Top Family-Friendly Picnic Spots in Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland, the City of Sails, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, lush greenery, and abundant outdoor spaces. With its temperate climate and diverse natural beauty, Auckland offers plenty of picturesque picnic spots that families can enjoy. Whether you’re seeking tranquil coastal views, vibrant parks, or lush gardens, Auckland has something to offer for every family looking to embrace the great outdoors. Here is out pick of the 22 best family-friendly picnic spots in Auckland to take the kids!
1. Cornwall Park: A Green Oasis in the City:
Cornwall Park is a beloved gem nestled within the urban expanse of Auckland. This expansive park offers sprawling grassy areas, perfect for laying out a picnic blanket. With a backdrop of the iconic One Tree Hill, families can enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline while indulging in a delightful picnic. The park also boasts walking trails, a duck pond, and the opportunity to meet friendly farm animals at the Cornwall Park Farm.
2. Auckland Domain: Urban Elegance Meets Nature:
Located near the heart of the city, Auckland Domain is a historic park featuring the Auckland War Memorial Museum. Families can find ample picnic spots amidst the lush surroundings, including charming rose gardens and serene duck ponds. After your picnic, take a leisurely stroll through the park’s pathways or explore the museum’s fascinating exhibits.
3. Botanic Gardens: Floral Paradise for Picnics
The Auckland Botanic Gardens offer families an opportunity to indulge in natural beauty. With a wide variety of themed gardens and open spaces, this location is ideal for picnics surrounded by vibrant flowers, lush foliage, and tranquil water features.
4. Albert Park: Urban Oasis of Relaxation
Located in the heart of Auckland’s CBD, Albert Park provides families with a lush haven amid the city’s hustle and bustle. The park’s serene ponds, mature trees, and open spaces offer a perfect setting for a leisurely picnic and relaxation.
5. Ambury Regional Park: Farmstead Fun and Picnicking:
Ambury Regional Park offers families a unique experience with its working farm and expansive grasslands. Set up your picnic near the farm animals, enjoy scenic views of the Manukau Harbour, and let the kids explore the park’s educational walking trails.
6. Takapuna Beach Reserve: Seaside Picnic Perfection:
Takapuna Beach Reserve boasts a wide sandy beach and grassy picnic areas, making it a fantastic spot for families to relax by the water. Take advantage of the stunning views, build sandcastles, and enjoy a picnic while listening to the gentle waves.
Read about Auckland for Kids visit to Takapuna Beach Playground.
7. Tranquil Haven with a View: Little Shoal Bay Reserve
Little Shoal Bay Reserve offers families a peaceful haven by the waterside. Nestled along the North Shore, this reserve provides stunning views of the Auckland Harbour Bridge and the city skyline. Families can spread out on the grassy areas for a picnic while taking in the serene surroundings. The playground facilities and gentle lapping of the water make this spot a favorite for families seeking a relaxing day by the sea.
8. Lake Wainamu: Nature's Playground with Sand Dunes
Lake Wainamu is a hidden gem that offers families a unique picnic experience. Located near Bethells Beach, this lake is surrounded by impressive sand dunes and lush native vegetation. Families can enjoy a picnic near the lake’s edge before embarking on a short walk to the sand dunes, where adventurous spirits can try sandboarding down the slopes for an exhilarating afternoon.
8. Western Springs: Wildlife Wonderland:
Western Springs Park is a fantastic choice for families who want to combine their picnic with wildlife encounters. The park is home to a picturesque lake where you can enjoy a picnic while watching the graceful swans and ducks. The nearby Auckland Zoo is an added bonus, offering an opportunity for an educational and entertaining day out.
9. Coyle Park Point Chevalier: Coastal Beauty and Recreation:
Coyle Park, located in the Point Chevalier neighborhood, offers a picturesque coastal setting for families to enjoy a relaxing picnic. The park’s expansive grassy areas, playgrounds, and views of the Waitematā Harbour make it an inviting spot for families of all ages. After your picnic, take a leisurely stroll along the coastal walkway or let the kids explore the playgrounds.
10. North Head Devonport: Historic Picnic Spot with Views:
North Head, situated in the charming suburb of Devonport, provides families with a blend of history and natural beauty. This historic reserve boasts underground tunnels, gun emplacements, and sweeping views of the Hauraki Gulf. Families can have a picnic while soaking in the panoramic vistas and then explore the intriguing remnants of a bygone era.
11. Western Park in Ponsonby: Urban Escape with Playgrounds:
Western Park in the trendy neighborhood of Ponsonby offers families a delightful urban escape. With its mature trees, grassy areas, and play spaces for kids, this park is an ideal location for a family picnic. Parents can relax under the shade of trees while children have fun on the playgrounds. The park’s central location also means you’re close to shops and cafes for post-picnic treats.
