one can also keep cool with water balloons, water guns, water slides, and general water fights. Don’t forget to check your local council’s website to see if any water restrictions are in place before you haul the hose out.
Icy delights
If the kids have had a blast in the backyard with swimming and water fights, then the natural next step is a cold treat. Make homemade ice blocks with fruit and fruit juice, or pop to the local dairy to see what they have hidden in the depths of their desserts freezer. Nothing says summer in New Zealand like sticky chins from dripping popsicles in the sunshine.
Easy fruit ice blocks
Get the kids involved in the creation of their own ice blocks while also curbing that summertime holiday boredom.
You will need:
410g can of Wattie’s Peaches Sliced in Light Syrup (drained)
425g can of Golden Circle Pineapple Crushed in Juice
zest of an orange
Place the contents of both cans into a food processor with the zest. Blend until smooth, then pour into ice block moulds. Place in the freezer until firm.
See the full recipe here.
Cooling off at home this summer made easy
Christmas can be a stressful time of year, especially as the rising mercury puts pressure on families to travel. There is no reason why your own home can’t become your holiday destination. Cool off in comfort with trees, a revitalised entertainment area, and plenty of fun games and sweet treats for the kids.