Want to exercise but are put off by the cost? Don't be. For free workout equipment around Auckland, hit up these outdoor spots:
Tāmaki Drive and Mission Bay Reserve
Just across the road from the main strip of restaurants on Tāmaki Drive is a lush green reserve with an outdoor gym full of callisthenics equipment for strength training – think monkey bars, pull-up bars and incline benches. For an added workout, try the grass field, the beach for a swim or Tāmaki Drive for a jog.
Jacob’s Ladder, St Marys Bay
Up for a challenge? Warm-up with a walk or jog around Victoria Park, then run up and down this steep staircase, before shaking out your legs in a jog over the architecturally designed bridge. See how many rounds you can do.
Sturges Park, Ōtāhuhu
Forget slogging it out on an indoor treadmill, just pop down to Sturges Park instead. It has three outside machines for strength and cardio training, as well as a fitness trail of interesting bars to really test your strength and balance.
Blockhouse Bay Recreational Reserve
If you’re new to exercise equipment, there is a great circuit of machines here, each with instructions on how to use it and which muscles should be feeling the burn. If a jungle gym is more your thing, try out the selection of balance beams, bars and steps.
Grey Lynn Park
The basketball court makes the perfect spot for some bodyweight drills or shooting hoops to warm up, and then work your way through the unique set of strength training machines.
Onehunga Bay Reserve
Like a big playground for adults, there are about 10 different stations to work your whole body here, from incline benches and monkey bars to balancing logs and running barrels. If you’re a keen skater, bring your board, too, as there is a half-pipe next door.
