Jordan McCraeAuckland truly has it all, from its bustling city life to its lush greenery. And one of the best ways to experience its natural beauty is through its numerous parks, either tucked away outside the city or within top urban spots.
Not sure where to start? We’ll take you through the must-visit parks in the city, show you how to get there, and even give you insights into what activities you can do on your own, with your friends or with the young ones!
Albert Park
– Media by kurufo
Website: https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/parks-recreation/Pages/park-details.aspx?Location=169
Address: 33-43 Princes Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 301 0101
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Right in the heart of the Central Business District, you’ll find Albert Park. It’s super-close to Queen Street, a major spot in the city, so if you’re hanging out in central Auckland or checking out the CBD, chances are you’ll stumble upon it.
It’s a top hangout for folks looking to relax, meet up, or just enjoy the scene. That’s why during term time, the park is buzzing with plenty of locals and students from the two nearby universities: the University of Auckland and Auckland University of Technology.
In the middle of the park, you’ll see this cool fountain with a statue of Queen Victoria, surrounded by colorful flowers and trees. Plus, it’s close to some cool tourist spots like the Sky Tower, so there’s more to check out after chilling in the park.
Now, for the best weather, try visiting between March and May or September and December. That’s when the temperature’s warm and the park’s at its best.
And yes – it won’t cost you a dime to get in.
Otamariki Park
– Media by playz.co
Website: https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/parks-recreation/Pages/park-details.aspx?Location=2924
Address: 193 East Tamaki Road, Ōtara, Auckland 2023, New Zealand
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Looking for a nearby playground close to the lively Ōtara town center in South Auckland? Head over to Otamariki Park, which you can easily access just by crossing the pedestrian path from East Tamaki Road.
With monkey bars, basket swings, and a crow’s nest climbing tower, there’s something to keep your kids entertained for hours while you relax on the benches. Kids will love the giant slide, while we adults can shoot hoops on the basketball court.
From here, you can also go for a leisurely stroll, as the park serves as the starting point for a walking and cycling trail that follows the route of Ōtara Creek.
The winding gravel path is mostly flat, so it’s perfect for both walking and biking. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes for the 8-kilometer Ōtara Path!
Tawharanui Regional Park
– Media by _eatdrgs
Website: https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/parks-recreation/Pages/park-details.aspx?Location=228
Address: 1181 Takatu Road, Tāwharanui Peninsula 0986, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 366 2000
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
This regional park, tucked away on the eastern tip of the Tāwharanui Peninsula, is one of Auckland’s prettiest spots. With its wetlands, sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, native bush, and wide open spaces, it’s a real treat for nature lovers.
Getting there is a piece of cake, thanks to the 24-hour pedestrian access and an automatic gate at the park entrance on Takatu Road. Once you arrive, you’ll find four beautiful white sandy beaches waiting for you.
Anchor Bay is the main one, perfect for surfing and swimming, especially in the summer. Above Anchor Bay, there are grassy areas shaded by Pohutukawa trees, which are the perfect spots for an afternoon picnic.
There are also plenty of trails to explore, from easy walks to more challenging hikes with stunning views from the top.
With so much to see, you might find that half a day or even a full day isn’t enough. Why not extend your stay by pitching a tent at the camping site? Just make sure to reserve a spot (you can call through the contact number available) in advance, especially during the holiday months.
Cornwall Park
Website: https://cornwallpark.co.nz/
Address: Green Lane West, Epsom, Auckland 1051, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 630 8485
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Many locals call Cornwall Park one of the coolest spots in Auckland. One of the biggest green spots in the city, it has tall trees, chirping birds, and a large open space just for casual relaxation.
Back in the day, it was used as a hospital for American soldiers during World War II and later as a pioneering women’s health center. That’s why history buffs would love some of the old spots here, like the Rongo stone, the Sir John statue and fountain, and the Sunken Garden.
But even if history’s not your thing, there’s still a lot of things to do. Hang out with farm animals, spot some birds, have a picnic under the trees, or kick a ball around on the grass.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own path or follow one of the walking tracks in the park for your morning jog.
Spring is the best time to visit because that’s when all the cherry blossoms start blooming. To get here, just hop on the train from Britomart to Remuera, and it’s about a 20-minute walk from there.
Auckland Domain
– Media by starry_xxing
Website: https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/parks-recreation/Pages/park-details.aspx?Location=126
Address: Park Road, Parnell, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 301 0101
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Just a short distance away from Albert Park, the University of Auckland, and the CBD is Auckland Domain, the city’s oldest park and one of its biggest too.
What makes it special? Well, it’s built around the cone of the ancient Pukekawa volcano. Picture a large crater with a little scoria cone in the middle – that’s where the Auckland Domain is.
Locals and tourists alike flock here for all sorts of activities. Take a leisurely stroll, go for a jog, or, if you’re feeling fancy, rent a bike and explore the park’s trails.
And if you’re into light workouts, there’s free exercise equipment scattered around the place. Plus, you can challenge your buddies to a game of tennis on the courts.
If you have kids, they won’t be bored either – there’s a playground with plenty of fun stuff to keep them entertained.
But the real jewel in the park’s crown? That’d be the Wintergarden Complex. Step inside and you’ll find two glasshouses – the Temperate House and the Tropical House – filled with plants from all over the world.
Best part? It won’t cost you a penny to get in, just like the park itself.
