Finding things to do with kids over the summer can be a challenge. Exploring Auckland’s paths is a great opportunity to combine exercise with helping the kids burn off some energy and having some fun.
Here are five paths to check out in your part of Tāmaki Makaurau. For more information or other paths to explore, head to aklpaths.co.nz
Tōtara Bridle Path
The scenic bridle path provides a great opportunity to enjoy a stroll around Tōtara Park. The wetlands and streambeds are home to local birdlife like pūkeko, kōtare (kingfisher) mallard duck, kāruhiruhi (pied shag) and kawau (black shag).
The award-winning adventure playground is themed on the classic Kiwi bach while there is a second playground with a giant tunnel slide. Take togs for the whole family during summer and have a dip in the Tōtara Park Pool at the end of your walk.
Karaka Path
This path is great for pushchairs or bikes as it meanders along the edge of the Pahurehure Inlet and the suburb of Karaka. With plenty of seating along the way, there are ample opportunities to enjoy the views across the southern Manukau harbour. The path passes the playground at Milano Reserve twice so the kids can have a play both on the way out and back.
Pāhurehure Esplanade Path
Across the southern motorway from the Karaka Path is another great path for pushchairs. A local favourite it has a beautiful boardwalk that weaves its way around the inlet. There is a playground, skate park and plenty of open space at Ray Small Park across the road from the start of the path where the kids can have a play or kick a ball around at the end of the walk.
Seaside Park Path
This family-friendly path in Ōtāhuhu is a great path for anyone of any ability or age. There are plenty of views of the Tāmaki estuary and across the water to Mangarei / Mt Wellington while the kids will enjoy the climbing web at the playground. The palm trees dotted around the park help give a tropical feel as you wander around. For families with dogs, there is an off-leash area along the foreshore.
Kohuora Short Loop Path
This short circuit loops around the volcanic crater that makes up the Kohoura Park. Surrounded by wetlands that are home to pūkeko, poaka (pied stilt), karuheruhe (pied shag), kotare (kingfisher) and matuku-moana (white faced heron), Kohoura Path has plenty of places to sit and enjoy the wildlife. A toddler-friendly playground and reasonably flat paths make this a great place for young families. This path is also only 5 minutes walk from the Papatoetoe Train Station.
