Have you recently moved to West Auckland and are looking for the entertainment hotspots? Or are you visiting Auckland for the weekend? Or are you looking for something new to do? We’ve come up with four epic weekend circuits, jam-packed with fun for all you food-loving and adrenalin-junkie parents in Auckland.
Circuit one: Waterfall splash ‘n’ ride: Central
1ST STOP: MARKET
Where? 847 New North Road, Mount Albert, Auckland (Open from 9:00am to 1:00 pm)
Head over to the Mt Albert Market for tasty yet tummy-filling goods and replenish your energy for the adventurous day ahead. Feel free to grab weekly meat and bread for your pantry too! With new stalls popping in each week, you’ll find tasty hot coffee, pies, dolmades, dips, chicken pate and beetroot relish” yum.
2ND STOP: WATERFALL
Where? 1520 Great North Rd, Waterview, Auckland
Opt for a 20-minute walk or a 6-minute drive to a hidden treasure in itself – Oakley Falls, the only waterfall in the city. Take a quick foot dip or for those kiddo-dad teams that are itching for adventure, brave the cold and take a quick swim under its 6-metre long waterfall!
3RD STOP: PUMP TRACK
Where? 48 Dryden St, Grey Lynn, Auckland.
After a refreshing splash and trek, pack the bikes for another 10-minute drive to the Grey Lynn pump track. Skid some wheels and feel the need for speed with your kids before heading home with your market foods.
Circuit two: Wacky western adventure : West Auckland
1ST STOP: PARRS PARK
Where? Oratia Dr, Glen Eden, Auckland
If your little thrill seeker is ready for their next adventure this weekend, this destination is a must-go. The renowned Parrs Park offers a contemporary playground experience with its caterpillar seesaws, rocking bumble bees, mighty swings, slides and towers (yes, there will be binoculars at the top for some stunning views!). While there will definitely be adrenaline pumping, expect some brain-stimulating action too. The playground’s unique sand play and water flow experimentation area is perfect for any curious kid. Packing sun hats, sunscreen, snacks and a supply of water is recommended – you’ll surely be there for hours!
2ND STOP: PLAYGROUND AND CAFE
Where? 8-14 Henderson Valley Rd, Henderson, Auckland
After a few hours of activity, expect demanding grumbling tummies. Luckily, you hardly need to travel if you’re looking for a combination of memorable food (we’re talking seriously delicious) and an insane one-of-a-kind urban playground. This playground is every child’s dream – you’ll find kids of all ages playing on a handmade crochet play net rocket ship, a dragon’s castle and pirates’ cove. So while you’re over at the pump tracks, don’t forget to pop into this foodie-and-play duo at The Grounds, tucked away in Whoa! Studios at Henderson Valley.
3RD STOP: INDOOR POOLS
Where? 20 Alderman Dr, Henderson, Auckland
For most kids, there’s nothing more fun than spending time in water. Ending the day with a splash is no hassle with this circuit – a mere 3-minute drive awaits a classic family-favourite pool for Westies. For your last stop, go for some swimzies and relaxation (yes, there is a spa too!) at Westwave Pool and Leisure Centre.
Circuit three: Walk, foodie and fun xtreme: East Auckland
1ST STOP: WALK UP THE MOUNTAIN
Where? Musick Point Rd, Buckland Beach, Auckland Central
Auckland has a knack for hiding its best gems – and the beautiful Musick Point Esplanade is one of them. Bring your kiddos to this historical site for some brisk walking and sightseeing over the harbour, whilst also checking out its historical Musick memorial.
2ND STOP: XTREME FUN
Where? 500A Ti Rakau Dr, Botany Downs, Auckland
Put the dad’ in dad’s day out with a bit of adrenalin – pump up the buzz with just a mere 20-minute drive (from Musick Pt) to Xtreme Entertainment Botany. They’ve got tenpin bowling, laser frenzies and the best arcade games to fill up the rest of your fun-filled afternoon.
3RD SROP: NIGHT MARKET
Where? Reeves Rd, Pakuranga, Auckland 2010
End the day with full tummies and ethnic flavours at Pakuranga Night Market, a short 9-minute drive from Xtreme. Rain or shine, hundreds of people gather to one of the seven different night markets in Auckland, one day a week, where different foods, live music and performances come together.
Circuit 4: Sugar, spice, and the serene South: South Auckland
1ST STOP: MORNING MARKET
Where? Newbury St, Manukau, Auckland
For early Auckland risers, the Otara flea market, open every Saturday from 6am, is a great foodie stop. Stalls are offer fresh fruits, vegetables and ethnic foods such as hangi, spanish and island doughnuts, poke, pork buns, sushi ” don’t miss out! Expect performances on some Saturdays and an awesome range of homemade items to buy.
2ND STOP: PICNIC AND RUN AROUND
Where? Mangere Bridge, Auckland
While you’re there, head over to Mangere Mountain and Mangere Domain. Lay out some picnic mats, food from the market, accompanied with a frisbee, rugby ball, a footy or the good ol’ backyard cricket set from your childhood.
3RD STOP: VISIT THE FARM
Where? 43 Ambury Rd, Mangere Bridge, Auckland
With little to no cost you can bring the kiddos a little closer to nature just 10 minutes away. The family-favourite Ambury Farm lets all their visitors (including all the curious kiddos) experience farm life with a ton of different friendly animals that will mostly allow you to feed and pat them. Occasional shows run throughout the day, so be sure to drop in so you don’t miss out! Check out their map and more info here.
By Jianne Takeda
IMAGE AT TOP: GREY LYNN PUMP TRACK/KEITHANDSANDY.CO.NZ AND PINTEREST
