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News | 18 December 2024
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Five top picnic spots in Wellington

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.

Group of people having a picnic in the park.

Check out our list of places to go, and see more details below.

  1. Otari-Wilton’s Bush
  2. Khandallah Park
  3. Willowbank Reserve
  4. Truby King Park
  5. Carrara Park
Person walking in the gardens with a backpack on.
Ōtari-Wilton's Bush.

1. Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush

Location: 150 Wilton Road, Wilton, Wellington 6012

With over 1,200 native plants, hybrids and cultivars, Ōtari-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: Head straight to Troup Lawn where they have two barbecues to make your picnic extra delicious.

Furry friends are allowed but must be on a lead.

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: Go on a 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 are 5 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: Check out the fruit trees, see the eels in the stream, and bring along games as there is a big lawn for activities.

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

Truby King Park house with a brick fence out front.
Truby King House and Garden includes a unique house and garden nestled in Wellington’s Melrose hills along the Southern Walkway.

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.

Top Tip: Wander round the garden to see the unique design of the estate, and check out the stunning lookout over Lyall Bay.

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 an exciting playground and barbecues for use, Carrara Park is a great spot for the whole family to picnic together. 

Top tip: Cook up a storm on the barbeque for your next picnic!

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.