Post-Christmas long weekends have a habit of sneaking up. If you're yet to make plans, stay put in Auckland and enjoy a doorstep dalliance.
Shakespeare, two-ways
There are 28 regional parks in Auckland with Shakespear Regional Park making an excellent day trip for its picture-perfect location (quite literally – take a pic with the giant-sized photo frame). There are numerous walking trails to suit all abilities, perfect slivers of ice-white sand and turquoise water for a dip. Pack a picnic and set up on the grass or take a tent and stay overnight. If you prefer your Shakespeare in literary format, Takapuna's The PumpHouse Theatre is showcasing two plays this summer: Two Gentlemen of Verona and The Merchant of Venice. Performed in the outdoor amphitheatre, settle in for a night of costume and stagecraft.
pumphouse.co.nz
![There are 28 regional parks in Auckland with Shakespear Regional Park making an excellent day trip for its picture-perfect location. Photo / 123rf](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/CMSIXDRS6777NB2REBREOGMH2E.jpg?auth=cbd61ea452c9ac702ecdb070da40adc521154ed2806f6b3d56b91751a4d72772&width=16&height=11&quality=70&smart=true)