The 50 best picnic spots in Auckland

Cornwall Park • Cornwall Park is a large park (about 172 hectares / 425 acres) in Epsom, Auckland.  • It’s open to the public and managed by the Cornwall Park Trust.  • The park surrounds Maungakiekie / One Tree Hill, which has a volcanic cone and is historically and culturally significant.  • It was gifted to New Zealand by Sir John Logan Campbell in 1901, with the vision that it be free and accessible for everyone.  ⸻ Main Attractions & Things to See Here are some highlights you might enjoy: • One Tree Hill / Maungakiekie — climb up for views overlooking Auckland. The obelisk at the summit marks Sir John Logan Campbell’s burial site.  • Working Farm — you’ll find sheep and cattle grazing. There are more animals during lambing/calving season.  • Heritage Buildings — Acacia Cottage (from 1841), Huia Lodge Discovery Hub, etc., which give a sense of history and architecture.  • Trails & Tree Walks — many paths and drives, including “Tree Trail” where you can discover a variety of trees, gardens, and shaded walkways.  • Gardens & Views — flower beds, specimen trees, landscaped gardens, and great views especially looking over the park and out towards city/harbour.  • Picnics & BBQs — spots available for gatherings; free BBQs (gas and wood) with guidelines.  ⸻ Facilities & Visitor Info • Opening hours: Gates are open from 7:00 AM to dusk daily.  • Visitor & Information Centre: Huia Lodge Discovery Hub is open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (except some holidays).  • Food / Cafés: There are three eateries on-site: Cornwall Park Bistro, Cornwall Park Cafe, and The Creamery.  • Access & Entrances: • Main entrances include Green Lane West, Kenneth Myers Gate off Manukau Road, plus other pedestrian entrances.  • Vehicle access: some roads allow cars but there are restrictions (one-way, etc.) to protect tranquility.  • Rules & Etiquette: • Dogs must be leashed at all times. During lambing/calving season, certain areas are off-limits to dogs.  • The park is heritage land; certain activities such as commercial tours or events may need permission.  ⸻ How to Get There • Location: Epsom / One Tree Hill area, not far from central Auckland.  • By car: Using Green Lane West is common; Kenneth Myers Gate is another vehicle access point.  • Public transport: There are several local buses that service nearby roads. Walking into the park from entrances works nicely. 

It is a big and beautiful place to walk, relax, and enjoy nature. There are lots of trees, open fields, and animals like sheep. You can walk up to One Tree Hill for a great view of Auckland. It’s a peaceful spot for a picnic or a nice day out.

Here’s a more personal and natural version of your Cornwall Park review: ⸻ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Had a wonderful time at Cornwall Park! It’s such a peaceful and beautiful place to relax and enjoy nature. The walking paths are lovely, and there’s plenty of open space for kids to play and families to picnic. The view from One Tree Hill is amazing too. The park is very clean and well-kept — definitely one of my favourite spots in Auckland!

Cornwall Park looks absolutely stunning during cherry blossom season! The trees are full of delicate pink blooms, and it’s such a peaceful, scenic place to walk around or take photos. However, it can get very crowded on weekends with lots of people doing photoshoots. I’d suggest visiting on a weekday or early morning if you want a quieter experience and better photos. Definitely worth the visit!

Auckland’s unique working farm city park open to all and gifted to the people by a true visionary. Thank you Sir John Logan Campbell! Gifting 230 acres in 1901 was no small thing and today we get to enjoy it. A park estate like somewhere in England, amazing trees, Kauri mini forest, stainless steel BBQ areas with bins and toilets close to parking. Amazing cottage and bistro buildings plus walkways everywhere. Go and treat yourself and come for the soo pop ring blossom if you can.

A sanctuary in the middle of Auckland, I live close by and able to take daily walks, via a side entrance. A beautiful place with Cherry blossoms in spring, plenty of walks, BBQ and lots of picnic spots. Lots of space so even when's its busy, it never feels crowded The Visionary and founder of Cornwall Park - Sir John Campbell gifted to NZ in 1901 along with lands to fund the upkeep. Monuments can be found around the park and are a beautiful testament, with lots of information on a man that respected the land and the History of the indigenous people of the area

We spent several hours walking around the park, taking pictures of the roaming sheep and even had the pleasure of watching a working dog help to herd some of them from one field to another. Plenty of shaded places to walk and benches along the way to take a rest.

Went to the winter garden through Lover’s track. Best to see when it’s summer so that you can find more vibrant flowers. You could visit the museum too, it costs $32 for intl visitor

Hill top locations cannot be beaten for an early morning visit with the world still asleep. What an amazing park for young and old and sights to explore here in Auckland. Play cricket, kick a ball, picnic with friends and family and enjoy the views. Or get a taste of culture inside the museum and stop for a moment of reflection and remember what this place is meant to keep us aware of. Abd yes, it’s not the Louvre, but the views and the available parking to enjoy the Domain are definitely in favour of this place. Though don’t come by car in the high season, parking can get tricky then.

One of the best views in Auckland. Majestic building. As well as our Museum it holds exhibitions like the Diva one on presently. A great place to visit.

Went to the winter garden. It is spring now and it looks like everything was in bloom. Very beautiful!

We enjoyed our visit but there were several areas/exhibits closed which was disappointing. The place was like a rabbit warren and we had trouble working out where we were. We wandered through an open door trying to find the toilets. As we were leaving a staff member questioned if we had a ticket for the paid performance. She was polite but it put us off - the door had been wide open and there was no staff member on the door. Apparently it was in an area for a paid performance. ??

Peaceful spot to unwind and relax. Especially the green house is a must see 🌸

Wonderful park , with bush walks, open spaces and sports grounds , home to many different events , music concerts , polo and many more . Beautiful wintergardens with two great glasshouses and ever changing flower displays. The amazing building that is the Auckland War Memorial Museum , duckponds and a cafe and function facility.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A peaceful, spacious retreat with unbeatable harbour views — Coyle Park is a local treasure Coyle Park is one of those places that quietly impresses you the moment you arrive. Tucked away at the end of Point Chevalier Road, this nearly 5-hectare green space is a true gem in Tāmaki Makaurau — isolated, serene, and deeply loved by locals. You don’t just stumble upon it while driving through Auckland. You come here with purpose: maybe you live nearby, maybe you’re visiting someone, or maybe you’ve discovered this peaceful corner and made it your go-to for walks, playtime, or quiet reflection. The park itself is beautifully laid out, with grassy open spaces, mature trees, and dramatic cliff faces that offer stunning views across the Waitematā Harbour. On a clear day, you can spot the Sky Tower and Auckland Harbour Bridge in the distance — a reminder that while Point Chevalier feels far removed from the city’s bustle, it’s still wonderfully connected. One of the standout features is the rock shelf exposed at low tide, which adds a rugged, natural charm to the coastline. Several well-maintained paths lead down to Point Chevalier Beach, which is best enjoyed at mid to high tide if you’re planning to swim. The beach is tidal and quiet — far less crowded than eastern beaches like Mission Bay or Browns Bay. You’ll mostly see locals here, and that’s part of what makes it special. The playground is a hit with families, especially older children who love the flying fox and space net. It’s well-equipped and safely tucked into the park’s layout, making it easy for parents to relax while kids explore. The park also has good access to toilets, and the paths are well-connected, though some are steep and include steps — something to keep in mind if you’re bringing a stroller or bike. There’s a car park and bus stop conveniently located at the park entrance, making it accessible even if you’re not driving. And while it’s a public space, it’s worth noting a few things: Dogs must be on leash unless otherwise stated. Alcohol is banned in some areas — check the local maps. Smokefree policy applies throughout the park. No outdoor fires are allowed, and rubbish should be taken with you if bins aren’t available. What I love most about Coyle Park is its local character. You won’t find crowds of tourists or noisy traffic. You’ll find families, dog walkers, joggers, and neighbours enjoying their own slice of paradise. It’s a place that feels lived-in and loved — not commercial, not flashy, just quietly beautiful. Whether you’re here for a walk, a picnic, a beach visit, or just to breathe in the fresh harbour air, Coyle Park delivers. I’ll definitely be back — and I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a peaceful escape within Auckland.

An open and wide park with amazing view: Sky Tower, Harbour Bridge, green and water. Walking tracks, playground, toilet and changing room, tables and chairs. We visited on a sunny weekday but the car park was already full at 10am.

Coyle Park is an absolute gem and a perfect spot to embrace the beauty of nature, whether you're starting your day or winding it down. It's my go-to for a refreshing morning walk or an energizing jog, with stunning coastal views that make every step a pleasure. The park truly comes alive during sunrise and sunset, offering breathtaking vistas that paint the sky in incredible colors. It's a fantastic place to simply sit, relax, and soak in the serene atmosphere. It's also a wonderfully social spot where you'll often meet friendly people, adding to the warm and welcoming community feel. For those who enjoy casting a line, the park offers some great fishing opportunities. And here's a pro tip: grab a coffee from one of the lovely nearby cafes to sip on while you walk. It's the perfect way to complete a truly great morning. Whether you're looking for exercise, tranquility, a bit of fishing, or just a beautiful view, Coyle Park has it all. Highly recommended for anyone wanting to enjoy the outdoors.

