Kia ora! Welcome to a collection of stories from my hometown — Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau.
I’ve put together a few highlights from around Auckland — a mix of outings we’ve enjoyed like the Zoo, strawberry picking in Kumeu, Muriwai Beach, and the lively Pasifika Festival.
There’s always something happening here, from beautiful parks and beaches to fun local events.
Whether you live here too, or you’re planning a visit, I hope these posts give you a few ideas. Come along as I share some of our favourite spots and easy ways to enjoy what Auckland has to offer.
Click on an image below to view the post:
Our Matariki Meander Through the City
Mānawatia a Matariki! We had a lovely sunny winter’s day on the Thursday before Matariki, so we decided to head into the city for a walk. It was too nice…
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Relaxing at Muriwai Beach: Gannets, Walking, Swimming & Picnic
Muriwai Beach, located just 40 minutes from Auckland, offers a serene environment with its black sand, rolling surf, and scenic coastline. Visitors can enjoy swimming, body surfing, and viewing the…
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Bacon and Onion Quiche Recipe: The Perfect Picnic Treat
Last night, the three of us—Basker, John, and myself—headed off to Pt Chevalier Beach for a lovely evening picnic. With the tide coming in, I knew it would look pretty…
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Kauri Glen Reserve Walk and Lunch at Chelsea Sugar Works in Auckland
Looking for a peaceful escape but still in the city? We spent a lovely day out in Auckland, enjoying nature and delicious food at two fantastic spots: Kauri Glen Reserve…
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Festive Walk Through Auckland: Christmas Decorations & Delicious Treats
Recently, we explored Auckland City to appreciate the festive Christmas decorations. Starting with a train ride, we visited the prominent Christmas tree and enjoyed coffee and lunch at Commercial Bay.…
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Coastal Parks and Local Delights: A Weekend Retreat on the Mahurangi Peninsula
During a holiday weekend, we visited Snells Beach for a baby shower. We explored regional parks, enjoyed local food, and experienced the lively Matakana Farmers Market. Highlights included walking scenic…
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Pick-Your-Own Strawberry Farm in Auckland + Easy Strawberry Margarita Recipe
Good Planet is the ideal summer destination for berry picking, offering fresh strawberries and blueberries in a family-friendly environment. Visitors can enjoy amenities like a playground, café, and ice cream…
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Exploring Auckland Zoo During the School Holidays: Big Cats
Auckland Zoo is a captivating destination for families and animal enthusiasts looking to embark on an exciting adventure during school holidays. Location: Motions Road, Western Springs, Auckland Auckland Zoo Link:…
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Muriwai Beach: A Rugged West Coast Beach
We are regular visitors to Muriwai Beach. It has sparkling black sand, wild surf, a rugged coastline and it just seems to go on and on for ever. We love…
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Where are the Best Places to see Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau’s Spring Blooms?
Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Spring is in the air!! 🌸 Today I am super excited to bring you a list of the places I love to visit in…
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Fowlds Park: a local neighbourhood park
Fowlds Park in Auckland is a wonderful local spot in the middle of the city suburb of Western Springs. It has big, old trees that give shade and make the…
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Auckland Zoo: where even the lorikeets know how to strike a pose
Visiting the zoo is truly is an amazing experience that never fails to make me appreciate the diverse wildlife we share this planet with.
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Pasifika Festival 2023: Auckland
Just a small glimpse of some performances at the Pasifika Festival held over the weekend at the Western Springs Lakeside Park in Auckland.
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Mercer Bay Loop Walk – Cliff Top Walk with Great Views
Exploring the great outdoors is a passion of mine, whether it’s strolling through parks, along beaches, through forests, or amidst the bustle of the city. However, this latest adventure gave…
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Walk Jacob’s Ladder: St Mary’s Bay, Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau
Video: Walk Jacob’s Ladder: St Mary’s Bay, Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau
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CBD Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau – A Sunday Afternoon Walk
We enjoy walking in Auckland and usually we head to one of Auckland’s beautiful beaches or a stunning park, but the city is a great place to walk.
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Garden Walk: Domain Wintergardens, Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau
Garden Walk: Domain Wintergardens, Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau
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A Day Trip to Tiritiri Matangi Island Bird Sanctuary, Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau
My daughter gave us a trip to Tiritiri Matangi Island as a Christmas gift so we decided to make the trip on a hot sunny day in January. The island…
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Karangahake Gorge: An Easy Day Trip from Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau
We have made it a tradition to picnic on New Years Day and this year was no exception. Just where to go is always the topic of great discussion for…
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An Afternoon Taking in Some of the Best Views on Offer in Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau
We love nothing better than a wide panoramic ocean view particularly with our great city front and centre. We have missed the ocean during lockdown because of course the sparking…
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An Easy Day Trip to 4 Places: East Auckland
It takes a small commitment but visiting these 4 places in one day is easily achievable and enjoyable. While we are in Lockdown Level 3-Step 1, we are allowed to…
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Wenderholm- Auckland’s Best Picnic Spot
Wenderholm Regional Park, located at 37 Schischka Road, Waiwera, features a picturesque beach, estuary, and a variety of wildlife. Visitors can enjoy shaded picnic areas, an historic museum (Couldrey House),…
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One of Auckland’s Most Scenic Walks – Milford to Takapuna Coastal Walk
The Milford to Takapuna walk is a scenic 45-minute trek along Auckland’s coast, showcasing stunning views of Rangitoto Island and the Auckland Gulf. Starting at Milford Reserve, the path includes…
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Cornwallis Beach: One of Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau’s Best Kept Secrets
Cornwallis Beach is just 30-35km from Auckland City Central and yet if you come here on a week day (not school hols) you are more than likely to find you…
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Western Springs Lakeside Park Walk: Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau
It was a lovely day out at Western Springs Lakeside Park over the weekend and wonderful to see people enjoying the park. Of course there were lots of families with…
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Walk at The End HIV Big Gay Out with Janet, Auckland 2021
Yesterday I wandered around at The End HIV Big Gay Out 🌈 which was held close by at Coyle Park, just a few minutes drive from my house. It was…
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