12. Wenderholm Regional Park: Coastal Charm on the Hibiscus Coast
Wenderholm Regional Park, located on the Hibiscus Coast, beckons families with its coastal charm. The park’s tranquil picnic areas provide views of the Puhoi River, and families can explore the native forest, walk along the beach, or take a refreshing dip in the river. This serene park is perfect for families seeking a day of relaxation and natural beauty.
13. Oakley Creek Reserve: Nature Oasis in the City
Oakley Creek Reserve is a hidden gem that offers families a serene escape right within the city limits. This lush reserve boasts a picturesque creek, walking trails, and picnic spots tucked away amidst the greenery. Families can enjoy a leisurely picnic by the water’s edge while listening to the soothing sounds of the creek. With its tranquil atmosphere and abundance of native flora, Oakley Creek Reserve provides a perfect setting for families seeking a peaceful day in nature.
14. Maraetai: Seaside Picnicking Paradise:
Maraetai Beach offers families a quintessential Kiwi beach picnic experience. The sandy shores and sparkling waters provide a stunning backdrop for a leisurely meal. Families can explore the beach, build sandcastles, or take a dip in the ocean before settling down for a picnic. The coastal atmosphere and gentle waves create a tranquil setting for quality family time.
15. Monte Cecilia Park Hillsborough: Historic Beauty with Play Areas:
Monte Cecilia Park in Hillsborough offers families a touch of history and ample space for outdoor enjoyment. The park’s expansive grounds provide shaded picnic areas, perfect for relaxing meals with loved ones. Additionally, the park features playgrounds for children to enjoy after their meal. Monte Cecilia Park’s historic homestead and gardens add an extra layer of charm to this delightful family-friendly destination.
16. St Heliers: Seaside Elegance and Family Fun:
St Heliers, a charming coastal suburb, presents families with an elegant yet inviting setting for a beachside picnic. The golden sands and azure waters of the beach create a beautiful backdrop for family gatherings. After enjoying a picnic, families can explore the local shops, stroll along the promenade, or let the kids play at the nearby playgrounds. St Heliers’ blend of coastal beauty and family-friendly amenities makes it a favorite destination for families.
17. Karekare: Wild Beauty and Untamed Coastline:
For families seeking an adventure off the beaten path, Karekare beckons with its wild beauty and rugged coastline. Situated on the west coast, this beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush native bush. Families can enjoy a picnic on the black sand shores while taking in the awe-inspiring scenery. Afterward, explore the walking tracks, marvel at the Karekare Falls, or simply let the kids have fun in the waves.
18. Karaka Bay: Hidden Gem by the Sea
Tucked away in a charming coastal neighborhood, Karaka Bay is a local favorite for picnicking. Its quiet ambiance, small beach, and stunning views of Rangitoto Island make it an ideal spot for families seeking a peaceful seaside escape.
19. Rotoroa Island: Island Escape for Families
Nestled in the Hauraki Gulf, Rotoroa Island is a captivating destination for families seeking an island escape. Accessible by ferry, this serene retreat offers pristine beaches, native vegetation, and walking trails for exploration. Families can enjoy a relaxing picnic on the sandy shores while surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature. With opportunities for birdwatching, swimming, and discovering unique sculptures, Rotoroa Island provides a tranquil setting for quality family time amidst untouched landscapes.
20. Long Bay Regional Park: Beachside Bliss:
For a quintessential Kiwi picnic experience, head to Long Bay Regional Park. With its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, this beachside park offers an idyllic setting for families. Enjoy your picnic on the grassy knolls overlooking the ocean or spread out on the beach itself. After eating, take a refreshing dip in the sea or explore the nearby walking trails.
21. Silo Park: Urban Picnic with a View:
For families who appreciate the urban vibe, Silo Park offers a unique picnic experience. Overlooking the Waitematā Harbour, this park features grassy areas, picnic tables, and even an open-air cinema during certain seasons. Enjoy your meal while taking in the cityscape and vibrant atmosphere of Auckland’s waterfront.
22. Shakespear Regional Park: Nature Immersion:
Venture slightly out of the city to Shakespear Regional Park for a day of family adventure. This coastal park boasts stunning views, walking trails, and secluded picnic spots. Families can enjoy the company of native birds and explore the park’s rocky coastline after their meal.
Auckland’s natural beauty and variety of picnic spots provide families with an abundance of options to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. From expansive parks to tranquil beaches, each picnic spot offers a unique experience while inviting families to connect with nature and spend quality time together. So, pack your picnic basket, grab your loved ones, and immerse yourselves in the enchanting landscapes that Auckland has to offer. With these top family-friendly picnic spots, you’re sure to create cherished memories with the kids.