Western Springs Lakeside Park
– Media by jinafe
Website: https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/parks-recreation/Pages/park-details.aspx?Location=146
Address: 99 Motions Road, Western Springs, Auckland 1022, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 301 0101
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
If you’re up for some lakeside relaxation, head over to Western Springs Lakeside Park. This public park is conveniently located near the Museum of Transport and Technology and the Auckland Zoo, and you can get there via Motions Road or Stadium Road.
It has a big lake, which actually used to be one of Auckland’s original water supplies. Keep an eye out for black swans gliding gracefully across the water – you’ll want to snap a pic!
Besides chilling by the lake, it’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll around the park or along the lakeside. Families and friends can pack a picnic and enjoy watching the ducks, geese, birds, and native pukeko hanging out.
But the real gem of the park has to be the Fukuoka Garden. It’s home to some seriously cool bonsai trees, peaceful water features, a pond, a waterfall, and a cute tea pavilion. You won’t want to miss it when you come visit Western Springs Lakeside Park!
Western Park
– Media by moneymeak
Website: https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/parks-recreation/Pages/park-details.aspx?Location=151
Address: 5/7 Howe Street, Freemans Bay, Auckland 1011, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 301 0101
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
One of Auckland’s fantastic parks is Western Park, offering everything from bush walks to an exercise trail and a fantastic children’s playground. It’s super easy to get to, with entrances on Hepburn, Beresford, and Tahuna Streets, as well as Ponsonby Road.
There’s even a new entrance on Hopetoun Street, complete with a viewing platform overlooking the harbor.
As mentioned, Western Park has all the usual park amenities, making it perfect for a relaxed afternoon picnic, a fun day out with the kids, or a leisurely stroll in nature.
But what sets it apart is the 1km Western Park Path. This loop trail takes you on a scenic journey around the park, offering diverse landscapes and picturesque views.
Modern facilities are also available at Western Park for public use, including toilets, fitness equipment, seating, and drinking fountains. And like most public parks in Auckland, it’s free to visit.
Myers Park
– Media by circability
Website: https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/parks-recreation/Pages/park-details.aspx?Location=104
Address: 72 Greys Avenue, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 301 0101
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
If you haven’t been to Myers Park, then you’re missing out on visiting one of the best parks in the city. It’s right in the middle of Karangahape Road, Queen Street, and Aotea Square.
And because it’s so centrally located, it’s perfect for a relaxed picnic with family or a leisurely stroll with friends, even on a regular weekday.
It’s actually a good spot to visit if you’re looking for outdoor green space to relax in the middle of the towering buildings. The place has massive trees – you’ll see everything from Moreton Bay figs to palms and Puriri trees – giving you shade during those scorching summer days.
The playground in the area is also fun, having been upgraded in 2014 to mark the park’s centenary. It’s full of bright and colorful equipment for kids of all ages to enjoy climbing, swinging, balancing, and sliding.
While in there, take time to see the very pleasing artsy shops or cafes in the area and buy a to-go cup of coffee to enjoy at one of the benches.
Chelsea Estate Heritage Park
Website: https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/parks-recreation/Pages/park-details.aspx?Location=458
Address: Colonial Road, Birkenhead, Auckland 0626, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 301 0101
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
At Chelsea Estate Heritage Park, you’ll find a mix of native and exotic plants, plenty of birdlife, and numerous trails to explore.
It’s nestled in the historic suburb of Birkenhead on Auckland’s north shore, right beside the scenic Waitematā Harbour. You can access the park through the main entrance on Colonial Road.
This place is a paradise for hikers and walkers, with lots of tracks winding through lush greenery. You can take leisurely strolls along these trails, many of which lead to beautiful bush valleys.
If you’re a beginner, don’t worry – there are shorter paths that’ll take you to secluded spots like Kendall Bay.
Good news for dog owners: your furry pals are welcome here! Just remember to keep them on a leash, especially if there are other people or pups around.
The highlight here is spotting native New Zealand critters and birds like grey warblers, fantails, tuis, and pukeko. Whether you’re walking or just chilling by the pond, keep your eyes peeled!
After all that exploring, why not have a picnic? There are dedicated spots where you can relax and refuel with your crew
Ambury Regional Park
– Media by mr_ledoy and tonilagdameo
Website: https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/parks-recreation/Pages/park-details.aspx?Location=202
Address: 43 Ambury Road, Māngere Bridge, Auckland 2022, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 301 0101
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Ambury Regional Park is a fantastic spot for families with kids or anyone who loves animals! That’s because it’s not just a park – it’s a working farm, complete with all kinds of adorable creatures like pigs, goats, chickens, sheep, cows, and even majestic peacocks.
And if you’re in the mood for a scenic stroll, you’re in luck! The park offers three different walking tracks.
First is the Foreshore Walk, a 45-minute loop that takes you through open pasture to the waterfront. Then there’s Lost Gardens Walk, a one-way track where you can see remnants of Māori stone mounds.
And, of course, the ever-popular Family Farm Walk, another 45-minute loop that winds through the animal enclosures, allowing you to get up close and personal with the critters.
Picnicking is also a must at Ambury Regional Park. There are several picnic and BBQ areas scattered throughout the park. So don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a leisurely day surrounded by nature.
To get here, simply hop on the airport motorway and follow the signs for Ambury Regional Park from Mangere Bridge and Coronation Road.
