Fords Park is Auckland’s best-kept secret—a lush forested escape where urban noise fades into silence. Birdsong weaves through the trees, streams gurgle over mossy stones, and hidden waterfalls peek through the foliage. Wander the winding trails, stumble upon an old bridge, and feel like you’ve stepped into a quiet film scene. Here, peace isn’t rare—it’s the norm.




















Everything you need to know about Fowlds Park
Near Mount Eden Reserve, consider staying at The Langham Auckland, a luxury hotel just a 5-minute walk from the park’s entrance. It offers spacious rooms with panoramic views of the reserve and city skyline, along with an indoor pool and rooftop terrace. For budget-friendly options, Parkside Hotel Auckland provides comfortable accommodations close to walking trails and public transit.
The reserve is well-connected by bus lines and features scenic cycling paths linking it to downtown Auckland and other attractions like the waterfront and museums. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring both natural beauty and urban highlights.
Visitors to Mount Eden Reserve can explore the historic volcanic crater trail, offering sweeping views of Auckland’s skyline and harbor. The reserve hosts the annual Auckland Flower Show, showcasing native flora and horticultural artistry in spring. Families will appreciate the interactive playgrounds and outdoor yoga sessions held regularly.
Unique experiences include guided tours of old military fortifications, revealing colonial-era defense systems. At night, join the Stargazing Events, where low light pollution creates perfect conditions for observing constellations. Don’t forget your camera—sunset views over the city and sea make for unforgettable photos.
The easiest way from Auckland CBD to Mount Eden Reserve is via the free City Rail Link tram or Bus Route 106, both taking about 15 minutes to reach the park entrance. For a more scenic option, rent a Baymiles shared e-bike and ride along tree-lined paths and riverside trails—approximately 20 minutes.
The reserve has ample parking, though spots fill quickly on weekends, so HopeGoo ahead is recommended. Clear signage guides visitors to trails and facilities. For a deeper experience, join a guided eco-walk, led by local naturalists who share insights on native birds, plants, and geological history—perfect for nature lovers seeking educational adventure.
The Park Royal Hotel Auckland is an excellent choice located just a 10-minute drive from Forsyth Barr Park, offering spacious family rooms and an indoor pool. The hotel features child-friendly amenities and is adjacent to walking trails and picnic areas within the park, perfect for family outings. Convenient transportation options include shuttle services from the airport via bus or taxi, with numerous restaurants and cafés nearby. Additional perks include free parking and luggage storage, ideal for extended travelers.
HopeGoo in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
From Auckland International Airport, take a private transfer or pre-booked taxi, which takes about 25 minutes and costs NZ$60–$80. Alternatively, board the Airport Express Bus to downtown and transfer to a local bus line (e.g., Route 270), taking around 45 minutes with a $10 fare. For self-drive, use navigation apps to set "Forsyth Barr Park" as your destination—clear signage guides you through. Free parking is available at the hotel and nearby shopping centers.
We recommend the Air New Zealand Airport Shuttle for door-to-door convenience, especially for travelers with heavy luggage.
Forsyth Barr Park features multi-use sports fields, walking paths, and waterfront trails, making it ideal for morning runs or leisurely strolls. The park includes a children’s playground and open green lawns, perfect for picnics and community gatherings. During summer, the park hosts outdoor music festivals and local markets, drawing crowds of locals and tourists alike. Nearby, the Auckland Botanic Gardens offers guided eco-tours, showcasing native flora and conservation efforts.
Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, and carry water for a full-day nature experience. Some events require pre-registration—check the official website for details.
Most hotels near Forsyth Barr Park provide complimentary buffet breakfasts featuring freshly baked pastries, local dairy products, fruit platters, and freshly brewed coffee. For example, The Park Royal Hotel Auckland serves breakfast daily from 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM, blending Kiwi flavors with international options suitable for all dietary preferences. Some upscale properties even feature outdoor breakfast terraces overlooking the park’s greenery.
Special dietary needs such as gluten-free or vegan meals are accommodated upon request. Confirm HopeGoo packages, as some include breakfast and help reduce overall costs.
Forsyth Barr Park features several Instagram-worthy locations, including the art sculpture installations and glasshouse garden, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset. The circular walking path flanked by vibrant seasonal flowers offers dynamic backdrops throughout the year. Near the entrance, a public art wall blends Māori motifs with contemporary design, rich in cultural significance.
Bring a tripod and wide-angle lens for panoramic shots. Weekends often feature street performers, providing great opportunities for candid, storytelling photos.
Yes, Forsyth Barr Park connects to Auckland’s city-wide bike network, featuring a dedicated cycling trail spanning about 2 km with smooth, well-marked surfaces—ideal for beginners and families. Rest stops and rental kiosks are available, offering e-bikes and child seats. The route toward the Harbour Bridge follows a scenic riverside path, providing views of Auckland’s harbor.
Some sections are part of the BayCycle bike-sharing system, accessible via smartphone app. Ride early in the morning to avoid peak congestion. Always check equipment and follow traffic rules for safety.
Yes, Forsyth Barr Park features a smart energy-efficient lighting system with warm-toned lights along pathways and key attractions, ensuring safety and comfort without glare. The lighting enhances ambiance while maintaining visibility. After 6 PM, the park sees fewer visitors, making it ideal for quiet strolls or reading.
Benches and sheltered rest areas are available for short breaks. We recommend wearing reflective clothing or carrying a small flashlight for added safety. Park patrols operate regularly to maintain nighttime security.
See what other travelers say about Fowlds Park

