The oldest park in Auckland, and definitely one of the most spectacular, the Auckland Domain, with an area of 75 hectares, is a romantic little escape in the heart of Grafton. Housing the explosion crater and the surrounding tuff ring of the Pukekawa volcano, and home to the Auckland War Memorial Museum, this park is a haunt frequented by both locals and tourists alike.

Several sports fields rest on the grounds of the explosion crater, while the cricket pavilion and Auckland City Hospital sit on the rim across the prominent Auckland War Memorial Museum. This absolutely beautiful, green park is also home to the Domain Wintergardens, which are two greenhouses, in an ornate courtyard with neo-classical features, displaying an exotic range of temperate and tropical plants. The courtyard boasts a fishpond, fountains and marble statues, thereby making it a romantic spot frequented by lovers and newlyweds.

Spend an afternoon on the grounds of this magnificent garden, and take in the lush green and vibrant colours of the flora that surround you. Fly a kite with friends or family, or spend a leisurely afternoon with a picnic feeding ducks at the pond. For the lovers amongst you, the serene and romantic ‘Lovers Walk’ track can be found within the park for you and your partner to embark on a beautiful walk together in the serene setting of this trail. History buffs can spend the hours engrossed in the museum. With something for everyone to do, the Auckland Domain is a little piece of paradise that will delight and warm the soul.