When we think of spring we think of lambs, blossoming flowers, weekend markets and family fun in the sun (when it decides to come out). Auckland has so much on offer this spring – animals waiting to be loved on and flowers ready to be smelt. Get out and enjoy all the city has to offer.
Ambury Park
Where? 43 Ambury Road, Mangere Bridge, South Auckland
Ambury Park is the family’s haven this spring. Located in the southern suburbs, it is home to farm animals new and old, and offers your little ones the opportunity to get up close and personal with them in their natural habitat. Time it right and you may even get to feed the lambs; either way you’ll still find joy with the sheep, goats, cows and pigs. This park also has great pram access and extensive walking tracks for the whole family to explore. Ambury Park is also available to hire for birthday parties, so you can make the day extra special.
Auckland Botanic Gardens
Where? 102 Hill Rd, The Gardens, South Auckland
These incredible flourishing gardens will make your eyes pop and jaw drop. Explore the different gardens from African Plants to the Edible Garden and enjoy the vibrant colours that spring brings to the city. Spring Blossom Valley is in full bloom and ready to be admired during springtime only; truly a must-see for those crisp clear mornings and afternoons.
Matakana Village Farmers’ Markets
Where? Matakana Square, Matakana, Auckland
If you’re after some fresh local produce then you’ve come to the right place. The Matakana Markets offers the best sourced fruit, vegetables, flowers, live music and all things organic. We recommend the freshly brewed coffee, perfect for kick-starting your Saturdays, and enjoy the live music playing while you’re there.
Spring Fair Market
Where? Silverdale Hall, 7 Silverdale Street, Silverdale, Auckland
When? Sat 7 Oct 2017, 6:00am–1:00pm
Silverdale Market is holding a Spring Fair Stall holders will have specials and items at a discount. There is a to be a lucky shopper prize of a gift basket for those who make purchases of a certain value.
Although there is a regular Saturday Market at Silverdale, there Stall holders are making this a special one to celebrate Spring.
There is free parking in the Village and while you are here, take the chance for a coffee with a friend and good wholesome food at less than city prices.
The Pioneer village is also open from 10am to 3pm Silverdale village is only 15 mins from Albany.
Auckland Zoo
Where? Motions Rd, West Auckland
Animals of all species are springing into life at the zoo. If you’re on the animal trend but after a little more excitement from big creatures, then Auckland Zoo is the place to be this spring. Even better, admission for children under 4 is free. With school holidays coming up, they are celebrating all animals spotted or striped, and have some awesome programmes running that are definitely worth checking out.
Crystal Mountain
Where? 80 Candia Rd, Swanson, Auckland
This is a family day out at its finest. Crystal Mountain has so much on offer, from train rides to animal encounters; you can even explore the land for hidden crystals. The visitor’s pass includes one bag of food for you and your little ones to feed the farm animals with, and the extensive land offers the ideal energy burner on the weekends. Crystal Mountain really does cater for everyone and is on our list of favourites, for sure.
Auckland Domain – Winter Gardens
Where? 20 Park Road, Grafton
The Auckland Domain is home to the beautiful Winter Gardens, an indoor sanctuary where your kids can smell and touch all that nature has to offer. Spring brings the most vibrant flowers to the domain, so make a day of it and explore the museum or grab a bite to eat at the café nearby.
By Katie Pettigrew
Hero image: Auckland botanic gardens/ Potters children’s garden