Stayed here for two nights right after arriving at the airport, and it was an excellent choice. The hostess was incredibly friendly and helpful—she greeted us warmly and offered great local recommendations for nearby restaurants. Our room was beautifully decorated with a charming British ambiance, cozy and spotless. The breakfast was exceptional: fresh, delicious, and served with care. Located just minutes from downtown Auckland, it’s perfect for exploring the city. I highly recommend this gem—it’s a standout in every way.

Staying at Aachen House Boutique was an absolute delight from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from Westfield shopping centre and Mt. Eden, with countless great restaurants just one block away. The neighbourhood itself feels safe, quiet, and full of charm, making it one of the most desirable areas in Auckland. The owners are genuinely warm and welcoming—so kind and thoughtful, it feels like staying at a friend’s home rather than a hotel. The room was spacious, impeccably clean, and well-appointed, offering a perfect balance of comfort and style. If you're looking for a unique boutique experience with a personal touch, this place is a must-try. I can’t recommend it enough—there’s something special about every detail here that truly makes your stay unforgettable.

My stay at Nyima Tashi Buddhist Centre was absolutely wonderful—truly one of the best experiences I've had in New Zealand. The entire building is spotless, with a clean and peaceful atmosphere that immediately put me at ease. The staff were incredibly warm and welcoming, offering fresh coffee and fruit upon arrival—a thoughtful touch that made the experience feel personal. While the bathrooms are shared, they’re spacious, well-maintained, and kept immaculately clean—no complaints here. Located just minutes from downtown Auckland via public transit, it’s convenient without sacrificing serenity. The surrounding area is quiet and spiritually calming, perfect for a mindful getaway. With its exceptional cleanliness, genuine hospitality, and unbeatable value, this place truly stands out. I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for a serene, authentic stay in Auckland.

Staying at Haka House Auckland City was an absolute highlight of my trip to Auckland! The location is perfect—right in the heart of the city, super convenient for public transport and close to major attractions. I loved the shared kitchen—it’s well-equipped and made it easy to cook meals, which saved me money and added a fun social vibe. The atmosphere is great, with travelers from all over the world, making it easy to meet new people and exchange travel tips. I slept really well—comfortable beds and good sound insulation meant a peaceful night. It’s not just affordable; it’s one of the best values I’ve experienced. I’ll definitely be back here on my next visit to Auckland. Highly recommend!

We absolutely fell in love with the charm and location of this charming guest house! The historic building has such character, and being just a short walk from the city center makes it incredibly convenient. If you're after a view, rooms #5 and #9 are definitely worth requesting—those city vistas are unforgettable. The property is well-maintained and full of old-world elegance. While staff presence is minimal, it didn’t detract from our stay at all—we found it easy to navigate on our own and appreciated the quiet, peaceful atmosphere. It’s the perfect choice for travelers who value comfort, authenticity, and a bit of quiet retreat in the heart of Auckland.

