The Top 17 Picnic Spots in Auckland
Jessica McNamara
| Last Updated: November 2023 Have you ever tried to have a picnic in the middle of a bustling city? Believe me, it’s not as fun as it sounds – and I’d know.
After all, I’m the person who once tried to have a picnic lunch near Auckland’s Queen Street during rush hour. Let’s just say I quickly realised why pigeons are the only ones who try to eat there.
But don’t worry! Auckland is full of tranquil, picturesque spots that are much better for a picnic. And I’ve put together a list of the best ones, so you don’t have to learn the hard way like I did.
1. Auckland Domain
Address: Park Road, Parnell, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: +64 9 301 0101
Set right in the heart of the city, Auckland Domain is an oasis of calm amidst the hustle and bustle. Just picture it: you’ve got your picnic basket full of all your favourite snacks, maybe a nice chilled bottle of something bubbly.
And you can’t beat the views here. Looking out over the harbour, you’ve got a front-row seat to the beautiful Auckland skyline.
Not to mention, when you’re done eating, there’s so much to explore. The Wintergardens, with their exotic plants and flowers, are a must-visit. And the Auckland War Memorial Museum is right there in the park too.
Pro Tip:
If you’re looking for a more secluded spot at Auckland Domain, try heading to the far side of the Duck Ponds. It’s a bit out of the way and often overlooked, but it’s one of the quietest and most peaceful spots in the park.
2. Maukatia Bay
This beautiful bay, also known as Maori Bay, is a true hidden gem on Auckland’s west coast.
Sit on the warm sand and watch the waves gently lap at your feet while the sun is shining. Make yourself a delicious sandwich (or whatever your preferred picnic food may be!).
And if you’re a nature lover, you’re in luck. Native bush surrounds Maukatia Bay, which is well-known for its gannet colony. So, keep an eye out for those beautiful birds!
Pro Tip:
For the surfers amongst us, the bay is also home to some fantastic surf breaks. So, bring a surfboard along and catch a wave after your meal.
3. Castor Bay Beach
Address: 5/7 The Esplanade, Castor Bay, Auckland 0620, New Zealand
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: +64 9 301 0101
Castor Bay Beach is a quiet, secluded beach with stunning views over the Hauraki Gulf and Rangitoto Island—the perfect backdrop for a leisurely lunch.
After you’ve finished your picnic, take a stroll along the beach or even take a dip in the sea. Or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, you can take the coastal walkway to Milford.
Pro Tip:
Visit Castor Bay Beach during low tide for safer swimming.
4. Cornwall Park
Address: Green Lane West, Epsom, Auckland 1051, New Zealand
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 8 PM
Phone: +64 9 630 8485
This park is a true green sanctuary, smack in the middle of Auckland. It’s so expansive that even on busy days, you can easily find a quiet spot to lay down your picnic blanket.
Go to One Tree Hill. A picnic here isn’t complete without a leisurely stroll (or a more vigourous hike, if you’re up for it!) up to the summit. The panoramic views of the city are absolutely breathtaking and well worth the effort.
Pro Tip:
If you’re a fan of cherry blossoms, plan your picnic in late September or early October. Cornwall Park’s cherry blossom trees are a sight to behold when they’re in full bloom.
5. Point Erin Park
Address: 94 Shelly Beach Road, Westhaven, Auckland 1011, New Zealand
Hours: Open 24 hours
Ever fancied a picnic with a stunning view of Auckland Harbour Bridge? Well, Point Erin Park is the place for you!
You can set your blanket down on the grass, unpack your favourite picnic foods, and soak in the picturesque scene of the bustling harbour and the magnificent bridge.
And for the kids, Point Erin Park also has a playground that they will love.
Pro Tip:
There’s a public swimming pool right next door. So, once you’ve had your fill of sandwiches, fruit, and whatever else you’ve packed, enjoy a splash in the pool!
6. Mt Eden
Located in the heart of Auckland, this ancient volcanic cone offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city and beyond. How’s that for a picnic backdrop?
As you spread your picnic blanket and lay out your feast, you’ll find yourself almost 200 metres above sea level. From here, you can see all the way to the Hauraki Gulf and Hillsborough Bay.
After you’ve finished your picnic, take the time to explore the summit and the walking tracks. It’s a great way to walk off those picnic calories!
Pro Tip:
If you’re driving, remember that vehicles aren’t allowed on the summit. But don’t worry, there’s a car park at the base, and the walk up is part of the Mt Eden experience!
7. Bastion Point
Bastion Point, with its panoramic views of the Waitemata Harbour and the Hauraki Gulf, is certainly one of the most scenic picnic spots in all of Auckland.
There’s more to do here than just eat, though. Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Park is a great place to explore before or after your picnic. The memorial honours New Zealand’s first Labour Prime Minister and includes a beautiful garden and a reflecting pool—a serene setting for some post-picnic relaxation.
Pro Tip:
Don’t forget to bring your camera along! The views from Bastion Point are some of the best in Auckland and are well worth capturing.
8. Mt Taylor
Mt Taylor offers a surprisingly rural experience given its urban location. Thanks to its elevated position above the surrounding suburbs, it provides fantastic views of the city and the Tamaki River.