A beautiful and peaceful spot in Point Chevalier with amazing sea views and plenty of open space for picnics, walks, or just relaxing. It’s perfect for families — there’s a great playground for kids, lots of trees for shade, and the beach is nearby too. The sunsets here are absolutely stunning! A lovely place to spend a quiet afternoon or weekend with friends and family.

Grew up going to Coyle Park as a child...had large family gatherings on the park. It's awesome how people have worked to make it a playground for children..a beautiful walking track..(that needs to be a wider path). Maori carvings are a Must at places around Aotearoa to tell the story of the area. Best place to go swimming in the Western Auckland area ( when the tide is in)..Golden sand (until the tide goes out)..Very safe for children to swim. Please don't think out the trees any farther..I remember the beautiful trees surrounding the park..I was surprised at how many aren't there anymore. Understand it's great scenery but please always replace those beautiful old trees especially with our Native ones. Love Coyle Park ..so many wonderful memories here..hope families go on to make many more!

Great park with lots of space and equipment for kids to play on. Good - spacious, lots of greens, trees and shade, it’s close to the beach and there are cafes close by. Bathrooms and changing rooms are also available which is good. You can get to the beach and some nice fishing spots through the north end of the park. Bad - parking, while free, is very hard to find in a busy weekend. Equipment is getting very dated, Could do with an update. Great place to picnic and relax!

It's a great park, and quite big. There is a big playground, and lots for the children to do. There are 2 issues which made the day less enjoyable. The carpark is very small. Many people had to park 1 or 2 kms away, and walk back. Many parked on yellow lines, because it is so small and limited. Access to the beach is very difficult. If you're young and lithe, then it's no problem. There is a narrow winding staircase with no railing. On the other side are steep ramps covered in sand, which makes it very slippery, or a lot of steps, again without a railing. Otherwise it's a beautifully kept park, with amazing sea and city views, and lovely big old trees.

This the west end of the foreshore heritage walk, a 5km pleasant trail. I started from the middle of the trail, point 13 to the east, then back to the west. It took me 3-4 hours in total. It’s an amazing way to learn Auckland

The Dove Myer Robinson Rose Garden is a true hidden gem in the heart of Auckland. It’s peaceful, beautifully maintained, and full of vibrant roses that bloom almost year-round. The scent in spring and summer is incredible — perfect for a quiet stroll, photography, or just sitting under the trees to relax. The view over Judges Bay and the harbour adds a special touch, especially at sunset. There’s plenty of open space for picnics, and it’s only a short walk from Parnell Village and the Parnell Baths. A great spot for nature lovers, couples, and anyone looking for a little calm in the city.

An absolutely beautiful and amazing place in Auckland CBD, the "Parnell Rose Gardens" are a wonderful place to go to beauty, relaxation, nature, peace, serenity and a break away from the fas paced world around you.

A nice small garden to walk around. The roses were in full bloom when I visited in October. It’s very quiet.

Fantastic garden and picnic area but with limited parking. Check ahead for events and enjoy on sunny days. Walking distance from several bus stops. Overlooking Judges Bay. Consider footware, and several steep slopes down to sea level (Judges Bay). 16 November 2025- Roses in full bloom. Worth a visit. Restrooms on site.

Nice place to visit! Most varieties of roses can be seen here. On November 9th, they celebrate the Parnell Rose Festival in this park. Various kinds of roses are in full bloom, and the place becomes very crowded and full of joyful activities that day.

It's beautiful. So many rose varieties at a single location. It is simply amazing. A must go place during the rose blooming time.

One of my favourite places on Earth. A lovely long linear regional park with a fun playground for kids, picnic areas, a beautiful beach, an old homestead and a gorgeous coastal walkway.

Great place for family and walking. Dogs only allowed on the beach at certain times and not anywhere else including in cars or the picnic areas.

We love this beach. The water is clear. Plenty of car parks. There is a play ground and restrooms. The small village of Long Bay is beautiful. There are restaurants and a supermarket.

An amazing park, well looked after and offering a great walk, swim, with fantastic views 🤩 Also, I left my prescriptions glasses at Granny’s beach and the park rangers took me back all the way. Thanks again 🙏🏼

Such a beautiful place, amazing beach walk.

Lovely long stretch of beach to have a relaxing walk with fresh sea air

Fantastic, vast beachside park with clean toilets and changing area, drinking fountains, water spouts, grassy slopes, plenty of shade, and the sound of waves and birds for a perfect afternoon nap! I waited here before a night kayaking tour in bioluminescent waters, thanks to Canoe and Kayak, Auckland! Lots of ducks and other birds around, and they know people have crumbs. If you're going to feed them, keep it healthy for them! I had some unsalted sunflower seeds with me.

A easy walk to a beautiful view. Took around 15-20 minutes to walk to the dunes and get down to the lake. Very peaceful place.

Came to Te Henga for hiking a couple of times but totally missed this hidden gem. That sand dune looks amazing. Cannot figure out why there is a dune.😅 Lake and stream are beautiful.

So worth the drive and I understand why it is such a popular spot! I arrived at 7am and small parking area was already full. I parked 900m away at Bethells Beach and walked. You start by walking through a stream to the sanddunes, which are spectacular. I spend a lot of time there. The loop walk is easy and halfway you have a waterfall, definitely take a dip there. Had a swim in the lake at the end as well. Although parking was busy, I hardly saw loads of people. Great walk and swimming spot.

People talk about how easy it is to get to the lake. We, an unfit couple, almost died 🤣 trying to climb straight over the sand dunes to get there! Later, we realised there’s actually a gentle slope that makes the walk much easier. So, we took a photo to show exactly where to start walking over the dunes. Hope it helps!

From the carpark to the lake, it takes about 30 minutes not because of the length but of the difficulty of walking there. The sand hills are great! How much enjoyable we walk on the soft sand and climb and run. The combination of sand and lake is so fantastic. We have never seen this kind of view before. Some kids play sand skiing there too.

Amazing landscapes in one. Giant desert like black sand dunes, big fresh water lake surrounded lush bushes and hills all around makes a great place to relax and chill. Walking back on the warm river stream is so relaxing :)

Walk from the carpark on the windy little path or in the little river all the way up to where the black aand dunes greet you. follow the river around the sand dunes u till you find the beginning of the lake. ot take a more challenging route up the sandunes for a beautiful view from above. Take a boagieboard and go down the sanddune landing right in the lake . great for families. Loved it so much

So beautiful park to walk, spend the afternoon, read, or take a look of the city. It has several historical monuments along the path. A nice fountain and it’s always clean. Its amazing gardens are full of flowers and green grass. In the background, you can see the Auckland buildings or the university on the other side. Wherever you sit, you’ll have a beautiful and different view. The bandstand is another highlight, and also the old trees. So many birds also. Highly recommended to walk around and enjoy its peace and freshness.

It's a lovely park with plenty of space to walk and take a break from the busy surrounding streets. There are many trees and flowers that make for a relaxing atmosphere and make the cityscape more beautiful. It's worth noting that the entrances to this park from Queens Street are very steep. Overall, it's a lovely location.

This is the first public place I’ve visited named after the love of Queen Victoria of England. I visited when it was perfect weather. The garden is well cared for. All sorts of people were enjoying their company, or solitude. It was peaceful and colourful. There was even a mother and very young girl beautifully dressed, waving her wand with bubbles floating in the sun across the flower beds. Magic!

Absolutely beautiful park. No matter how many times I go to Alberta Park Auckland I want to see more. Amazing photo opportunities. Below scores are out of 5 ⭐️s 👌 Atmosphere   5 ⭐️ 🙂 Presentation   5 ⭐️ 🙂 Products   5 ⭐️ 📍 Location 5 ⭐️ 🅿️ Parking:    Lots of paid parking available Overall   5 ⭐️

An oasis on peace and quietness. Went there on a full on day tip to Auckland and since i had a book i stopped to read for a while. Ended up seeing so many cute couples and people just chilling, reading and relaxing and ended up doing some friends with travellers that were around.

A beautiful and spacious park in Auckland. A lovely place to relax. The park is located opposite the University of Auckland. I love the presence of ancient trees.

Best for hanging out between class schedule, many statues and a fountain in the centre. You can also see sky tower clearly from some spots.