Located in the heart of Auckland's CBD, this Haka House property is a bit of a drive from the airport—about an hour on average, so plan accordingly. I’ve stayed at several Haka House locations before, and this one maintains the brand’s consistent vibe and cleanliness. That said, the mattress here was a letdown for me—it wobbled noticeably even with slight movement. A light roll over felt like being on a rocking boat, which definitely disrupted my sleep quality. If you’re sensitive to bed stability, it might be worth requesting a different room or checking reviews for other floor plans. Still, the staff were friendly, the space was well-maintained, and overall, it’s a solid choice for travelers who value location and local character, despite that minor drawback.

I highly recommend this serviced apartment to anyone visiting Auckland, especially if you're attending a concert. The venue is literally next door—after the show, we walked straight back to the hotel without needing a car. My friend stayed here and loved every minute of it: clean, comfortable rooms with all the essentials, and a great location right in the heart of the city. What surprised me most was how affordable it was for such a central spot. If you're looking for convenience, comfort, and value, this place is a top pick. I’ll definitely be booking again on my next trip.

We stayed in a family room with our kids, and the space was absolutely spacious—perfect for us with one queen bed and a single bed. The bedding was clean and fresh, and the bathroom was spotless. Having 24-hour hot water made mornings so convenient, especially when we wanted a quick cup of tea or coffee. The room came equipped with a kettle, microwave, toaster, and fridge—ideal for preparing simple breakfasts without leaving the hotel. Location-wise, it couldn’t be better: just an 8-minute walk to Westfield Shopping Centre, a 3-minute stroll to the bus stop (with routes 30, 70, and 309 directly connecting to the city center), and only 10 minutes to Newmarket Train Station. Everything is within easy reach, making travel around Auckland super smooth. We loved the comfort, cleanliness, and practicality of this place. Highly recommend it for families looking for convenience and value—definitely booking here again on our next visit.

Staying at Greenlane Motel in Auckland was a really positive experience. The location is super convenient—just a short 20-minute commute to the city center by train, and there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores nearby, making it easy to explore on foot. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with a cozy bed that made for a great night's sleep. I appreciated the good sound insulation too—no noise from neighboring rooms. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout check-in and check-out. Overall, this place offers excellent value for money compared to other motels in the area. If you're visiting Auckland and looking for a reliable, no-frills stay, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a try.

Staying at LyLo Auckland was a fantastic experience overall. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from major city attractions, with easy access to bus stops, the ferry terminal, and nearby supermarkets. The room was clean, quiet, and well-designed with individual capsule-style beds and secure lockers, offering great privacy and peace of mind. Bathrooms and toilets are plentiful and kept immaculately clean, which is always a plus in shared accommodations. I appreciated the free luggage storage option—perfect for early arrivals or late departures. The only downsides were the small, slightly cluttered kitchen with limited facilities, and only two hairdryers available for all guests, which caused some inconvenience during peak times. Still, these minor issues don’t take away from the excellent value and comfort this property offers. Highly recommend for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize location and cleanliness.

Staying at Verandahs Parkside Lodge was an absolute delight. The property is immaculately clean and thoughtfully maintained, with a warm, welcoming atmosphere from the moment you arrive. The host went above and beyond by personally showing us around the surroundings, sharing local insights, hidden gems, and nearby attractions with genuine enthusiasm. It felt less like a stay and more like being welcomed into a local’s home. Located just minutes from public transit, it’s easy to explore Auckland’s vibrant city center, while still enjoying a quiet, peaceful retreat. The attention to detail, combined with such a friendly and knowledgeable host, made this experience truly special. If you’re looking for a comfortable, authentic, and well-located place to stay in Auckland, this is a must-book.

Staying at City Lodge Accommodation in Auckland was an absolute highlight of my trip! The location is fantastic—just a short walk from Queen Street and the waterfront, making it super convenient for exploring the city. I arrived from the international airport via the North Line train and then transferred to the NX1 bus, which took about an hour. With an AT Hop card, the fare was only around $5—great value for such a smooth journey. The room is on the smaller side, but perfectly functional with smart space utilization. What really stood out was the shared kitchen—it’s fully equipped and perfect for cooking up a storm. I even joined a group of fellow travelers to make and bake pizza together (check photos 2 and 3)—such a fun, social vibe! The area right outside the front door (photo 1) is clean, safe, and welcoming. Plus, the building is quiet at night, so sleep quality was excellent. Overall, this place offers great value, a friendly atmosphere, and unbeatable convenience. Ideal for solo travelers or small groups looking to connect and explore Auckland like a local.
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