VOLCANOES OF AUCKLAND
The main attraction south of the city centre is Mount Eden Domain – a large crater of an extinct volcano. The massive crater is roughly 50m/164ft deep and is a spectacular sight. A walkway takes visitors around the crater – now covered in a blanket of beautiful green grass – and offers stunning 360 degree views of Auckland and surrounds. Mount Eden (Maungawhau) is one of nearly 50 volcanic cones scattered throughout the area, and at 196m/643ft it is also the highest, so don’t be surprised if you get blasted by the wind.
A little further south, is another of Auckland’s famous volcanic craters –Maungakiekie/One Tree Hill Domain, at a height of 182m/587ft. The site is one of the largest former Māori settlements in New Zealand, with three ancient pa’s (fortifications). On the summit is a large obelisk dedicated to Māori, which was unveiled in 1948, and at its base is the grave of Sir John Logan Campbell, regarded as the ‘Father of Auckland’. Next to the Domain is the wonderful Cornwall Park with its many walkways and picnic facilities.
For something less touristy, head to Mangere Domain, 14.5km/9miles south of the city. This is one of the largest and best preserved volcanic cones and is much quieter than Mount Eden and One Tree Hill. It offers magnificent views across the surrounding landscape and a walking track allows visitors to navigate their way around the crater. Just 2km/1mile west of Mangere Domain is the wonderful Ambury Regional Park , where many of the ancient lava flows and lava cavities can be seen. Mangere Mountain last erupted about 18,000 years ago.
BUTTERFLY CREEK
10 Tom Pearce Drive, Auckland Airport. +64-9-275 8880. Entrance fee. $$. Open 7 days. Apr-Oct 9:30am-5pm. Nov-Mar Mon-Fri 9:30am-5pm. Sat-Sun & Public Holidays 9am-5:30pm. Last entry one hour before close. Closed 25 & 26 Dec.
If you think Butterfly Creek is all about pretty little butterflies, think again. Giant dinosaurs line the pathways of the pre-historic Dinosaur Kingdom, some of them up to 24m/79ft in height. There are over 60 dinosaurs as part of the exhibit, many of them animatronics, and the Kingdom includes an indoor display of fossils and skeletons. It is also home to mythical and fantasy creatures, as well as live animals, including salt water crocodiles, farm animals, monkeys, reptiles, a bird aviary, nocturnal Kiwi House…. And of course, butterflies. Over 700 beautiful butterflies in a wonderful Butterfly House. Allow several hours to make the most of your visit.
