Auckland is spoiled for pretty parks, many of them neatly tucked away, waiting to be discovered.

1. Premier Ave Reserve
Enter from walkway beside 26 Premier Ave or Riro St.
This cute little park is tucked back from the road in Pt Chev. With swings, slides, climbing gear and green space, it's prettily encased by suburban back gardens. And the concrete pathways will feel like a roller-coaster to a child on their first bike. Perfect for when Western Springs feels a bit hectic.

2. Konini Reserve
18 A Waiohua Rd, Greenlane.
Simply precious. Peaceful, gorgeous greenery, like another country, and it even has a tennis court. There's a little bench surrounded by trees, the perfect place to take the Weekend Herald or a good book. Also has a playground, tables and toilets.

3. Bassant Reserve
Bassant Ave, Penrose.
The park is a water catchment area boasting some huge oaks and an old apple tree.

There are some little bridges and picnic tables, native bush and wetlands where you can see kingfisher and tui. And the park is very secluded, so feels like it could be your own backyard.

4. Plymouth Reserve
9 Plymouth Crescent, Belmont. North Shore.
This lovely park is as much about the journey as the destination with the lovely boardwalks which are great for scootering. There's also a playground, pretty views, and it feels so tranquil and removed from the hustle and bustle of every day life.