Like everyone has said, INCREDIBLE view. Well worth a visit. We went whilst my grandmother was at an appointment and it was a lovely little fund. Don’t have to be there that long to enjoy it. Not only was the view good but the tunnels and big gun were fun and interesting aswell

North Head / Maungauika – A Day Trip Worth Every Step If you're staying in Auckland, a day trip to North Head in Devonport is a must. Just a quick and scenic 20-minute ferry ride (around $20 round trip) from the city, Devonport feels like a world away—and North Head is its crown jewel. This ancient volcanic cone offers a rich blend of natural beauty and layered history. Once a Māori pā site and later a strategic military outpost, North Head is now a peaceful historic reserve where you can explore hidden tunnels, old gun emplacements, and some of the only remaining disappearing guns in the world. Take your time wandering the walking tracks that loop around the headland, each turn revealing sweeping views of Rangitoto Island, the Hauraki Gulf, and Auckland’s skyline. It’s the kind of place where history meets nature in the most breathtaking way. Whether you’re a history buff, a casual hiker, or just after a perfect picnic spot with an unbeatable view, North Head delivers. Combine it with a relaxed day exploring Devonport’s cafes and beaches, and you’ve got one of the best low-key adventures you can have near Auckland

Great view of the city, good walk. Some areas of the fort and tunnels need more lighting, otherwise very nice.

A fun place to explore in the tunnels. Great that there is free access to everything. A number of helpful information boards around. Lovely scenic views. A number of car parks - lower and further up. Well worth the visit. Great for a free thing to do in Auckland.

Fun place to visit. The views are breathtaking. Kids have a lot of fun. Bunkers are great fun to see and kids love to explore such places. Only thing is that one needs to be a bit careful as it can get slightly dangerous. Perfect for a day out or a picnic.

A cool area to explore, family friendly. Heaps of history and awesome views - do remember to take a raincoat (I see lots of tourists get stuck!)

Fantastic views of Auckland city & one of the last hilltops you are actually able to easily access by car. Just beware that they do lock the park gates at a certain time & if your vehicle is trapped inside, you need to call a security firm to release you. Uncertain if they charge their victims, but it can be a bit of a wait. I've seen people trapped every time, so watch out.

Bastion Point (Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Park) is one of Auckland’s best viewpoints, combining history with stunning scenery. The central obelisk and sunken gardens give the place a dignified, classical feel, honoring New Zealand’s first Labour Prime Minister. From the grassy slopes, you get panoramic views of Waitematā Harbour, the Auckland skyline with Sky Tower, and Rangitoto Island lying across the water. One of the highlights is a blue bench under a large tree on the eastern slope, made famous in the film Only Cloud Knows. Sitting there with the sea breeze and endless horizon feels poetic and timeless. The park itself is peaceful, spacious, and never too crowded—perfect for a short walk, photos, or simply enjoying the fresh air. A must-visit if you want to experience both Auckland’s history and its most beautiful coastal views.

Great location this is where Groom proposed to bride for the first time. Absolutely amazing when we saw this great decoration with lovely environment.

Peaceful and historic spot with incredible views across the Waitematā Harbour and Rangitoto Island. Great place to walk, relax, or reflect. The open grassy space and well-kept gardens make it perfect for a quiet break just minutes from the city.

Definitely go here if you're in Auckland. Great views of the city & harbour. Close to Mission Bay beach & restaurants. Visit the Savage memorial for a former NZ Prime Minister (we seem to have lost his body though...) Good parking at the top, but be aware of the gate times.

Beautiful view, with colourful gardens. Lovely place to walk amongst the grounds rich in history. To spend time with friends and family.

Beautiful place for a perfect photo shoot and sunset view

Lovely location with beautiful views. Fortunately saved from mass development by the Maori's. Unfortunately, we didn't stay long enough to fully appreciate it's beauty.

We recently visited Maungauika / North Head Historic Reserve, and it was such a memorable experience—especially for the kids! The site is not only stunning with panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf, Rangitoto Island, and Auckland’s skyline, but it’s also full of rich history. The kids loved exploring the old tunnels, bunkers, and gun emplacements, and it was a great hands-on way for them to learn about New Zealand’s coastal defence history. There’s plenty of open space to run around, and the walking tracks are easy to navigate with lots of interesting stops along the way. Highly recommend for families, history lovers, or anyone looking to enjoy one of Auckland’s most unique scenic spots!

Mangauika / North Head is an extinct volcano that erupted thousands of years ago and is part of Auckland Volcanic Fields. An ancestral mountain for Maori iwis in Auckland. The New Zealand Army used this volcano as a fortification with batteries scattered throughout the mountain. Access to Mangauika is quite easy with a car park up to the slopes of the volcano. Then the hike is quite easy and not steep at all. By walking, its also easily accessible from Cheltenham Beach. Accessing the fortifications are quite easy and there are a lot of information provided regarding the history of the volcano and the fortifications of it.

Gorgeous views from the top and lots of interesting spaces to explore. Lots of items are sign posted so make funding your way around easier. Nice easy walk from the navy museum too if your interested in doing a day in Devonport.

A free experience to explore the underground tunnels, with a wonderful view of greater Auckland. You can use your phone to light up the tunnels, but a small torch might be better.

What a great piece of history, lovely walk, fantastic views and spooky tunnels! Kids loved it too!

Great spot to see the city from another view. Good place to take kids for a walk about.

Easy to access than Mt.victoria. We can drive to the summit. We can go into the tunnel. But you need to light. Ni e view and Easy walk for 10 to 30 mins to look around.

“Ambury Adventures: Where the Sheep Roam Free” Visited Ambury Regional Park on a cool breezy day, peaceful, open, and full of friendly (and slightly judgy) sheep. The walking trails are flat and easy, perfect for a calm stroll with green views, farm animals, and that “getaway without leaving the city” kind of vibe. Great spot to bring a picnic, clear your mind, or accidentally photobomb a sheep. Parking was easy, toilets were clean, and the air? Fresh enough to bottle. “Logan was here… making friends with sheep and silence.” 🐑🌬️

This is a family friendly farm. We used to take kids here for the family day. It’s also the start for Watercare coastal walkway. There is a barn here plus two car parks, a shelter, toilets, BBQ spots and camping grounds. There are farm animals such as sheep, lamb and horses.

Peaceful and beautiful walks for all ages. The farm animals are super cute and friendly. If you feel adventurous, there are one to two hours walks to the foreshore.

Amberley Farm is an absolute gem! We had such a beautiful experience interacting with the animals. We got to pet the horses, feed adorable little lambs from bottles, and see pigs, chickens, and cows up close. It was truly an amazing and heartwarming visit

Great place to explore. Walking along the Manukau at both high and low tide is exceptional. How lucky we are to have beautiful shores n Auckland. Ambury Park is an education for everyone to visit the animals.

Awesome farm to show kids cow milking, lamb feeding, and lots of other animals. Best part, FREE. There is also peacock that likes to show off himself!

My kid loves visiting the animals here but I can’t give more than 1 star until the poor rabbits are given a better enclosure. Please look up ideal rabbit enclosures and do better for those poor rabbits - you have SO much space, there is no reason not to give them a better home.

We love coming here. Great place to spend a few hours on the playground, sand pit and water feature but let's not forget the cool skaters, scooters and bike park as well as shooting some hoops! It's all here in one big package!!👌👍

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Waterview Skatepark is a beautiful place here in Aotearoa. It’s clean, safe, and very well-maintained. Big thanks to the New Zealand Government for providing such a wonderful space for the community. Truly appreciate the effort in making this area enjoyable for all Kiwis.

Beautiful big park and splash pad. Great for the kids. Not much shade but plenty of grass if you have your own. Massive skate park behind it. Public toilets and public bbq available. 1 large gazebo type area if you get in quick. Beautiful beach themed. Volleyball pit with heavy duty net. And nice spongey padding under most of the play areas. Would definitely recommend for an afternoon out with the kids.

Great park for families, would reccomend bringing skateboard or scooter(be respectful to Older skaters tho) and a tog n towel for the kids as the park has a cool water feature too.

Kayaking Paradise! Shallow waters, easy to kayak. Plenty of shade as well. Best place to explore mangroves. Highly recommended! Been here only once, will go again! Personally loved it. Clean white beach accessible only by water!! Some litter here and there. Pls don't litter, help clean up if you can. :)

Awesome splash pad with a great playground as well (more than whats in the photo). Not a lot of shade but new trees have been planted for the future. There's also a skate park, a court and public toilets. Kids thoroughly enjoyed themselves and didn't want to leave.

Def one of the coolest parks. The water play gives it something different and its a lot of fun on a hot day. But be sure to take a towel with you. Has a good range of equipment for all ages.

Was amazing my first time there, Had a park playground for the younger ones Bombing area and slides area into the pools also a basketball shooting area Beautiful views out to the ocean and the bridge going to NorthShore With the sky tower in view

Lovely park in a very busy part of the city, makes you feel your far away from the cuty

Calm and peaceful park overlooking the shelly Beach motorway entrance. Not too large but has ample parking. You won't find anyone to assist you with anything if you go on a holiday. Has a small play area for the kids. Nice place for a stroll.

Wonderful spot right next to the Ocean. The swimming pools are free for kids 16 and under for memory and it's pretty cheap for adults or spectators. If you want to use the diving boards in the deep dive pool I think it's a few dollars, otherwise kids swim free. We rented the BBQ and brought food in for dinner which was awesome as the kids ate and went straight back to swimming..easy week night summer entertainment that costs next to nothing. Staff were really helpful and the BBQ rental also includes it being cleaned by staff...too easy!

