Auckland is often quieter over summer making it a great place to relax and recharge. Here are four ways to get a bit of peace and quiet this summer in Auckland.

1. Go bird watching

Auckland is home to some beautiful native birds. Check out some of our favourite bird watching spots and the birdwatching spots our Facebook friends shared.

You can also head to Tiritiri Mairangi Island, a wildlife sanctuary located 30km north-east of central Auckland, and just 4km from the end of the Whangaparāoa Peninsula. As well as wonderful wildlife, Tiritiri Matangi has a lighthouse, visitor centre, some great walks, views and beaches.

2. Soak in a natural hot pool

Great Barrier Island is the perfect place to get away from it all and when you're there you have to head to Kaitoke Hot Springs. The springs are in a bush stream, a short walk from the car park.

3. Head to a park with an eBook or eMagazine

Auckland Libraries has one of the most popular eBook collections in the world. They have over 200,000 eBooks and eAudiobooks and 700 eMagazine titles in its digital collection. Check out the Auckland Libraries’ eCollections and set yourself up for some summer holiday reading.

4. Wander through a beautiful garden

Auckland is home to some beautiful gardens including the Parnell Rose Gardens, the Domain Wintergardens and the Auckland Botanical Gardens which is hosting Sculpture in the Gardens this summer.