Parks in New Zealand for a Sunday Stroll

One of the most renowned gardens and parks in New Zealand, it was awarded 6 stars by the New Zealand Garden Trust, this lovely garden was developed by a lovely old couple who loved gardening. Various forms of flora in all its glory, this garden is a must visit for all the garden lovers out there. Not only does this garden give you a place to stroll along in the serene lush greenery, it is also a beautiful destination to host your wedding and celebrate all other special occasions in your life. This garden also is a beautiful spot to click some dazzling pictures.

Address: 71 Racecourse Road, Allenton, Ashburton 7776, New Zealand
Timings: Everyday till 4 pm subject to weather conditions.
Cost: Free

This captivating Wellington botanic gardens with a history of 150 years is the home to various species of plants from across the world including protected native species and is one of the oldest parks in New Zealand. This dog friendly garden features colourful plant and croton collections spread over a massive 25 acres. Activities here include guided walks, cable car museum and bird watching among others. The garden also features a duck pond, children’s playground, botanic garden shop, Begonia House and a picnic café for a wholesome day out.

Address: 101 Glenmore Street, Kelburn, Wellington 6012, New Zealand
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: 18 NZD for adults and 8 NZD for clidren

One of the most lush parks in Auckland comprises a garden and the wetlands, the beauty of which cannot be experienced in one day. The garden spawn over 4 hectares of rolling terrain with scenic landscapes all around. The wetlands on the other hand, are spread over 14 hectares which are around 300 mm deep. The difference in terrain and depth offer a habitat for some exotic birds and aquatic creatures. Activities and events happen here throughout the year which can be known by checking their official website.

Address: 125 Potts Road, Whitford, Auckland, New Zealand
Timings: Monday to Friday – 9.00 am to 4.00 pm
Cost: 20 NZD per visitor

As the name suggests the botanical garden, sprawling over a huge 64 acres is home to thousands of species of plants from across the world and has dedicated areas to each variety such as African plants Garden, Herb garden, native species garden and Palm garden among others. It also features a rock and rose garden which is an ideal spot for the shutter bugs to click some flattering pictures. This garden stands out in practicing sustainable horticulture while making sure that the plants here thrive without any form of chemicals.

Address: 102 Hill Road, The Gardens, Auckland 2105, New Zealand
Timings: Winter hours – 8 am to 6 pm, Summer Hours – 8 am to 8 pm. (Everyday)
Entry: Free

An exotic spot in Auckland, this is a welcoming choice for people who love to go on a revitalizing mountain bike ride. There are paths throughout the reserve to enable easy biking for the riders. The reserve also provides lovely views of the reserve, not to mention the upper harbor. The reserve mostly comprises of grasslands and pastures with exotic trees as well. With around 8 tracks to go on a biking adventure on, it is advised that the riders keep an eye on the board signs so that they stay on the right track.

Address: Paraparaumu 5034, New Zealand
Timings: 6 am to 8.30 pm everyday

Coming into existence in 1876, the Pukekura Park is one of the favorite parks in New Zealand among the locals and foreigners alike. The park is the home to a wide range of flora species, both native and foreign. The Poet’s Bridge here is a scenic spot with enchanting views of the surrounding lake. Also featuring a man-made waterfalls and a lovely fountain, the Pukekura Park is a beautiful spot for picnics and day outings. Apart from these, the park is also a famous sports venue featuring a cricket stadium. The park also serves as the venue for the annual Festival of Lights which turns the park into a dreamland from mid-December to February.

Address: 10 Fillis Street, New Plymouth 4310, New Zealand
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm

One of the most famous parks in New Zealand, Queen Elizabeth Park is an ideal day out destination with family offering various activities such as horse riding, bird watching, cycling, swimming and fishing among others. Adrenaline pumping activities such as mountain biking, rafting and kayaking are also allow available here. The park also features a pony club, sand dunes and wetlands to add that extra touch of recreational entertainment. The park is dog friendly except around the farmlands in the area. Picnics can be arranged with prior bookings in the forest areas with barbeque grill options.

Address: Paraparaumu 5034, New Zealand
Timings: 8 am till dusk

A common leisure spot in the area of Masterton, the wetlands around the lake is a scenic spot that drowns one in the laps of nature. The park is dog friendly and wheelchair accessible. Activities here include bird watching and boating and the park has quite a few trails and picnic spots to relax in. One of the main attractions here is the ducks and geese in the lake, the antics of which is usually enjoyed by all the visitors.

Address: Colombo Road or Te Ore Ore Road, Te Ore Ore Road, 5810, New Zealand
Timings: Open 24 hours