The climb to the top is a bit of a trek, but it’s manageable for most fitness levels, and the view at the top is well worth the effort. The walking track winds through a mix of native bush and open grassland, making it a lovely spot for a leisurely stroll before or after your meal.
One of the best things about Mt Taylor is the abundance of space. There are plenty of grassy areas to spread out your picnic blanket and relax. And if you’ve got kids in tow, they’ll love the freedom to run around and explore.
Pro Tip:
Don’t forget to pack a jacket! Even on sunny days, it can get a bit windy at the top. And remember, while it’s beautiful at any time of the day, try to time your picnic for sunset.
9. Bucklands Beach
This tranquil spot has breathtaking views of the Hauraki Gulf and the iconic Rangitoto Island, making it a favourite among locals and tourists alike. The beach is well-maintained and clean, ensuring a pleasant picnic experience.
Watch the sailboats bob gently in the water and listen to the soothing sound of the waves lapping the shore as you enjoy your picnic.
Afterwards, take a refreshing swim, or if you prefer, take a stroll along the shoreline.
Pro Tip:
Keep an eye out for oystercatchers and dotterels, which can often be seen along the water’s edge.
10. Western Springs Park
Address: 731 Great North Road, Western Springs, Auckland 1022, New Zealand
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: +64 9 301 0101
Western Springs’ peaceful lake, strolling peacocks, and lush greenery make it a tranquil escape from city life—the perfect place for a picnic. Lay your picnic blanket by the lake, under the shade of a tree, or near one of the park’s many flower gardens.
And after you’ve enjoyed your lunch, there’s plenty to explore, including the Auckland Zoo, the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT), and several walking trails.
Pro Tip:
If you’re a bird enthusiast, remember to bring your binoculars. Western Springs is home to a variety of bird species, including swans, geese, and ducks.
11. Mission Bay Beach
Mission Bay Beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike, with its stunning views of Rangitoto Island and the Hauraki Gulf. The beach is lined with beautiful pohutukawa trees, providing plenty of shade for picnics.
After your meal, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach, play a game of beach volleyball, or even rent a kayak or paddleboard for some water-based fun.
Pro Tip:
Mission Bay Beach can get quite busy, especially on weekends and public holidays. So if you prefer a quieter picnic, it might be worth visiting on a weekday or arriving early to beat the crowds.
12. Rangitoto Island
Rangitoto Island offers a unique picnic experience with its volcanic landscapes and panoramic views of Auckland. After a short ferry ride, you can enjoy a picnic amidst the native forest or at the summit with stunning views of the Hauraki Gulf.
Afterwards, explore the lava caves and the historic community on the island.
Pro Tip:
There are no shops on the island, so be sure to pack everything you need for your picnic!
13. Piha Beach
For those who adore the untamed beauty of rugged coastlines and the distinctive charm of black sand beaches, Piha Beach is the ideal picnic location. This spot is a haven where the wild, raw beauty of nature can be enjoyed in all its glory.
Once you’ve satisfied your appetite, head to Lion Rock, where the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape are bound to leave you in awe. The majestic vistas extend as far as the eye can see, offering an unmatched perspective of Piha Beach.
Pro Tip:
Piha Beach is known for its strong currents, so be careful if you decide to take a dip.
14. Albert Park
Address: 33-43 Princes Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: +64 9 301 0101
Albert Park, located in the heart of the city, is an oasis of calm amidst the hustle and bustle of city life. The park is well-maintained, and its beautiful flower beds and mature trees provide a tranquil setting for your picnic.
After your meal, explore the park’s Victorian fountain, floral clock, or statue of Queen Victoria.
Pro Tip:
For the history enthusiasts amongst us, the park houses WWII air raid shelters and gun emplacements. Taking a tour of these relics will transport you back to a time when the park served as a crucial part of the city’s defence system.
15. Coyle Park
Address: 528 Point Chevalier Road, Point Chevalier, Auckland 1022, New Zealand
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: +64 9 301 0101
This stunning waterfront park in Point Chevalier provides an idyllic setting for a picnic. The park’s expansive green area is perfect for laying out a picnic blanket and enjoying a leisurely meal.
The views of the Waitemata Harbour are stunning, and the park is also equipped with plenty of amenities, including a playground, making it an excellent choice for families.
Pro Tip:
After your picnic, take a walk along the beach or enjoy a game of frisbee on the large open field.
16. Herne Bay Beach
Address: Herne Bay Road, Herne Bay, Auckland 1011, New Zealand
Hours: Open 24 hours
Herne Bay Beach, with its calm waters and stunning views of the Waitemata Harbour, is a fantastic spot for a picnic. It’s less crowded than other city beaches, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a quiet and peaceful picnic spot.
After your meal, you can take a dip in the sea or simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the view.
17. Long Bay Regional Park
Address: Beach Road, Long Bay, Auckland 0792, New Zealand
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 6 AM to 9 PM
Phone: +64 9 301 0101
Long Bay Regional Park, situated on Auckland’s North Shore, is a popular spot for picnics with its long stretch of sandy beach and ample grassy areas.
The park’s backdrop of native bush and stunning views out to the Hauraki Gulf make it a picturesque spot for an outdoor meal. Post-picnic, you can explore the park’s historic Vaughan Homestead or take a walk along the nature trail.
Pro Tip:
The park gets quite busy during the summer months, so it’s advisable to get there early to secure a good spot.
