Western Springs
Western Springs
Just a hop, skip and a jump from Auckland’s CBD lies Western Springs Park, an inner city oasis perfect for unwinding from the city’s hustle and bustle and immersing yourself in nature’s embrace.
Western Springs Park revolves around a serene lake teeming with carp, eels,and a plethora of birds. From graceful swans, ducks and geese to lively pigeons and pūkeko, this park offers a paradise for bird photographers and appreciators alike. The best way to explore is to embark on the delightful 1.75km trail encircling the lake, treating yourself to picturesque vistas, perfect picnicking spots and an impressive state-of-the-art playground for the little ones.
Next to the playground is the enchanting Fukoaka Garden, a serene and captivating Japanese garden accessible to the public daily from 10 am to 5:30 pm. Just like the park, it’s free to visit, and it offers an exquisite display of over 1800 native Japanese and New Zealand plant species, along with mesmerising bonsai trees, a tranquil pond and a charming tea pavilion.
The park conveniently offers picnic tables and barbecues as well as essential amenities like toilets, changing rooms and drinking fountains, also being thoughtfully provided within the park. Even during bustling times, you can always find a peaceful nook under the shade of leafy trees or amidst the lush grass to unwind and recharge.
Next to the park, you'll find both the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT) and Auckland Zoo, keeping the kids more than entertained for a day. Also adjacent, Western Springs stadium plays host to thrilling rugby matches and concerts, and the stadium’s Outer Fields transforms into a vibrant festival and show venue, welcoming acclaimed acts like Lorde, Jack Johnson, and My Chemical Romance in recent times. With such diverse entertainment options right at its doorstep, the park truly becomes a one-stop shop for endless family fun.
Getting to Western Springs is simple: take a train to the nearby Morningside station and catch a bus to Western Springs, or take a bus directly to the park from Auckland CBD or neighbouring suburbs. Drivers can park on Western Springs Road - plenty of parking is available.
Words by Nicole Mudgway & Photography by Nancy Zhou
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Western Springs
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