If you need proof that spring has indeed arrived (because it sure doesn't feel it out there), pull on your gumboots, dodge the showers and go blossom, bloom and lamb spotting. Here are five places to help you shake off this long wet winter.
Eden Garden
This 2ha garden is the best place in Auckland to see tulips, as well as explosions of many other spring blooms and blossoms. They reckon they have 10,000 flowering bulbs alone. Pop along today for the annual family-friendly Tulip Festival.
24 Omana Ave, Epsom. edengarden.co.nz
Auckland Botanic Gardens
It's peak flowering season at the Botanic Gardens in Manurewa. Head for Spring Blossom Valley to frolic in a carpet of daffodils, under a canopy of cherry blossoms and flowering crab apples.
Hill Rd, Manurewa. aucklandbotanicgardens.co.nz
Waikowhai
It's all in the name, meaning kowhai by the water. This bay, on the northern shore of the Manukau Harbour, hosts the largest block of native forest left in Auckland, according to the Auckland Council. In spring, blooming kowhai trees turn the valley yellow, luring in a percussion orchestra of tui.
For walking routes, visit the Manukau Coastal Walks page on the council website, aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Cornwall Park and One Tree Hill Domain
Is there a better time to visit this sprawling wonderland than in spring, when lambs bounce among the daffodils? Today is the last day of the Seasons in the Park display at the Cornwall Park Information Centre. Or diary a visit for September 14, 21 or 28 for the Cherry Blossom Sundays in Cherry Tree Groove. cornwallpark.co.nz
