Spanning 64-hectares in Manurewa, Auckland Botanic Gardens (aucklandbotanicgardens.co.nz) is South Auckland’s premier attraction. Come on the weekend and you’ll see the full ethnic diversity of the Southside on display, with kids running around, dogs on leashes and family groups stretching out.
Start at the Huakaiwaka Visitor Centre where you can pick up a free map, view botanical-themed art in the gallery and fuel up at the cafe. From here the Pacific Pathway connects to various themed paths. In summer and autumn, make a beeline for the roses. In winter and spring, head for the camellias, magnolias and spring blossom valley. There’s also an interesting native plant section, including a garden devoted to threatened plants. Keep walking to reach the Gondwana Arboretum and a patch of native forest enclosing a stream and waterfall.
Allow at least an hour for the formal gardens; two if you want to explore the forest as well.
