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News | 11 March 2021
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Friday Five: Welly's top picnic spots

A flying fox, barbeques, your furry friends, and scenic views – only a few of the things that make some of our favourite Pōneke picnicking places so good. Check out our list!

A green grass area at Otari-Wilton's Bush, with people picnicking near a sheltered area on a sunny day.

1. Otari-Wilton’s Bush

Location: 150 Wilton Road, Wilton, Wellington 6012

With over 1,200 native plants, hybrids and cultivars, Otari-Wilton’s Bush has many spots where you can set up your perfect picnic. The deck in front of Leonard Cockayne Centre is a great place if you need accessibility options for your picnic guests.

Top tip from the Wellington City Council whānau: “Head straight to Troup Lawn where they have two barbecues to make your picnic extra delicious. It’s really the best spot!”

Furry friends are allowed but must be on a lead. For more barbecue spots see here.

2. Khandallah Park

Location: Woodmancote Road, Khandallah, Wellington 6035

Khandallah Park has one of the largest areas of native forest in our city. With 9 kilometres of walking tracks and 60 hectares of bush, as well as the ultimate flying fox, there are many fantastic activities you can do before you sit down for your picnic. 

Top tip from the Council whānau: “Go on a nice hot day, have a swim in the pool and then find a nice area to sit down by the flying fox and enjoy your picnic and afternoon activities.”

Furry friends are allowed but must be on a lead.

3. Willowbank Reserve

Location: 16 Boscobel Lane, Tawa, Wellington 5028

At Willowbank Reserve there is five hectares of lawn with plenty of room for your picnic and fun outdoor games with your family and friends. But that’s not all. This is the best spot to picnic when the weather isn’t too great outside, as it has two picnic tables under canopies that provide shelter from rain or sun. 

Top tip from the Council whānau: “Fruit trees, eels to feed in the stream, and a big lawn for activities. Enough said.”

Furry friends are allowed but must be on a lead, unless in the dedicated dog exercise area. Dogs not allowed in kids’ play areas.

 
A historic stone archway and path surrounded in bush at Truby King Park.

4. Truby King Park

Location: 21 Manchester Terrace, Melrose, Wellington 6023

A little bit of 1920’s history is tucked away here at Truby King Park with lovely picnic spots throughout, including a unique house and garden along the Southern Walkway. The architecture and design of the grounds are also perfectly created for strolling.

Furry friends are allowed but must be on a lead, unless in the dedicated dog exercise area.

5. Carrara Park

Location: Newtown, Wellington 6021

With the new playground and barbecue upgrade, Carrara Park is a great spot for the whole family to picnic together. 

Furry friends are not allowed in the kids’ play areas. If in other areas of the grounds, they must be on a lead at all times.