There’s nothing quite like a summer’s day in Tāmaki Makaurau – sun shining, tuis singing, pōhutukawa trees in full bloom. And what better way to make the most of the warmer days than by stepping outdoors and enjoying our local parks with friends and whānau?

Here’s 8 top tips to make the most of our beautiful green spaces:

1. Be a park pro, know before you go

Don’t leave your adventure to chance! Every park is uniquely wonderful and as such they each have their own specific rules. Check the park’s official website to know the lay of the land before you arrive, like what activities are permitted or catered for, dog rules, best places to park - even what facilities are available on site. Knowing the park-specific rules ensures a smooth and stress-free visit for everyone.

2. Plan your day

A little planning goes a long way. Research your chosen activities – be it a scenic hike or a picnic. Estimate the track duration, necessary equipment and travel time. Most importantly, commit to safety first! Review the land safety code and water safety code, check the weather, pack sun protection, ample water and appropriate gear to set yourself up for a great day outdoors.

3. Help us protect our taonga

We’ve got access to a beautiful natural environment here in Tāmaki Makaurau, let’s protect these spaces as the taonga that they are. Help us prevent the spread of pests and diseases. Come to parks with soil free equipment and shoes, and ensure no pests are stowed away in any gear; use kauri dieback hygiene stations whenever you come across them, so that we may all enjoy our parks now and for future generations to come.

4. Sizzle safely and follow the fire rules

The smell of a BBQ is a classic summer moment, but safety is paramount. Open fires are strictly prohibited at all times. In open fire season, you can use solid fuel BBQs (like charcoal BBQs) in designated picnic areas, just remember you’ll need to pack your own fuel. Manage your ashes responsibly; bring a container, fully extinguish the ashes with water (often available on-site) and take them home for disposal.

Remember to sizzle safely and never leave hot ashes unattended.

For more information on fire safety, visit the Check Its Alright website. 

5. Leave only footprints and take your rubbish home

Let’s keep our parks pristine and stunning for all to enjoy. Minimise the rubbish you bring by removing excess packaging at home first. Take every single piece of waste home with you, including dog waste and dog waste bags; note there are no bins in Regional Parks so plan accordingly to help protect the wildlife and keep our green spaces clean.

6. Listen to the sounds of nature