Top picks:

• Search for gifts at the Otara market on Saturday morning
• Take a roller coaster ride at New Zealand’s greatest family theme park
• See over 10,000 plants at the Auckland Botanic Gardens

Fact file:

• Manukau is home to the biggest Polynesian community in the world
• Manukau Harbour is the second largest harbour in New Zealand
• The stingray, Kaiwhare, is now the guardian of Manukau Harbour

Why visit?

Manukau is a multi-cultural eye-opener and a fantastic place to meet people from across the Pacific and around the world. The township itself is a bustling cosmopolitan centre, home to the biggest Polynesian community in the world and a melting pot of other cultures.

If you’re after a taste of Polynesia visit New Zealand’s largest street market, Otara Market. Each Saturday the marketplace bursts to life with colour and flavour. Pacific Island, Māori and Asian vendors sell everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to clothing. Pick up unique jewellery or wonderful arts and crafts pieces. And for avid shopaholics there’s also a Westfield shopping centre nearby.   

For a great family day out visit Rainbow’s End - New Zealand’s premier theme park. Experience the thrill of rollercoaster rides, bumper boats, family karts, 3D motion master and a family favourite - the dodgems. 

Or if you’re seeking a more relaxing day head to Auckland’s Botanic Gardens where you can picnic on the grass or enjoy a bite to eat in the café. With an impressive collection of plant species to admire it’s a fantastic place to spend your time sitting peacefully on a bench enjoying the sights and smells of nature in full bloom.

Location

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