Always a favourite. Lots of space for groups to spread out. Good lifeguards and facilities

Nice walks to Herne's Bay and other beaches, along with connections to Westhaven Promenade and Wynneard Quarter.

Why anyone would pitch their gazebo under the shade while others without one have to go without shade is beyond me. Also staff allowing people to carry their BBQs in and wait for them to set it up before telling them they can't use it, is beyond me - Signage People or be aware of what is being carried in. Toilets & Showers need a scrub otherwise don't forget to have footwear cos the floors look like a breeding ground for fungal infections. Changing room is huge and clean though. Pools are nice and great for kids although the babies tend to want the warm pool. So parents take turns. Plenty of stuff in the water for older kids, slides and jump boards for the "many" competitors. Not a real competition but you can see everyone trying to outdo one another. Pleasant way to spend the day or just to cool off. Suggest taking your own food too save $$$. Didn't take many pics but we're under shade (natural) which is more than adequate.

Beautiful stargazing experience with managing to catch the Comet 🤩

My absolute go to for all of my photo shoots with my couples! The black sand, the sunsets, the gannets. It all is just so perfectly beautiful!

Beautiful scenery and plenty of space for those wanting to avoid the crowds at the more popular Muriwai Beach next door. Walk way down and back as a bit of an adventure especially for the younger children. No disability access from what I could see so need to be able to navigate the sometimes steep and Rocky path down to reach the beach. Close enough to see the gannets nesting. Nice little Cave in the cliff side to explore at low tide. Not very sheltered unless you manage to set up next to one of the larger rock formations. Dangerous tide for younger or less experienced swimmers, and no lifeguard station either so take care if entering the water.

Great surf. Breaks off Shag Rock, or multiple peaks through the bay. Reasonably steep bottom so very dynamic through the changing tides. Short cover ups possible.

Beautiful beach for photography Nice n quite

Great customer service

Photos and vids don't do this place justice.

Iconic Museum in Auckland and an absolute must see ! My highlight was the Vulcano simulator 🌋 You can easily spend 3-4 hours here and all floors host tranquil exhibitions. The team is excellent and will help you with all your questions. The cafeteria is nice and there is also a very popular cafeteria ☕️ I can highly recommend to go there !

I would say this museum offers some of the best exhibitions in New Zealand. It features a wonderful collection showcasing Māori art, culture, and New Zealand history- from artefacts, paintings, and carvings to impressive life-sized pieces like the Māori waka (traditional canoe). The museum has also hosted incredible showcases such as the Guo Pei exhibition and, more recently, the DIVA exhibition in collaboration with the V&A in the UK. I travelled all the way from Wellington just to see DIVA! Tickets are reasonably priced (around $25) and include headsets, which is a great touch. The building itself is beautifully designed with sweeping ceilings and a bright, welcoming foyer that houses a café, restaurant, ticket counter, and access to toilets, a drinking fountain, and exhibition spaces. The layout is accessible and easy to navigate, and the facilities (including the toilets) are clean and well maintained. There’s also two floors of undercover parking located downstairs, accessible via lift. Parking payment is made at kiosks by card.

I highly recommend the Māori experience! It’s not a show but a sharing of culture. So don’t expect a long form of entertainment. I really enjoyed being part of it and being able to ask questions afterwards. The museum itself had a lot of items from many different wars and countries! It was interesting to see whole fighter planes up close! I’m only a bit disappointed that the main Māori exhibit is closed at the moment but it was definitely an informative time!

They discounted my ticket because so many exhibits were closed but I was still disappointed. I really went out of my way to get here from the cbd and there were only a couple of interesting exhibits. Further, I went here on a weekend and experienced a lot of small children screaming and running around. I believe because admission is free for locals and parents were looking for a way to occupy their children. I enjoyed the war memorial exhibition, but was disappointed parents didn’t explain to their children that the exhibit deserved a little respect. I would recommend avoiding this museum when children are not in school.

A well planned out museum for both young and old. The history of New Zealand's people both first nation and the rest are presented to us both visually and physically in items of historic value. Parking is limited especially during school holidays, weekends and public holidays. Excellent 👍 👌

What an outstanding museum! The style of the building is gorgeous. Inside you are presented with a variety of areas related to New Zealand culture and history. At the time of my visit in late August 2025 , plenty of areas were closed off hopefully by my next visit, they will be open. The highlight for me was the World War level and everything related to our past. Would recommend to anyone who can appreciate NZ history! Also note the statue of Zealandia 🤍 If visiting, you should consider a donation. Entry is free for residents of NZ with proof of identity.

I had a good experience at the war memorial museum, though it was somewhat dampened by the museum being approximately half-shuttered due to long-term repairs being made to the building and galleries. The ticket cost was reduced by 50% to compensate, which seems about right. Highlights included the Auckland exhibit, which was very colourful, progressive, and optimistic while also reflecting on more difficult parts of the past. I also really enjoyed the gallery about New Zealand’s flora and fauna. It was especially cool seeing reconstructions of giant flightless birds. WWII scholars will love the reconstructed Zero. When I went on a weekday, it was quite busy with many children, so just be aware!

This trail is beginner friendly and it’s easy to hike up the summit. Don’t miss exploring the Lava Cave - just bring a torch as it’s pitch black inside! Overall the hike took us 4hrs and about 20k steps. Make sure to bring your own food and drink as they don’t have commercial cafes/restaurants in the area. The ferry going to Rangitoto has a mini cafe that makes good coffee too.

A fantastic hike through beautiful native forest — truly felt immersed in nature. The trail was enjoyable from start to finish, offering peaceful surroundings and scenic views. A must-do experience in Auckland!

Memorable and beautiful experience. Pricey boat ride, but so worth it. My almost five year old did the whole hike to the top and back.

We walked through old lava flows, explored some caves, and saw beautiful views of the ocean, green plants, and black rocks. It was an awesome place!

Great hiking routes, some dangerous for the elderly. The black lava terrain against lush deep green makes for a beautiful contrast. Hiking can get long so use a map or google maps. Drop pins as you go at landmarks. Can be covered in 4 hrs but then there is a joint island so choose your departure time according to your plan. Bring water, coffee in a flask, dry snacks and wet wipes. No stores there, toilets are scarce, and no litter law, so be respectful of the rules and environment.

Very beginner friendly walks, no hiking experience needed. View from the top was nice, and there’s a few other little detours that you can take (lava caves were a good one).

Worth doing if you like walking. The walk up to the summit is a nice track and is in good condition. It is not too difficult We arrived on the 10am ferry and left on the 3:30pm, and that was a perfect amount of time to go to the top, visit the caves and also to visit the beach.

A great place to visit. This time round went to the 'A Century of Modern Art'. This was exhibition did cost. Other areas are free for you to wonder. Highly recommend. The gift shop has great gifts. There is also a cafe available. Pictures of the exhibition and other parts of the gallery.

Went to go see the “A century of modern art” and it was amazing. Everything was set up well with each paintings given a description that fits perfectly. Though the layout was a little strange with the room connecting to both left and right rooms, giving it not much of a clear direction to go to next. Other part of the art gallery was great with the huge room being the best, especially the cats (tigers). Definitely should visit at least once especially with different exhibitions on all the time.

Recent visit was for the 'A Century of Modern Art' show, it is much more relaxing and enjoyable to visit on a weekday. The gallery isn't too big meaning you can see everything in one visit. There's a small gallery store with a great selection of goods and a nice cafe on the 2nd floor. It does get confusing to navigate and locate the old/heritage site of the building which contains the gallery's owed pieces. Yearly memberships available, prices have gone up a lot for them. I bought a membership with guest pass, it cost over $150 I believe. In the past I recall it was $120 and it was cheaper before that too. But you have unlimited access to paid shows and membership gives you 10% off at gallery store and cafe.

A lovely visit. The art gallery was vibrant with a family event, Suzi Cato singing, musicians and wonderful art. The Cezanne is magic but there are so many wonderful displays. Lovely cafe as well.

Wonderful museum full of cultural paintings, photographs, and sculptures. Rooms are elegantly designed for maximum appreciation of wonderful artworks. The most memorable for me was the Renaissance room; paintings spanning several metres across hung up high on the walls, it made me appreciate the art so much more. Oh and the coffee was good too, good prices!

Located 2 blocks from Queen Street—one of Auckland’s busiest areas packed with restaurants and shops—the Auckland Art Gallery is an easy and worthwhile stop. The first thing that caught my attention was the building itself. The interior has a really unique, modern look with a wooden ceiling that stands out immediately. When I walked in, I learned that several of the gallery spaces are completely free to visit. The first two floors, in particular, feature excellent collections, including powerful works by Māori artists and pieces highlighting Māori culture, history, and everyday life. The art was genuinely engaging and thoughtfully displayed. The main floor also has a comfortable lounge area with seating, plus free Wi-Fi, which is a nice bonus if you need a short break while exploring the city. I arrived a bit late in the afternoon and didn’t realize they close at 5 p.m., so I didn’t get to see the entire museum. But what I did see was absolutely worth the visit. Between the quality of the art and the fact that much of it is free, I highly recommend stopping by if you’re in the area.

