The best things to see, do and experience around Western Springs Bowl

From the moment you arrive at the Western Springs Bowl, you’re met with the energy, the excitement and the unrivalled potential for a great day (or night) out. Whether you’re going for a concert, attending a festival, or heading along to support your favourite team, there’s a whole host of experiences waiting for you nearby. 

Here’s our definitive guide for what to do, see, taste and experience around the Western Springs Bowl. 

Find something to do before the event 

If you're in the market for some entertainment before you head along to your event, then Auckland Zoo is conveniently located just around the corner from the venue. With over 135 incredible species and over 2,800 animals, it’s an educating and exciting day out with friends or family.  

If technology is more your speed, then the Museum of Transport and Technology – or MOTAT – offers a fun and exciting learning experience for all ages. Jump aboard the tram that connects MOTAT and the Zoo, and zip down the road to the Aviation Hall which hosts a large collection of recreational, military, topdressing, and commercial aircraft. 

Get a round in at the Chamberlain Park Public Golf Course. Situated just across the motorway from Western Springs Bowl, it's the perfect spot to land that hole-in-one. Tee off in the morning, wrap up with lunch at Taco Loco and then head to your event. 

Get in touch with your wild side 

Take a stroll around Western Springs Park. This inner-city park is a true haven for nature lovers. In its centre is a pristine spring-fed lake that is home to ducks, swans and geese making it a tranquil spot for birdwatching. You can park up on the grass and have lunch or walk around the outside of the lake to take in all the sights. 

If you crave tranquillity, then the nearby Fukuoka Garden offers it in abundance. This peaceful Japanese garden within the Western Springs precinct features a tea pavilion, pond, waterfall, and carefully planted gardens. 

Chase the sun to the beach at Coyle Park in nearby Point Chevalier. Down a short path you’ll find a wide, private stretch of beach that boasts soft sands and gentle tides perfect for families. The beach is dog friendly too – just make sure you keep them on leash in the designated hours. 

Meola Reef Reserve is a 15-hectare nature reserve where you can observe the remnants of the longest lava flow in the Auckland volcanic field! This spot is very popular for dog walkers and has natural mangroves and salt marches.

Looking for spots to eat? 

If you like the sound of good vibes and tasty dishes, then you’re in luck. 

The Smoking Shack is home to house-smoked, authentic and slow-cooked meats for BBQ enthusiasts! Dig into mouthwatering ribs, hearty burgers or incredible sharing platters. Across the road, Romulus and Remus serve up apéritifs, dinner, dessert, lunch and snacks that are inspired by ancient Rome. 

Further along Richardson Road as you head into Grey Lynn, Lilian has swiftly become a local favourite for its delectable dishes and generous selection of wines. Try dishes like wood-fired octopus with romesco, fried potato and fennel salad or melt-in-your-mouth bavette steak. Nate’s Plaice offers fresh fish and chips, Mother delivers incredible baked treats and delights and Freida Margolis is the perfect destination for a cheeky cocktail or two.  

Westmere offers different flavours; Catroux is all about fresh, bright and tasty salads and café fare, whilst Ragtag  serve up their duck fat flour tortillas that are iconic and beloved by locals. Every day they roll over 400 tortillas by hand to create a fluffy taco that is unlike any other in Aotearoa. Craving a bit of spice? Esarn Rocket serve up modern Thai street food that’ll leave you coming back for more. From Thai Fried Chicken to Yum Pork Wontons, every dish is a sensation. 

Slightly further afield, Kingsland offers perfect spots for pre and post event drinks and dinner. The Kingslander,  Kingsland Social and Full Time Sports Bar & Eatery are all local favourites, and are perfect post-event destinations! Picture beers on tap, plates full of delicious snacks from the kitchen, and large screens showcasing sports from across the globe. 

Stay the night in the city

Just a 10-minute journey from the city centre, you’ll find that Western Springs Bowl is easily accessed from the heart of Auckland, making it easy to stay nearby. 

Stay in comfort atthe SkyCity Hotel, where you’ll be mere minutes from amazing dining options on Federal Street, and right next to the Sky Tower.  Relax and be pampered at the Cordis where a massage from their award-winning Chuan Spa will perfectly cap off any weekend getaway. 

If you’d prefer to stay by the water, then you’ll love The Hotel Britomart. Set in the bustling Britomart precinct of downtown Auckland, you’ll spend the weekend in a hotel that is renowned for its sustainability and attention to detail. The iconic Kingi restaurant is renowned for its fresh and sustainable dishes. Plus, you’ll be within walking distance to Waitematā Station where you can jump on a train or bus and get around the city. 

For a slice of luxury, you’ll love the Hilton Hotel which is 300m out to sea, perched atop Princes Wharf and overlooking the Waitematā Harbour. This luxurious hotel boasts comfortable rooms, award-winning dining and exceptional service, right in the heart of Auckland’s harbour.  

Or, head slightly inland to the  QT Hotel which offers 150 luxuriously contemporary rooms, overlooking the harbour and Victoria Park.  Dine at the award winning Esther where their signature ‘Puff Bread & Taramasalata’ is a repeat winner of Iconic Auckland Eats. Plus, Esther is one of Auckland’s MICHELIN-select restaurants so it’s a guaranteed good time! 

Discover the sights, sounds and flavours of Ponsonby 

If you’re hunting for some great shopping, craving great coffee or just looking for a late-night boogie after the event, then Ponsonby offers these and more! Situated just 5 minutes from Western Springs Bowl, it’s an ideal destination to browse boutique stores, eateries and pop-ups in Ponsonby Central, or along Ponsonby Road where you can snag great deals and crafted wares. 

When it comes to dining, Ponsonby pulls to the front with delicious eateries that are beloved by locals and visitors alike! The Blue Breeze Inn offers pacific-Asian fusion cuisine, serving you up everything from Bang Bang Chilli Chicken to Truffle Mushroom Fried Rice. World-class coffee can be found at the Allpress Cafe, indulge with Vietnamese favourites at Mekong Baby, or keep it simple with a delicious bagel from the Auckland Bagel Club. 

For a drink or to simply get your groove on, head along to spots like Longroom, Revelry, Goblin or Ponsonby Social Club where the vibes start in the early evening and go on ‘til the very early morning! Visit the Broken Lantern in the early evening for a chill vibe and then head up the secret staircase to discover a hidden speakeasy that oozes prohibition-era charm. Each club offers a different vibe so hop around and find your club of choice!