Summer is well and truly here and what better way to embrace these warmer days than by visiting a park.
With more than 4000 parks across the region, including 27 regional parks and the local park down the road, we are spoilt for choice. From walking, camping and kayaking to picnicking, mountain biking, swimming and fishing, there is a whole heap of activities to enjoy.
“Our parks are some of the most picturesque and diverse natural landscapes in Auckland,” says Auckland Council’s Head of Parks Services Mark Bowater.
“Summer is our busiest period, which is great seeing people out and about enjoying what our backyard has to offer. From time-to-time, we do see some visitors get themselves into dangerous situations, particularly in our more rugged regional parks. So, there are a few safety tips visitors should be aware of to make the most of their park visit.”
Know before you go
If you’re heading outdoors remember to:
- Plan your trip
- Tell someone your plans
- Be aware of the weather – New Zealand’s weather can be highly unpredictable so check the forecast and expect weather changes.
- Know your limits
- Take sufficient supplies – make sure you have enough food, equipment, clothing and an appropriate means of communication.
Heading out on the water?
- Be prepared – learn how to swim and survive, always use safe and correct equipment, and know the weather and water conditions before you get in.
- Watch out for yourself and others – pay close attention to children, swim with others and where lifeguards are present.
- Be aware of the dangers – make sure you keep an eye out for rising water levels and flash floods.
- Know your limits.
Get more safety tips by reading the Water Safety Code at Water Safety New Zealand and the safety code for boaties.
Check before launching skywards
Got a new drone for Christmas? You can fly your drone or UAV in most parks and public spaces around Auckland without a permit. Even though permits may not be required for many parks, there are still council and aviation guidelines that need to be observed. So, check the Auckland Council website on where you can and can’t fly your drone before launching skywards.
Kauri dieback
Kauri dieback in Auckland is a serious problem and it’s important we all play our part to prevent the spread of the disease.
If you enter or leave a forest/area with native trees anywhere across the region, here are three easy steps you need to remember:
- Scrub – clean all soil off your footwear and gear. Kauri dieback can be spread by just a pinhead of soil.
- Spray – your footwear and gear with disinfectant at every cleaning station you encounter.
- Stay – on track and off kauri roots.
Always check the Auckland Council kauri webpage before going for a walk to find out what tracks are currently closed.
Keep an eye out for safety signage
From dog walking restrictions to information about no-go areas, there are a number of helpful safety signage in our parks. Keep an eye out for these during your visit.
What park will you visit next?
Find your next adventure by visiting the Auckland Council find a park or beach webpage.