We visited this art gallery close to our accommodation.. it’s free but you have to check in your backpack.. it has a ground floor which has the foyer+ gift shop .. the Mezzanine includes an art land for children ( where they can build cities with a special play dough) , a Tread of time with special portraits.. Level 1 has a section with abstract + surrealism paintings , the Robertson gift paintings, abstract that uses geometry, a section has Mãori treasured portraits, a section with some Pablo Picasso paintings then also a new section “ Pop to Present “ will open Nov 8 ..,Level 2 has Louise Bourgeois ( private view of her art + sculptures) , Nakuru “three scenes “ and the members lounge. We spent over 2 hours visiting.. Keep yourself open to different kinds of art!

Nice park with lots to do for kids and lots to see for adults. Was a bit windy and cool when we went, but it was still a great time out by all.

Amazing area in CBD has alot of public toilets, walks down the pier Silo Marina to the Heritage boats, climb up the 3 storey metal walkway. Great views of Sky tower, Harbour Bridge and Rangitoto. Kids park and green spaces fountains. Nice outdoor space.

Where industry’s skeleton grows art’s living flesh, we found Auckland’s softest edges—where sunshine meets the sea. Playground, markets, sunset, City of Sails... Something here will call you.

Silo Park is one of my go-to parks and playgrounds as a mom with a toddler 😁 This playground has sand, which is great for sensory play and a little adventure for your toddler 🪣⛱️🐚 (no slide 🛝)

Love this park! Usually a night market on the weekends and plenty of space for kids, playgrounds, basketball courts, and even flat ground skatepark with some mini ramps. They also host events here like Matariki!

A great Place where you can get a good sweat for free. Definitely a great park for all those who love to play Ball. Bring your own ball and wait for a court. If not jump in for a good sweat with other ballers.

Nice open space, especially nice in the afternoon / evening. Great for walks too with decent views of the city and the sea.

Fantastic place…. In the middle of town but extremely relaxing…. Great place to get away from the hustle and bustle. Entry fee will stop us from regularly visiting …. If they can use it as a cover charge at the cafe, it will be a hit.

Visited a week after the Tulip festival. Since I love tulips, really loved the place and the entrance fee was worth it for me. Very relaxing and nice place to walk around. Not that big but I can say every corner or area is so beautiful.

Escape the city buzz in a floral paradise! 🌸 Want to see more of NZ's stunning spots? I've got a whole playlist of walking videos on my channel, BinkyT! 'look before you leap' around NZ. Eden Garden in Epsom is a hidden gem! It's a gorgeous escape with themed gardens, a waterfall, and peaceful spots to relax. It's a proper oasis, bursting with colour and fragrance. There is an entry fee of $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and students, and $6 for children. It's well worth it for a few hours of tranquility. Happy exploring, and keep those garden adventures coming!

Absolutely stunning seeing all the tulips in bloom!! Not to mention a delish croissant at the café!

Well worth a visit , wear practical shoes , some steep areas to explore . An urban escape , lush plant life & best of all a haven for the famous NZ Tui's zooming around at low proximity . Lovely spot at the on site cafe to eat lunch outside on a warm day & only hear the birds . A picnic table is available too. Be prepared to take lots of pictures . Excellent parking right outside & it is free too !

"Auckland's Best Kept Secret" indeed. I discovered this place after living here nearly 25 years! It's a funny spot, riddled with far too many pathways so it can be hard to stay orientated and make sure you've seen everything. All the paths, benches (again, far too many), bird baths, and decorative rocks have a little donor plaque on them, suggesting every local family with two dollars to rub together felt obliged to contribute. Not all the plants are identified though. Worth seeing once but don't go if it's been very rainy as drainage needs work (and a sponsor?) Nice view toward Rangitoto from the aptly named Hillary Heights, which is also the longest pathway. At $12 admission is a bit steep!

Eden Garden has long been a favorite garden for us. The intimate pathways on the lower slopes lead to all sorts of little dells and grottoes, and the path to the highest point takes the visitor up Hilary Heights and a wonderful panoramic view over towards Rangitoto Island. The garden is derived from a disused rock quarry on the side of the mountain, so naturally some of the paths are steep and perhaps taxing for some people, but there are lots of seats to rest on, along the way. The staff are knowledgeable and friendly and the cafe is good, too. Eden Garden is the sort of garden where you can chat with strangers and share gardening tips with other visitors. Come along and get to know this wonderful garden in the middle of Auckland.

A secluded family friendly beach with lovely views. The beach is picturesque and stays shallow for quite a long way out so very safe for younger kids. There are a couple of nice walks which work their way up to a lookout which allows for some great pics. The kids (and most adults) will love the pond that is riddled with a bed of eels. The smallest hint of food will have them chomping for more.

Great beach, bbqs and eels

What a great experience. Such a beautiful scene. We went with baby, so did not attempt the walk ways. We walked accross the beach during low tide and went up to the museum. Will definitely head back once baby is a bit older to complete the routes.

Awhitu Regional Park is another of the well maintained Auckland Regional Parks that make great day trips. It's family friendly with picnic areas, walks of varying length, history on the local settlers, and white sand beaches. There's even a winery right next door that does tastings - Awhitu Wines. A 30 minute drive away is the Manukau Heads lighthouse which is also worth visiting.

Stunning park with lots of track walks for all. Lots of space for people to camp. Right against the beautiful beachfront there is alot you can do here. The historic Brookhaven is a must see for you to get a feel of the area and it's early settlers- We don't get this everywhere in NZ. Recommend for a picnic, walk, run, bikeride, or day out on the grass or at the beach. I haven't seen any park like this before. It is so open and there are lots of different kinds of scenery- You will not get bored.

The regional park is probably the best place for family outings and even for camping. I think the clamping ground is close at the moment (That's what the sign said). It's very peaceful and quiet. Not very crowded and beautiful quiet beach in 3 mins walking distance and couples of walks for those love tracking. There is a public toilets facilities as well.

Felt like our own little private beach paradise. Being that it's a bit of the beaten track. Not as many shady places to sit so would be good to take an umbrella or something to sit under and sit on. The water was nice - sheltered and shallow so would be good to just swim or float.

Very fun playground, close to the beach, with many facilities and play equipment suitable for young children

Fun place to go but however be cautious going on the mouse wheel as if you fall over it can be really painful. They have some really big slides which take a while to climb but it’s worth it once you get to the top. The mini trampoline in the ground is kinda sad and has nearly made me trip in it several times since it is just randomly placed into the ground. However still a fun playground to go to and it is really quick to go to stores since they are just behind the playground up a ramp.

Great park!!! So much to do. There were heaps of slides, ropes to climb on, a hamster wheel, spinny things, a wheel chair swing, super clean bathrooms, grills, and so much more! Definitely recommend!

Awsome park to take out your family or friends to eat lunch or go for a long walk on the beach. Heaps of chairs under the tree to relax. Big playground for kids. Even a handicap ♿️ kids can play here. Well maintain. Big public toilets and changing room. Long Beach.

Celebrating Chinese New Year at Takapuna Beach Reserve on 10/2/2024, my husband and I enjoyed our lovely moments there. There is an annual special event organised by China Cultural Centre Auckland for Chinese New Year. Therefore, there are lots of people visiting the stalls and enjoying the dancing performance. After attending this special event, we had a relaxing stroll on Takapuna Beach. We highly recommend you for attend this special event next year if you happen to live in Takapuna or drive past there.

Really clean! Keep in touch with the I Love Takapuna group or the Auckland Council as they have a lot of community events there. Great day for the family, and the lifeguard station is there behind the park to take the kids swimming.

Great playground for the kids..even hammocks!! Paid parking is easy to use..close walk to township only 200m. Many cafe's in close vicinity and usually ice-cream or waffle type caravans parked close to playground in the weekends. Toilets and changing rooms only meters away. A nice beach right there as well. Caters for everyone's wants and needs.

Nice little pool under the falls. It's about 200m walk down from the road on a gravel path. It's steep but not prohibitively. People had buggys for kids there when we arrived. Not a huge amount of space to hang around in if it's busy but plenty of space to sit for a while.

This is a nice waterfall that is only a short walk (5 minutes) from the car park with toilets. The hardest part of the walk was the first 25 metres that descends into the forest.

Incredibly short walk with a little elevation gain and loss; from the carpark, you must walk up the road a small way to find the entrance. Serene and quiet, I had the space to myself for a half hour of peace. 10/10 worth a stop in if you're in the area

great place, no restrictions about swimming. only 5 minutes walk from carpark and another 5 for trail

I had the best experience at Eug’s hairdresser saloon! I’m very happy with the results of the haircut (even tho I had two color it blue and cut even more, guess that was the best part of the experience) definitely recommend going here and don’t forget to say hi to the eel from me :))

A very lovely destination. Easy to access. Park in the beach car park then a short walk up the road and off to the left easy gravel path down to the falls which you can hear anyway 😊. It's super peaceful if no one's there but regardless a great spot to visit and enjoy.

Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction that’s easily accessible from the Karekare carpark, which has toilets onsite with wheelchair access. From the carpark, follow the road uphill briefly until you see the small "Karekare Falls" sign on the right. The walk begins with a steep downhill section for about a minute, then levels out for a smooth journey—though proper footwear is recommended. On the way, you’ll pass a smaller waterfall, but continue left down the path and cross a small bridge to reach the main attraction. The waterfall is breathtaking, with a serene atmosphere, but it can get busy with visitors taking photos or enjoying a swim. Overall, it’s a short and rewarding walk to experience one of nature’s beautiful spots. Whole walk from carpark to waterfall is 5mins

🌿beautiful mix of nature and history lakes , native bush. Great for walk as birds spotting dog friendly outings. 🗾 offers stunning harbour views and peaceful trails.☕️🥗 perfect day out with the Chelsea Bay cafe 🍽️ near by. Must visit place :)

This is a lovely park close to the Chelsea Sugar Factory. There is a loop hiking trail with bush view as well as ocean view of Auckland city. The park is ideal for dog walking. Plenty of car park spaces here.

Good walks of various lengths and steepness. Enjoyed watching the shag colony. Cafe was nice at the end of it all

Chelsea Estate Heritage Park is an okay spot, I guess. It's got some industrial stuff going on with the old sugar refinery, and the harbour views are pretty nice, I'll give it that. There are walking tracks and picnic areas, so you can kill some time if you're in the area. It's not really blowing me away, but I can see why some people might like it. If you're into industrial history or just need a place to walk your dog, it's worth a visit, I suppose.

Beautiful place to walk around with your family. Dogs can play off lead and you can walk down the end and have a lovely bite to eat or coffee and look at the view.

Beautiful setting with stunning views across the harbour to Auckland city. A variety of easy walks are offered through the park, and we were lucky enough to catch a mini tour through the Sugar Factory (only $10pp) which was very interesting!

Great for walking your dog. Nice bush walks, but it has some quite steep uphills, so keep in mind if not too physically fit.

Nice, quiet beach with calm water great for kids. Clean playground, rock pools to explore, and grassy picnic area. Toilets nearby. There's not much parking here. Good spot for a relaxing day out.

Such a beautiful little beach with nice spots under the trees to have some shade. I like that the beach is not too long and big, so it feels more personal - It’s good to come here with kids because you can see them from everywhere. The platform in the water is fun to swim to and good rocks to climb onto. Public toilets straight at the beach and an ice-cream truck that stops there once or twice a day!

Had an amazing birthday beach visit with my daughter and grandson 💙 ❤️ 💕 😍 Perfect for everyone 👌 ❤️

Castor Bay Beach Reserve seems a quite popular spot for swimmers. My husband and I went to Castor Bay Beach Reserve for a relaxing stroll. We saw some people swimming and fishing there while others enjoyed their stroll along the beach. It worths a visit when you drive past Castor Bay next time.

Great beach and foreshore area with golden sand, lots of shade and generally a nice crowd. Note that parking is very limited, so on busy days you might have trouble finding a park near the beach. Gets nice and deep quickly which is good compared to some beaches in Auckland. There’s also a pontoon which is an added bonus.

Not much beach at high tide. But quieter than most beaches on the North shore and easy to access.

Great beach for families with young children. Calm waters, soft sand, playground, toilets. Just be cautious of people launching boats and jet skis.

One of the best beaches in Auckland. Near shops, diners, restaurants and children’s playground: there is a lot of activities to choose from all in one place.

Kids have heaps of fun here there is so much to do here ..just be mindful to keep a eye on your kids if they goin to be on the big jungle gym as it get really high.and what a beautiful beach ⛱️ 👌 😎 it's dog friendly and the kids have a blast as most dogs are friendly...if u want to get a good spot there are trees there that u can use for shade 😎.

Loads to offer here at this beach with plenty of shops and restaurants to try along the way. A very decent size playground for children too just by the beach! Definitely gonna return here.

A truly beautiful beach. The sand was full of shells which gave it a charming beauty. The ancient trees next to the houses on the edge of the beach were also charming. I will definitely come back here when I visit Auckland.

Fantastic beach, very photogenic, covered in seashells! There are many dogs off leash here, I have no concern about that, it was fun to see their happiness and not a single dog jumped or barked at me. The public toilet and changing/shower room were clean and functional, much appreciated. The playground is really cute and if I had kids, I would bring them here often. I'm very glad I chose to find lodging near Takapuna Beach. If you're looking for an economic kitchenette near the beach, I recommend Takapuna Motor Lodge, it's an easy half-hour walk. Plenty of buses around the area, too - Waiake Beach and Long Bay Regional Park are worth the short trip north. Easy access to downtown Auckland which has loads of things to see and do. Great city! Very welcoming people, smiling and saying hello and good morning, very sweet!! All in all, an excellent vacation spot!

Great beach with playground and public bathrooms, lots of shops and stores nearby/within walking distance, except parking is usually very difficult

Takapuna Beach is one of the beaches that both my husband and I love to go every now and then. Water there is so crystal clear and green that so many people enjoy swimming there. We highly recommend you to go there for swimming, sunbathing or just strolling along this beautiful beach if you happen to drive to North Shore.

Excellent views! Recommended! NB car cannot drive to the top. Walk about 400 meters to the top.

The coolest place to catch the sunset, pretty skyline, view of the Auckland CBD, heaps of benches and picnic tables, grass is green and thick, fun to have picnic around too

Had to take a bit of a hike to reach the top but it was definitely worth it! It is such a beautiful place to be with spectacular view all over Auckland. I was very grateful to come here and see these views with my very own eyes.

Mount Victoria in Auckland is a 87-meter-high volcanic cone that offers stunning 360-degree views of the city and harbor. Located in the Auckland suburb of Devonport, Mount Victoria is a popular spot for walkers, picnickers, and those looking to enjoy the views.

Another hike in another volcano.. once you are at the top, the views are magnificent.. good thing there are benches to sit .. Beautiful place for sunset views …

Great view and place to spend few hours under the sun. Cars are not permitted to drive to the top however if you have a mobility permit for your car you can contact the local council office for an access code, this will allow you through the barrier and you can drive right to the top.

Great views of area. Not to difficult to walk up but there are a few fairly steep walkways/steps.

Nice inner city park this.Space to walk the dog, fly a drone, get fit. Has Aucklands answer to Stonehenge, well kinda.Nice plantings, surrounded by attractive apartments, and more historic villas. There is some seating, and a water drinking fountain. The ground can be quite boggy though.

Nice open park, good for a walk. Be great if there was a kids playground

It is nice to have a lovely park in CBD. Can have a relax after lunch.

Nice place to let the dog off the leash for a run, and a couple of others were walking their dogs as well.

A nice park in the middle of urban jungle, despite that the ground is very undulated. Have a fountain to refresh your soul with the sound of running water. Also a great place to let your dog loose to get their exercise. A great place to have your lunch, enjoy the view, having your exercise; a sanctuary in the middle of the buildings and houses.

Nice green space with trees for shade in summer and flat space for running or games. Popular with people with dogs, but in my experience they do a good job cleaning up after them. Only downside is no sealed paths through the park, so during wet weather can get very muddy and boggy.

Nice small park to chill, read, play with kids and dogs...

Wattle Farm Pond Reserve is a hidden gem in South Auckland! A peaceful spot with a scenic walking track, plenty of birdlife, and a relaxing pond view. Great for a quiet stroll, a picnic, or just unwinding in nature. There’s also a playground for kids and open spaces to enjoy. Perfect for a quick escape from the city without going too far.

My families favourite place to be for a peaceful quiet Saturday walk and relaxation... Watching all the goose, birds and seagulls makes me feel so happy and alive... Lovely cool breeze and kids friendly!

Beautiful place for relaxing on the weekends. Lots of geese, ducks, some swans and birds I don't know their names. Radio remote sails sometimes racing in the pond. Lots of fun. There are many parking spaces and there is loo, too. Good to stay there for hours and enjoy the views.

If you are looking for a peaceful and serene sunset, This is the place...

It's been a minute since I last visited the park as there was additions avail i.e. BBQ area. Park looked great, grounds maintained. My fav place to hide & get a little shut-eye.

Nice spot, pond park and play area

Beautiful place. Little ponds and a nice big park. So many birds, a small playground for kids but carry sunscreen and hats.

Lovely little central beach if you’re looking for a quick dip to cool down after a hot day. Check the tides before you go, so you don’t have to walk so much. Also worth checking the safeswim Council page before you swim somewhere. Cheers

There is a swing with a great view..at least it was there in June. Great spot for cup of coffee. :)

It’s nice beach but need more care and you may see the sunset there it you lucky

Small beach and a bit out of the way. I expect if tide is high it will barely be there. Great if you're a nearby resident though.

