Five of the best: Ways to relax in Auckland

Take an unforgettable journey above Auckland in a hot-air balloon. Photo / Supplied

Strolling, floating, or cruising, here are some laid-back ways to make the most of the city.

1. Wander through the Brick Bay Sculpture Park

Arabella Lane, Warkworth
Phone: 09 425 4690
Website: brickbaysculpture.co.nz
Price: Adults $12, children 5-17 $8

Get back to nature at this creative sculpture park surrounded by lakes and forest. Walk the trail and check-out the outdoor art then enjoy a tasty platter and a glass of vino.

2. Enjoy a coffee cruise on the Waitemata Harbour

Pride of Auckland, Viaduct Harbour
Phone: 0800 EXPLORENZ
Website: explorenz.co.nz
Price: Adults $75, children 5-15 $55

Sit back, relax and take in the magnificent sights of Auckland as you cruise across the Waitemata Harbour on a sail boat. This 90-minute coffee cruise is just the ticket to unwind.

3. Pamper yourself at Chaun Spa

The Langham, 83 Symonds St
Phone: 09 300 2960
Website: chuanspa.co.nz
Price: Various

Indulge your senses with one of Chuan Spa's luxurious treatments. Designed to create an ambience of tranquility, Chuan Spa will let you unwind and rebalance your body and mind.

4. Stroll along sand dunes at Lake Wainamu

Te Henga - Bethells Beach

Take time out to enjoy the natural beauty of Auckland's west coast. Feel the warm sand through your toes as you walk along steep sand dunes to reach the picturesque and serene Lake Wainamu.

5. Take to the skies in a hot air balloon

Balloon Expedition Company of New Zealand
Phone: 09 416 8590
Website: balloonexpeditions.co.nz
Price: Various

What better way is there to get away from it all than by floating up and away overlooking the stunning views of Auckland's northwest, or the Waitemata Harbour? This will be a serene and memorable journey that you'll never forget.