Heritage Picnic Experience
If you are booking accommodation with us and would like to enjoy a picnic in one of the nearby parks, please ask about the Heritage Picnic, a packed picnic hamper, complete with food and drink, glasses, cutlery and, of course, a picnic rug on which to spread.
The History of Picnicking
In New Zealand the practice of “picnicking”, of eating in the outdoors and sharing good food with congenial company, follows the European tradition, which was enjoyed by the very wealthy as elaborate multi-course affairs amid grand surroundings, but these days here in the Antipodes, is more likely to be a simple meal served in a simple fashion with close friends and family.
If you would like to know more about the History of Picnics,
click here http://www.picnic-basket.com/History-of-Picnicking_ep_28.html
In New Zealand, we are blessed with a semi-temperate climate and many beautiful places to visit and experience the outdoors. What better way to enjoy our lovely city parks in Auckland than to enjoy a picnic with friends and family.
At Braemar we have several of the city’s finest parks within easy walking distance. Albert Park , the elegant Victorian park in Princes Street , has many fine large trees under which one can spread a picnic blanket and also boasts a beautiful fountain and floral clock. Being directly opposite the Auckland University and so close to the city makes this a favourite lunchtime spot for students and office workers alike.
Auckland Domain is the largest of the parks in the central city and has many significant trees and buildings, including the Auckland War Memorial Museum and Wintergardens. By the duck pond there is also a small café from which hot drinks can be purchased and further towards the museum in summer an ice-cream vendor can be seen selling his ice-creams and cold drinks.
Old Government House grounds are administered by the Auckland University, but are open to the public for walks and picnics. The University School of Business has compiled an informative walk for visitors to the city and this is available both in soft and hard copy. These historic gardens include many native trees planted by visiting Royals and the old tennis court is now an open space ideal for holding picnics.
There are other parks which are slightly further afield and a bus ride can get you to many of them, some of which have facilities for outdoor barbecues.
If you would rather picnic at a beach, Auckland boasts many, and a short bus ride will take you to the inner city beaches of Okahu Bay, Kohimarama, Mission Bay and St Heliers Bay.
Typically, our Heritage Picnic hamper will include sandwiches, cold meats, boiled eggs, fruit and liquid refreshment. Winter picnics may substitute hot drinks for cold and may also include a hot soup alternative. Please ask for a quote when booking your accommodation.
