Best Hidden Gems in Auckland

New Zealand Warbirds Association is a museum solely dedicated to all the aircrafts that were used for some of the most crucial battles that were fought. The museum commemorates the contribution that was given by these aircrafts in winning battles. Here you will get to see the real workings of these aircrafts and an in depth knowledge on their types and kinds. The New Zealand Warbirds Association museum is a great place to visit if you are truly interested in learning more about the guardians of the skies.

Ambury has been farmed for hundreds of years, first by Maori and then by Europeans. Today Ambury Farm (133 hectares) is a working farm, stocked primarily with horses, sheep and cattle. Its location on Manukau Harbour also makes it a popular destination with bird watchers who look for godwit and knot as well as pied oyster catchers and wrybill. Feed the baby farm animals, see demonstrations of sheep shearing and wood chopping, ride a pony or a tractor!

Potter Children's Garden is your child's heaven for a lot of reasons. Some of the reasons being the infinite opportunities to get to know a numerous species of plants and flowers. The kids can get to learn a lot about the native species and plants. You can also learn various rain water harvesting methods and other sustainable activities like treatment of salt water. Sp spend a day immersed in nature and goodness of greenery, at Potter Children's Garden.

Ensconced by native forest, Lake Wainamu is a hidden gem worth the find. It is one of the three dune lakes near Te Henga (Bethells Beach). It is rugged and beautiful with its black sand dunes and hilly landscape, giving it an enchanted feel. One can either walk through the hot dunes or follow the Waiti Stream's trail to reach the lake. There is even a circular trail which will take you through a lovely waterfall and then to the lake. Take a refreshing dip in the lake if you know to swim as the water is deep. You can even sand surf on the sloping dunes. There are marked tracks around the dunes and from the road, just follow them to reach this secluded oasis.

Basque Park is flanked by four streets and is a large expanse of open space. Formerly a gully and a land used by a few urban farmers, it was converted to a public park and landscaped by a local architect. Its gentle contours are accentuated by nikau palms and mature trees. The water element surrounded by five rocks embodies the Southern Cross constellation of five stars. Surrounded by buildings, this park is quite hidden. It is also used for the annual Music in the Park event.

Otuataua Stonefields is the city's last volcanic location. Scenic in every sense, it is truly a hidden gem when it comes to getting to know a little more about the stone work and flora fauna, surrounding the place. This picturesque archaeological site, promises anyone who visits it, a wonderful experience, owing to its rich wildlife and other nature's bounties.

Crystal Mine Museum at Crystal Mountain takes pride in its vast collection of crystals. One of the largest museums for crystals, the place houses crystals that weigh around 2,000 kg. Here you will get to see and learn about various precious and semi precious crystals. These crystals have been imported from various corners of the world and displayed here. So, if you have a keen fancy for various crystals, do visit Crystal Mine Museum at Crystal Mountain.