Ponsonby picnic and hang out spots for locals
Summer, ahhhhh, and with daylight saving well underway think long, sunny evenings and lazy weekends relaxing outdoors. And so many gorgeous green havens, sandy nooks and glorious views to take advantage of right here in Ponsonby. Whether out picnicking with friends, taking a walk, or on the hunt for a place to clear your mind, there are oodles of places to choose from!
I will share just five of my favourites:
1. Herne Bay beaches - these beaches, dotted along the shoreline of Herne Bay, can be found at the end of Herne Bay Road, Cremorne Street, Wallace Street, Sentinel Road and Hamilton Road. There is an excellent range to choose from, but my ultimate favourite is Herne Bay Road beach. I’ve been going there since I was two. Sitting on this gorgeous little patch of sand with the sun setting and a parcel of fish & chips is like living the Kiwi dream. Normally the beach is not too crowded but at some points in the summer you will find quite a few visitors paddle boarding, taking a refreshing dip in the sea or sharing a delicious picnic with family and friends. Nevertheless, there’s always room for locals and anyone dropping into the neighbourhood.
2. Brown’s Reserve - located on Brown Street, just a stone’s throw from the amazing Ponsonby Central, is a petite park with lush greens, lots of seating and a couple of swings. My friends and I have found this to be an ideal place for a weekend lunch picnic after a busy morning shopping. Just pick up some delights from Ponsonby Central and eat them in the quiet comfort of a relaxing, natural setting.
3. Salisbury Reserve - located at the end of Salisbury Street in Herne Bay, is a green paradise. Growing up next door to Salisbury Reserve has meant it’s like an extension of my backyard. It is huge with loads of space for different activities. Over the years it has provided me with a perfect little kid’s playground, trees to climb, a safe place to ride my scooter and bike and roomy spaces for school picnics and birthday celebrations. And now the more private areas offer a secluded zone to have a picnic with friends or read a book. It is also home to Auckland’s main Petanque club, which can be rented out for functions. I am so lucky to have such a diverse, beautiful park over my fence.
4. Westhaven Marina - located at the end of Curran Street in Ponsonby, is a fantastic waterfront park and a path with seating, which also doubles as the beginning of a walking track that meanders around the marina. Looking out towards the water you can see the Harbour Bridge close up, and in the distance the charming Chelsea Sugar Refinery resplendent in tones of dusky pink, (a perfect accessory to the sunset!). It is a lovely calming view which can be enjoyed from dawn to dusk. Come down here for an early run or bike ride, perhaps a nice evening stroll, maybe a bit of ‘me’ time, or even some fishing. And if you come at night to watch the sunset, when the sky has darkened the bridge lights up in pretty colours!
5. Cox’s Bay - located in West End Road in Westmere is another park that is a great place for some action-filled fun (think frisbie, cricket, soccer or any frivolous casual game). There are also multiple tracks for walking, running, biking or exercising the dog (I remember plodding these paths from primary school cross-country days.) But it’s also perfect for chilling with friends. Bring down some blankets and watch the sun set over the stunning view of the bay. It’s a pretty social place, so you might even bump into someone you know! (Honour Mitchell)
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