This use to be a lovely, clean beach around 15 years ago, now its heavily eroded, dirty and the selfish have squeezed in another boat house in this already cramped space. I would rate it 2/10 nowadays. Better beaches elsewhere in Auckland

It's quite a cute little beach, with a cool view of the bridge and Watchman Island, however it's not the greatest for swimming (has to be quite full tide to be worth your time, and sand turns to mud a few meters out). Not a bad beach, but you can do much better in Auckland.

Shame about the helicopter pads going in to the Waitemata here. Sounds like the rationale for these monstrous buildings is, according to the Herald, to get to golf games and take clients on joy rides! Very understandable and there should be some information explaining this at the beach.

Love this off leash spot. Nice sheltered bush walk down to the beach which the dog loves at any type of tide. We keep him on leash during the bush walk as there are some steep cliffs on your way down. The walk on the way back is very steep so it may not be the walk for everyone.

Fantastic place just a stone’s throw from the city. Sheltered bay safe for kids swimming. Various nature walks nearby. Water can be a bit murky in the low tide, but still SO much better comparing to the Mission Bay! No wheelchair access.

Lovely place, scenic walk

A mix of sand and mud. Fun to explore farther out during low tide.

Gorgeous little bay that is great to tire your dogs out on the walk up and down

beautiful beach but quite a long & steep walk to water & the water was a bit mucky because the shore is clay so couldn’t swim :(

Pretty mean as spot for a good walk. Wouldn't reccomend actually swimming as you'd have to walk 300 metres out just for the water to reach your hips but its worth it for the view of the inner harbour. Real quad burner if you want to run up the steps.

Sky Tower (part of the SkyCity Auckland complex)  • Height: 328 metres from ground level to the top of the mast.  • Location: Corner of Victoria Street West & Federal Street, Auckland CBD.  • Opened: 1997.  ⸻ What You Can Do / See • Observation Decks: There are multiple levels you can go up to for views. You can see up to ~ 80 km in good weather, including volcanoes, harbour, city skyline etc.  • Orbit 360° Dining Restaurant: A revolving restaurant located near the top — dining with panoramic views as the restaurant rotates.  • SkyBar: A bar high up in the tower with expansive views.  • SkyWalk & SkyJump: • SkyWalk — walk around the exterior of the tower at height, harnessed.  • SkyJump — a controlled “jump”/plunge off the tower from a height (for the thrill-seekers).  • Gift shop, cafes, and casual dining, including Sky Cafe.  ⸻ Structure & Design • Built with high-performance reinforced concrete shaft (about 12m diameter) with support from piles, and with a steel mast at top.  • It’s designed for safety: wind resistance (can sway in strong winds), seismic design to withstand significant earthquakes, fire safety features, etc.  ⸻ Hours & Tickets • Opening hours: The Sky Tower is open daily, from morning (around 9:30 am) until evening/night (hours depend on the day & season).  • Last entry times vary with season.  • Admission fees: There is an entry fee for the observation decks. The cost depends on which deck, whether you want to add things like SkyWalk or SkyJump.  • Booking: Better to buy tickets in advance online to secure times and sometimes get discounts.  ⸻ Why It’s Worth Visiting • It’s an iconic Auckland landmark — visible from many parts of the city, a symbol of Auckland.  • Unmatched 360-degree views of the city, harbour, islands, volcano cones etc.  • Combination of experiences: you can just enjoy the view, or add excitement with SkyJump / SkyWalk, or dining high up. Gives options depending on how adventurous or relaxed you’re feeling. • Great at sunset or at night for city lights.

In cities that have a big tower like this it's almost always worthwhile to go up and check out the view. This tower has two levels of observation and one level for dining and bungee jumping. There may be other levels but there were some renovations happening at the time of writing. I'm sure this could be made into a much bigger activity by dining here during the sunset or jumping off (a desire I'll never understand) but just as a casual place to spend some time between outings in Auckland it's pretty great.

So worth the money to visit the lookout! A bit scary at first but well worth the beautiful view. We really love that there’s also a sit down option where you can enjoy the view and some good kai. There’s also ice cream and coffee at one of the lookouts.

A good view of the city and probably one of the only things to do in Auckland that is actually in Auckland and doesn’t require a day trip. Price felt a bit expensive for what it was as there wasn’t actually that much to do at the top bar the views. But if you’ve got a spare hour or two in Auckland and aren’t strapped for cash then I’d do it.

If you come to Auckland, DO NOT MISS THE SKY TOWER!!! Yep, both my wife and I enjoyed our time looking at the majestic views and taking photos. Seeing Auckland from this vantage point was a great way to see the city. Plan your visit for a clear day to maximize your viewing pleasure.

Had a great time up here. Price was a little steep for what it is but we had a good time nonetheless the less. Some fantastic views across the city and had the weather been nicer I can imagine some of the views would have been majestic. Elevator takes you up to the 51st floor and then another elevator takes you up a further 9 floors. All in all, worth a visit for an hour.

Sky Tower is definitely one of those must-do experiences in Auckland! I’d give it a strong 9/10. The views are absolutely stunning—you get a full panoramic look over the harbour, city, and even out to the islands. The photos you take up there will be some of the best from your trip. The glass floors add a thrill, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the SkyJump or SkyWalk turn it into more than just sightseeing. The only minor downside is that tickets can feel a bit pricey, but honestly, for a once-in-a-lifetime view, it’s worth it. It’s the kind of spot that really makes you feel like you’ve “arrived” in Auckland.

Dry beautiful garden • Location: 102 Hill Road, Manurewa, Auckland.  • Size: ~ 64 hectares, including about 10 hectares of native forest.  • When established: The gardens were opened in 1982; land for them was purchased back in 1968.  ⸻ What’s There / Highlights • Plant collections: A wide diversity including native New Zealand plants, exotics, edibles, African plants, magnolias, camellias, roses, etc.  • Native Forest Trail: A bush/forest remnant walk that’s quite scenic.  • Threatened Native Plant Collection: For seeing rare and vulnerable local species.  • Gondwana Arboretum: Trees that reflect ancient lineage or plant families with long evolutionary histories.  • Potter Children’s Garden: A child-friendly themed garden to explore.  • Seasonal displays & gardens: Rose garden, Camellia, Magnolia, Edible Garden, African Garden etc.  • Visitor Centre (Huakaiwaka): Includes café (Café Miko), display/exhibition spaces, map & garden information.  • Outdoor sculpture: Large scale artworks are scattered throughout.  ⸻ Hours & Entry • Entry: Free entry for the gardens.  • Opening hours (Gardens): • Summer (October–March): ~ 6:30 am to 8:00 pm  • Winter (April–September): ~ 6:30 am to 6:00 pm  • Visitor Centre & Café have more limited hours; closed Christmas Day, café may close earlier.  ⸻ How to Get There • By car: Take the Southern Motorway (State Highway 1). If coming from the city heading south, exit at Manurewa / Hill Road (Exit 451), then left onto Hill Road; the gardens are the first driveway on the left.  From the south, exit at Takanini (exit 453), then follow a combination of roads (Great South Road → Alfriston Road → Claude Road → Hill Road) to reach the gardens. • By public transport: There’s a bus route (366) between Manurewa bus interchange and the Gardens. Also possible combination with train + bus + walking from Manurewa train station. Approximately 2 km ride or walk from the station. • By bike: You can take a bike on the train for free, then cycle a short distance from the station. There are bike parking facilities at the visitor centre.

Auckland Botanic Gardens is peaceful, beautiful, diverse garden experience that suits many interests, from families and casual visitors to plant lovers. If you visit, allow a few hours (or more!) so you can wander without rushing, stop to sit and take in the views, and perhaps have a picnic. Highly recommended.

Beautiful place to have a walk with your dogs and take pictures. Here’s a pro tip: the I cream van line is always very long so just go to the cafe and buy an ice cream tub or a popsicle. Overall, place is full of amazing flowers and trees and my dog had an absolute blast here. Just make sure the weather is nice before coming here!

Had a lovely time at Auckland Botanic Gardens! The gardens are so beautiful and peaceful, with lots of space to walk around and enjoy the flowers and greenery. My family really enjoyed exploring different sections, and the kids loved the playground. A perfect place to relax, take photos, and spend a quiet day surrounded by nature.

A Day Well Spent at the Auckland Botanic Gardens 🌳 My recent visit to the Auckland Botanic Gardens was an absolute delight and a perfect escape into nature. The images showcase the incredible variety and beauty of the gardens, making it clear why this is a must-visit spot. Overall, the Auckland Botanic Gardens are a spectacular place—a beautifully cultivated space that offers both horticultural interest and a peaceful retreat from the city. I highly recommend spending a few hours exploring its paths and diverse collections.

Great place for a walk , went in spring it was delightful. several walking paths from the main entrance that are an easy walk without many challenging uphills available . Just wished there were more signs for the main exit from the paths.

