Autumn and Winter Essentials
The weather has made the transition to cool, wet weather as we enter Autumn (and yes - it is AUTUMN, not fall here!) I’ve learned over these past few years that there are some clothing essentials for living in New Zealand, and I’ve slowly built up my Auckland appropriate wardrobe over time. I did a similar list back in 2019 but thought it was appropriate to update with 2021 options. Here’s what I’ve got :
Black puffer vest - Layering is so important in Auckland, and a good puffer vest is perfect for those in-between days. I’m still a fan of this one from Macpac Zodiac Down Hooded vest. It frequently goes on sale, so it pays to wait for the price to come down.
Black puffer jacket and/or coat - In previous years I’ve just had a thigh-length long coat, but this year I decided it was time to add in a shorter jacket. Could you do with just a jacket or a coat? Absolutely. But I’ve found that I get enough wear out of my black puffer items to justify the diversity (though my husband might not agree!) My new jacket is the Lululemon Push Your Pace jacket and my North Face coat from 2017 has been a great investment. The current version of this coat is the Stretch Down Parka.
Rain jacket - I’m still wearing my Gore-Tex raincoat purchased from Kathmandu a few years ago. This is the one item that if I had to do over again, I would probably pick in a different colour. Raincoats are one of the few outerwear items that seem to be okay in something slightly more colourful. With that being said, I never worry about this jacket because it is black, and there’s something to be said with wet weather gear being easy.
Umbrella - Our Blunt umbrellas are going strong three years into their life. I don’t think I’ve ever had an umbrella last this long without self destructing on me, so I’m a fan.
Gum boots/wellies - More specifically, ankle gumboots. I’ve got my big, tall Hunter boots, but they are overkill 99% of the time. A good ankle boot, like these from Marlo, are perfect for everyday wear.
Leather shoe protector - Kiwis take their shoes seriously, and a good leather shoe protector makes a huge difference keeping shoes looking good in all of the rain. I use this stuff from Merchant, but there are a million options out there. Side note: it is necessary to use the protector regularly - not just once - to maintain my shoes.
Merino singlets - I recently got into an animated discussion about the Kiwi obsession with merino under layers, and I’ve been told in no uncertain terms that this is the key to staying warm during the windy winter months. I’m giving it a try this year with merino singlets (aka a camisole or tank top) from Icebreaker.
One of the hardest things about transitioning to autumn and winter in New Zealand is that it feels so wrong for the days to get shorter and colder in April. Mentally, the flip-flopped seasons really get to me, and I’m not used to it AT ALL. I keep thinking that it will feel normal at some point, but no. It feels all out of place still. I want to be out shopping for cute sundresses and sandals, but instead it’s all sweaters and coats.
