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Must-Do's in Māngere & Auckland Airport

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Manukau Must-Do's

Manukau Must-Do's

IMAGE ABOVE: Ōtuataua Stonefields © Scott Venning

> Ōtuataua Stonefields Historic Reserve – Home to large-scale volcanic remnants utilised by both mana whenua and European settlers, wander through the relics of this important archaeological site.

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TOP TIP: The Manukau Coastal Cycleway grazes the waterfront for 14km all the way to Ōtuataua Stonefields. No bike? No worries. Hire your wheels from Torpedo7 in Manukau.

> Māngere Mountain – Observe the remains of early Māori settlements and ramble up the crater. Not solely an ancient volcano with impressive 360-degree views, Māngere Mountain encompasses the Māngere Mountain Education Centre and gardens. If you have energy left in the tank, guided 90-minute walks are also available.

> Ambury Farm Park – Roam amongst the farm animals in this farm park located in the Ambury Regional Park. From July to August, you can feed the lambs and watch the calves being fed, with help from the park rangers. Better yet, it’s free.

> Māngere Arts Centre – This striking building is brimming with creativity. Home to Auckland’s Māori and Pacific visual and performing arts, there are two galleries and a theatre.

TOP TIP: The Community Café at Māngere Arts Centre is an affiliate of Affirming Works which provides mentoring and education to young Pacific residents. Grab a coffee and the proceeds will help bolster Tongan communities.

> Villa Maria Estate - South Auckland’s premier vineyard, renowned for its tasting room, fine dining and refined setting. The newly renamed Tasting Room combines wine tasting with small platters, served in the vineyard’s stately surroundings.

> Formula E – Indoor Go Karting – The only place in the country where you can drive a new generation, state-of-the-art, Italian designed indoor race cart

> Butterfly Creek Auckland Airport – Butterflies are just the beginning. Find wildlife of all shapes and sizes from giant crocodiles to a full petting zoo, not forgetting over 800 butterflies. Don’t miss the lifesize dinosaur park (thankfully fake – for now!) birdlife, lizards and a café.

Butterfly Creek © DWB

> The District Walkway and Sculpture Trail – Somewhat a hidden gem, this walkway is located behind Butterfly Creek and accessed via several entry points. Freckled with interesting artwork and perfect for a short stroll.

Want more? Visit https://aatraveller.co.nz/travel-guides and get planning.

Looking for a place to stay? Book accommodation at aa.travel.co.nz

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