Great way to start Sunday morning. Strolling in the Ak Botanic Gardens is a great way to meet other people, their dog, their cat or just take in the wonderful variety of vegetation👍

Fell in love with estate gardens whilst living in the UK and missed visiting wonderfully constructed garden landscapes until my sister took me to Ayrlies last week! It was a quiet day due to the changeable weather but the mixture of overcast and sun played beautifully on the foliage and the quiet added a level of serenity to the place. We loved meandering along the property path, enjoying the views, the peace and the birds. There has obviously been so much care and love put into the place. Can't wait to visit again during another season. Thank you!

A quaint private owned garden close to home. Plenty of parking. I found the online paying not that good so it is best to bring cash along. I do not think you would spend up to 2 hours here. 45 minutes to 1 hour would do. There are decent amount of photo spots and the walk is nice.

Such a beautiful and special place. Lovely spot to walk and slowly meander about in. Had the pleasure of meeting Jacqueline too and hearing a little about the history of the grounds and the immense amount of work that went into planting and maintaining them. Must visit for all plant and flower lovers!

What an amazing place. Went with an arranged bus trip ,on the 60th anniversary of the gardens. Busy but still plenty to see. Some areas not accessible, but I guess places of this calibre have ongoing maintenance.

Our walk along the Ayrlies Wetlands Walk Track was pure joy on a sunny day: every detail here feels thoughtfully designed. Native New Zealand plants thrive abundantly, while winding boardwalks, small bridges, and serene lakes around complement each other beautifully. This ecologically rich spot is such a fantastic haven for wildlife, we spotted many birds along the way, including New Zealand Scaup, Tui, Pukeko, New Zealand Dabchick, Grey Teal, as well as Kahu (harriers), Shining Cuckoos, Black Shags, Pied Shags, and Spoonbills. Ayrlies Wetlands definitely is a treasured destination for nature lovers.

$20 entry fee was worth it. Perhaps not the best place for families, but I recommend a romantic walk with your partner in this beautiful garden. Gorgeous ponds, lavish flowers, and friendly staff willing to educate. Next to one of the ponds, you can see tree roots growing upwards. I am planning on revisiting in the autumn and spring seasons. Nice, quiet place.

This place is amazing! It is very big and absolutely breathtaking. It is my favourite time of year, when the leave start to turn colour. It's an awesome display. I do feel that $20 is quite steep, although I do understand that maintenance of such beautiful space would cost quite a lot. Unfortunately if you're a small family, then it is very costly. The top garden and wetlands are free to enter. I do wish there were a bit more benches. I absolutely recommend it.

Beautiful beach with hardly any crowds. There is changing rooms, toilets and bathing space at the beach. There are also drinking water fountains. Visited the Cheltenham beach during the low tide, so had to walk quite a bit to reach the waters. Kids and myself had a great time at the beach. You can spot starfishes and other marine life's during the low tide. Beach is quite walkable from the Davenport Ferry terminal 2 ..

lovely empty beach. There are almost no people here with lots of clamshells and seagulls walking around the beach. The view of Rangitoto is also lovely.

Beautiful beach, water is only a few metres from shore. From the beach you can walk up Maungauika/North Head Historic walk with great views.

Cheltenham Beach in Devonport is another great spot for kite surfing and laid-back beach vibes. I visited in the fall, and it was super quiet—no crowds, just peaceful coastal energy. The water was surprisingly okay for the season, not too cold, and the steady wind made it clear why this is a favorite for kite surfing. Wide open views, soft sand, and a chill atmosphere make it a solid choice whether you’re into water sports or just want to unwind by the sea.

Large beach that at low tide has heaps of space. Summer hours for dogs apply but great space for them to run and splash. Water very low depth for ages. Safe paddling

Cheltenham Beach is in Devonport, on the North Shore of Auckland.  • It’s a sandy beach, part of the harbour shoreline, facing towards Rangitoto Island.  ⸻ Features & Amenities • Gentle, calm water — suitable for swimming, especially when the tide is in.  • Large sandy area; at low tide the beach extends out, but swimming can require walking out.  • Shaded grassy areas and trees behind some parts of the beach, good for picnics.  • Public amenities nearby: toilets / changing rooms are accessible. Also cold-water showers in some cases.  • Nearby attractions: North Head Historic Reserve (Maungauika), which has walks, lookout points, old military tunnels etc. Also the Devonport village (cafés, eateries, shops) is close.  ⸻ Things to Do • Swim — best when tide and water condition are good.  • Walk along the shoreline, especially at low tide.  • Picnics, relaxing on the sand, reading, sunbathing.  • Kayaking or paddle-boarding (calm waters often make it suitable).  • Walk up to North Head for views of the harbour, Rangitoto, and the city.  ⸻ Access & Getting There • From the Devonport Ferry Terminal: about 1.5 km walk to Cheltenham Beach. Scenic and pleasant walk.  • By public transport: buses are available around Devonport that will drop you close. Also accessible via road / driving, with parking nearby though parking may be limited in peak times.  • The beach area is open all the time (24 hours), though amenities and facilities (like shops, cafés etc.) follow their own hours.  ⸻ Safety & Water Quality • Water quality is generally good, but after heavy rainfall it can be affected — as with many beaches.  • The beach is not patrolled by surf life-guards, so extra care should be taken with children and weaker swimmers.  • Be aware of tides — at low tide, water may be shallow/inaccessible in parts; high tide is better for swimming. 

Amazing safe beach for kiddos to enjoy. Shady spots to sit and warm ocean temp. Always a lovely view of Rangitoto and North Head. Better than Narrow Neck for the younger ones. Nice shops for snacks within a 2 min drive. Lots of free street parking.

Western Park is a large park in the middle of busy Ponsonby area. Being on a downhill slope, It is accessible via Ponsonby road on one end and streets linking to Hepburn Street on one side. There are a lot of walks with some uphill climb given the nature of the terrain. The bottom part of the park features a large kids playground which is very popular with families and kids. Some interesting art installations are maintained on the top end on Ponsonby Road, on this park which makes this a very unique spot for art lovers. We had a great time in the playground area and kids enjoyed it a lot. Highly recommended for half a day's outing.

Sooo cool! I searched google for ruins in Auckland and this came up. Since I was in the city, I decided to check it out. Situated on the edge of Western Park (Ponsonby Rd side), these sculptures are a perfect way to commemorate old Auckland. Just catch an inner link bus and get off opposite the spca boutique.

A lovely inner-city park with rolling hills and a fabulous playground, including long slides and a zip-line.

Must visit place. Lush green, golden yelllow hue, giant trees, playful furbabies and kids playing around. It was such a nice place to either by yourself or with friends or with your family. Also to mention it’s Pet friendly park.

An awesome playground awaits, featuring fast-flowing slides and a thrilling flying fox that offers impressive views of the city. While it can get a bit boggy during the winter due to a makeshift lake, it remains a nice spot for kids and adults to play and relax.

Cool park, nice walk, heaps of shade. Toilets, water fountain, slides, swings, mini trampolines, flying fox, those ring a round the rosey thingys lol I think that's what it's called and seesaw. Field, court and a good place to walk dogs and alot of benches, picnic tables and seats to chill.

Gorgeous sanctuary in inner city/Ponsonby with great views of the Sky tower. Amazing array of big majestic exotic and native trees with good walking paths. Some Walkways are very steep and winding. Dog friendly

Had a look around today , gardens in autumn shades. Got be worth going back in the for the camellias and other flowering shrubs. A little disappointed about the lack of butterflies today, but that I guess there will be more in the spring. Aside from that the walk ways are reasonably accessible , some stairs in some parts. Still well worth a look at this hidden gem.

Delightful, peaceful wooded garden with lots of lovely clearings with seats to sit on. Also there are a number of cute Summer Houses dotted around the garden. The Butterfly House has several lovely Monarchs in it. They even thought of an umbrella over the fish pond to keep the water cooler for the Goldfish. Parking is in the grounds. A wonderful project run by volunteers - thank you so much!

A beautiful space. Wandered around and enjoyed the amazing work of volunteers to make this place peaceful and interesting. Loved that they put the plant names on things. Well worth a visit. No butterflies though. Lovely area to have a picnic as well.

What a great place for a picnic with the family. An awesome display of expert gardening and landscaping. Highly recommended.

Absolutely lovely to wander around. Calming and natural. Also great to see locals making use of the facilities. The monarch butterflies and caterpillars were a treat to see!

Gorgeous park and great plants to admire.

A wonderful natural retreat right in the Auckland suburbs, easily accessible by public transport. Despite not having any butterflies in winter, the ambience and tranquility of the garden is absolutely breathtaking. From the various greens and links of the plants to the chirping of birds, the butterfly house is a perfect place for relaxing in beautiful Mother Nature. Better still, the area is well maintained by the cheerful and friendly staff who are absolutely delightful ti chat with. It won't be an exaggeration to say that this garden is like a slice of NZ nature at its best. Definitely worth the $5 entrance fee! .