26 February, 2016

Back to nature at Blackberry Flats

If you’re looking for an authentic natural camping site that takes you back to your childhood experiences, look no further than Blackberry Flats Campground in Waharau Regional Park. It’s an electronic device-free zone.

On the eastern side of the bush-clad Hunua Ranges, Waharau extends from the range to the coast. Campers enjoy farmland, streams and forest for camping, picnics, walking and mountain biking.

Blackberry Flats is just one of the campgrounds across Auckland will be turning on a Big Camp Out weekend of activities and camping opportunities on 5 and 6 March to celebrate 50 years of regional parks.

“It’s just $15 per adult and $6 per child (under-fives are free) to camp at Waharau Regional Park, making it one of the cheapest places anywhere to have a back-to-nature, device-free family break,” says Richard Hollier, Manager, Regional Parks.

The park is home to many species of birds, which visitors can enjoy from the comfort of their tent, or on one of the easy access walks through the regenerating forest.

Auckland Council Parks and Recreation Committee Chair Councillor Christine Fletcher urges Auckland residents to get out and enjoy the summer Big Camp Out while the weather is good.

“Our regional parks are much loved and treasured by the people of Auckland and visitors alike, receiving more than 6 million visits a year. They are home to the most majestic landscapes of the Auckland region and protect many rare and threatened ecosystems and native species. For many of us, they are places that inspire and define us; places where we seek tranquillity and respite in nature, or more active recreation in the bush or on the beach,” she says.

“The weather is perfect for camping out and we have plenty of regional parks within range of Auckland, so it’s easy to go overnight or for a weekend.”

Auckland Regional Park campgrounds can be booked on 09 366 2000, option 2, 8am-7pm Monday to Sunday.

ENDS

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