What better way to spend the long weekend than with friends and family at the park.
We’ve picked some of our favourite spots to visit while the weather is warm. For more top picks, check out Stuff.co.nz’s favourites.
Waitawa Regional Park
If you’re looking for a cool dip in the ocean, an overnight camping adventure or a serene walk through the woods, Waitawa Regional Park has a lot going on. It’s only 50 kilometres from Auckland’s city centre, so why not?
Dove-Myer Robinson Park
Also known as Parnell Rose Garden, Nancy Stein Memorial Gardens, Pohutukawa area, Judges Bay, St Stephens Cemetery and Fred Ambler Lookout. Home of the famous Parnell Festival of Roses, the park is easily accessible by car and bus. Check out the views from the Fred Ambler Lookout and explore the variety of roses, old and new.
Omeru Falls, Kaukapakapa
Roughly a 35-minute return walk from Kaukapakapa township, this bush reserve features two streams, waterfalls, a pa site and a picnic area. This park is a well kept nor-western secret, dying to be explored.
Ambury Regional Park, Mangere
Fan of cute animals, stunning waterways and family fun? Then check out Ambury Regional Park. Home of the ever-popular Ambury Farm Day, and somewhere you can spend an entire day exploring.
Sanders Reserve, Paremoremo
At 41-hectares in size, families can either take their bikes along to try out one of the 22-kilometres-worth of bike trails, or take Fido for some off-leash exercise. Take a picnic and see how stunning the Waitemata Harbour is or enjoy horse riding around the reserve.
If you're keen on the beach instead, check out our five favourite Auckland beaches to explore.