If you’d like to get to know Manukau a little better, the following excerpts give a nice overview of just some of the features of the area. I found these on Auckland Council’s websites.

“Manukau is the heart of Auckland’s south, a vibrant cosmopolitan centre that is a unique blend of urban, rural and coastal — which means lots of opportunities for fun, adventure and relaxation.

Get a thrill

Enjoy the exhilarating rides and attractions at New Zealand’s largest theme park. It’s a great family day out, with roller coasters, bumper boats, go karts, 3D motion master, dodgems and much more.

Taste the culture
For a taste of the Pacific, visit Otara Market, New Zealand’s largest street market bursting with life and flavour. Every Saturday, the Pacific Island, Māori and Asian stalls sell everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to clothing, arts and crafts.

Smell the flowers

Take a stroll through the stunning Auckland Botanic Gardens, home to more than 10,000 plants. Picnic on the grass, enjoy a bite in the café and admire the fantastic sculptures spread through the gardens.”

Reposted from http://www.aucklandnz.com/discover/manukau

“Totara Park

One of south Auckland’s premier parks, Totara Park, stretches over 216 hectares with an award-winning adventure playground at the Wairere Road entrance. There's also a second playground just a short walk from the main picnic area along the main bridle trail.

There's also a swimming pool which is free and supervised to use during the summer months. Awesome mountain bike tracks, for more information, visit the Auckland MTB Club and the Cycleway New Zealand websites.

Totara Park is home to a wide variety of bird habitats and also boasts a tennis court that is available year around, many bush walks and makes a perfect picnic spot.”

Reposted from http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/EN/parksfacilities/premierparks/Pages/totarapark.aspx