7 things to do with your friends (that don't include drinking)

The drinking culture and pressure to drink alcohol is incredible - especially here in New Zealand.

It's almost always "let's catch up for a drink" or "come on - have another drink!"

Nights out and social catch ups are centralised around drinking alcohol.

It's more damaging than you might think...

However - this article is not going to focus on the negative effects from consuming alcohol but rather, ways you can have fun and socialise that don't include drinking!

So let's get into it shall we.

HIKING

There are soooo many benefits to going hiking with your friends!

Getting those steps in

Fresh air and movement

Great for your mental health

Opportunity to take cute pics

Get some Vitamin D

Explore your home or somewhere new

No hangover

Note: make sure you don't hike alone and wear appropriate footwear & clothing.

MOVIE NIGHT

Make the lounge your comfy home cinema or go to the movies!

CBS loves a home movie night with friends!

Make some semi-healthy, macro friendly snacks, grab an excess amount of blankets and cushions, light some candles and activate chill mode. Bonus: no dress code.

And no hangover.

Tip: try hosting at a different friends place each time and try BYO snacks to save money or stay on track nutritionally.

SPA DAY/NIGHT

If you're feeling boujee, head to the spa. Or make a spa at home!

Such a great idea for girls nights, birthdays, catch ups or team building. Head to the spa for a facial, pedicure, manicure or massage. You'll leave feeling refreshed and calm.

Or bring the spa to you and grab face masks, hair masks, exfoliating gloves, nail polish, cucumbers and all the goodies to make a home spa. The bonus with a home spa? Save money!

And no hangover.

TRAINING SESSION

Go to the gym together and get two things done at once!

It's more fun than you might think. It's true!

You can spot each other, try new exercises, try a whole new gym or give a class a try. You'll be a step closer to your goals, ticked off one of your weekly workouts AND caught up

And no hangover.

Tip: you can try a new gym or go to their local. Even a fitness class can be fun and always less intimidating with a friend.

ROCK CLIMBING

This is fun AND a workout!

This will definitely test your fitness and fear of heights. But is also super fun. Start on the beginner walls and you'll be feeling more confident in no time! And don't you love trying something new!

Oh, and no hangover.

Note: try a different place each time and find your favourite!

HIGH TEA

Get dressed up with the gals and sip some tea like a Queen!

No alcohol needed for this one!

Just some scones, club sandwiches, macarons and tea. Put on a cute outfit and take the girls out to high tea. And really feel like a Queen.

And no hangover.

Tip: you can do this for birthdays, hens nights, mothers day, reunions, etc.

TENPIN BOWLING

It's cliche but it's a good time - and you know it!

Bowling is always fun. And really competitive. There's usually a few options in each town/city and pretty inexpensive. It also doesn't matter the weather! You can go anytime. Get your bowling shoes on and hit a strike! And of course, no hangover.

Note: Again you can go bowling with almost anyone! And most bowling alleys will have food and non alcoholic beverages.

What are your favourite ways to enjoy spending time with friends that DON'T include drinking?

You do NOT have to drink to have a good time.

Disclaimer: if your friends are pressuring you to drink, you could probably do with better friends.

Leave your comments and ideas below - and thanks for being here x