A pleasant walk around Western Springs Lakeside Park and the tranquil Fukuoka Garden.

Start at the park entrance on Great North Road (easily accessible via the frequent bus service). Watch out for trams as you cross!

Follow the loop path through the park and around the lake. You'll have plenty of opportunities to view birds up close, including ducks, geese and pūkeko.

While some areas of the park are very popular, it's easy to find a spot away from the crowds to enjoy some peace and quiet. There are plenty of shaded seating areas and picnic tables located around the park, plus a few barbecues if you want to make a day of it.

Don't miss the breathtaking Fukuoka Garden (entry is free), with tea pavilion, waterfall and pond. The garden features over 1800 native Japanese and New Zealand species and bonsai trees, paving stones, lanterns and a water basin. The garden replaces the original Fukuoka Friendship Garden built in Auckland Zoo, which was given to Auckland in 1989 from Japan’s Fukuoka City in recognition of the sister-city relationship.

The large children's playground has activities to suit busy kids of all ages. It's located next to Auckland Zoo, so you might even spot an elephant through the fence!