Spring Events Programme

Welcome to our spring events programme for September to Novemeber 2025.
Cornwall Park bursts into life this spring with vibrant blooms, playful lambs and calves, and a fresh line-up of events to celebrate the season.
This year, we’re bringing back our much-loved guided walks and the popular Cornwall Park trading cards—featuring a super limited edition metallic card available exclusively at Huia Lodge Discovery Hub.
Sundays are extra special in late spring. Join us for Spring Sundays, a series of free, family-friendly concerts at the Band Rotunda.
All our events are FREE to attend, though some may need you to register as we have limited numbers. All registration links are provided, but if you run into any trouble send us an email at info@cornwallpark.co.nz or give us a call on 09 630 8485.
Click here for a printable event programme

Exhibition: Cornwall Park Sneakerholics
Step into the history of kicks and culture! Sneakers have shaped the way we move from 1860 to 2025. Walk a mile in heritage shoes and discover how walking and walking footwear have changed over time.
Saturday 20th September to Saturday 29th November
Open daily 10am - 4pm
Location: Huia Lodge Discovery Hub (next to the Cornwall Park Bistro). Vehicle access from Green Lane West park gates.
FREE

Spring Seasonal Scavenger Hunt
Collect a scavenger hunt from Huia Lodge or print one at home. Use it to explore the park and discover some spring surprises.
This self-led activity is suitable for the young and young at heart. Take your time and find a new wonder each time you visit the park or race your friends and whānau to see who can find them all the fastest.
The clues will lead you all around the park to different accessible locations. You will need to bring your own pen or pencil.
Saturday 6 September to Sunday 30 November
September

Guided Walk: Ecology ID
Explore the ecology of Cornwall Park and become your own nature guide with our Huia Lodge Discovery Hub Team. We'll show you how to use resources like field guides, apps, and keys to identify plants and animals so you can teach yourself about nature everywhere you go.
This walk is suitable for older kids interested in nature and adults who want to be able to better understand and connect to nature.
We'll also explore the amazing tools available on your phone. Closer to the event we'll follow up with an email including all the details on the apps we plan to use so you can download them if you would like to bring your own device.
Don't forget your sunscreen, raincoat and water bottle. Suitable clothing and footwear are necessary. This walk goes ahead rain or shine. We will cancel the event via email on Sunday morning if the weather is extreme.
Registration is essential and numbers are limited. To register for this event please click here or email info@cornwallpark.co.nz. Let us know if you have any accessibility requirements.
Saturday 6th September
10am-12pm
Location: Start from Huia Lodge Discovery Hub (next to the Cornwall Park Bistro).
Vehicle access from Green Lane West.

Tamariki Discover: Spring
Join us on a walk through Cornwall Park, where curious minds will discover special taonga (treasure) in the park.
The walk will concentrate on experiencing the park using our five senses. Adventure through groves of trees, scout fascinating insects and explore big root systems all while learning about the park.
Suitable for 8-12 years old. Caregivers must accompany children on the walk.
Registration is essential and numbers are limited. To register for this guided walk please click here or email info@cornwallpark.co.nz
Don't forget your sunscreen, raincoat and water bottle. Suitable clothing and footwear are necessary. This walk goes ahead rain or shine. We will cancel the event via email on Sunday morning if the weather is extreme.
Sunday 7th September 10-11.30am
Location: Start from Huia Lodge Discovery Hub (next to the Cornwall Park Bistro).
Vehicle access from Green Lane West park gates.

Workshop: Nature Journaling
Want to learn about the best way to record all the treasures you find on your walks? Join artist Lesley Alexander-Smith for a relaxed drop in workshop for sketching and discovery.
Using creative hand lettering, and your own observational drawing , you'll turn your nature journal pages into stunning works of art.
This drop in workshop is suitable for ages 8+. Children must be accompanied by caregivers.
All supplies are provided but you're welcome to bring along their own sketchbooks, paints or pencils if preferred.
No registration is needed but there are limited tools and materials.
Meet your tutor
Lesley Alexander-Smith is a botanical and natural history artist living in Riverhead, Auckland. Inspiration for Lesley’s art comes from all around her and finds nature journaling a good way to relax, explore and learn about different locations she visits. She predominantly uses watercolour, graphite and ink in her work and has recently started working on vellum and experimenting with simple printmaking techniques. She likes to paint subjects with character – not always the prettiest or brightest but often the ones past their best, all the knobbly, imperfections Mother Nature throws at us and through her work allow others to see their individual and understated beauty.

Guided Walk: Birds
Attention all bird spotters. Did you know that Cornwall Park is a favourite spot for many different species of native and introduced birds, each with their own unique song and personality?
This guided walk offers an introduction to many of the birds that can be seen in the park, their origins, and information on how to best identify them. Top tip: Bring a pair of binoculars if you have some! You'll be guided by Ian McLean and his team from Birds New Zealand. www.birdsnz.org.nz
Don't forget your sunscreen, raincoat and water bottle. Suitable clothing and footwear are necessary. This walk goes ahead rain or shine. We will cancel the event via email on Sunday morning if the weather is extreme.
Registration is essential and numbers are limited. To register for this event please click here or email info@cornwallpark.co.nz. Let us know if you have any accessibility needs.
Sunday 14th September
10am - 12pm
Location: Start from Huia Lodge Discovery Hub (next to the Cornwall Park Bistro).
Vehicle access from Green Lane West.

Cornwall Park Trading Cards
For every visit to Huia Lodge Discovery Hub during the school holidays, you can choose a trading card to take home with you - no age limits! If you want more than one, complete our activity sheet to receive a whole pack.
With each card, you can learn about Cornwall Park fauna and flora, heritage, our farm, and activities you can do while in the park or at home. You can also play Snap with all the cards!
There is a super limited editition metallic card this year - only 14 are available.
Saturday 20th September - Sunday 5th October
10am - 4pm
Location: Huia Lodge Discovery Hub (next to the Cornwall Park Bistro).
Vehicle access from Green Lane West.

Tamariki Imagination: Heritage
This guided adventure, led by our Huia Lodge Discovery Hub team, will spark tamariki imaginations and curiosities about the park's heritage highlights. Together we will explore snapshots of our history in a unique and fun way as we travel through time.
Suitable for ages 4 to 8, grown-up participation is encouraged. Most of this experience will take place indoors, with a short walk around our heritage buildings.
Don't forget your sunscreen, raincoat and water bottle. Suitable clothing and footwear are necessary. This walk goes ahead rain or shine. We will cancel the event via email on Sunday morning if the weather is extreme.
Registration is essential and numbers are limited. To register for this guided walk please click here or email info@cornwallpark.co.nz. Please let us know if you have any accessibility requirements.
Sunday 22nd September
10-11am
Location: Start from Huia Lodge Discovery Hub (next to the Cornwall Park Bistro) access via Green Lane West.

Cornwall Park Heritage Day: Play
Cornwall Park has been a place for fun, games and connection since opening in 1903.
From bicycle races and flying kites to tī rākau and rugby, generations have made memories here with whānau and friends. We’re celebrating over a century of play— helping visitors discover games of the past and present.
Join us day for a day filled with displays, fun activities, and entertainment perfect for the whole whānau.
Saturday 27th September 11am - 2pm
Surrounding the Cornwall Park Band Rotunda.
Raindate: Saturday 4th October
For more information visit our dedicated heritage day page.
October

Storyweaving with The Light Library
Bring along, or gather from the park, natural treasures to weave into a shared thread with The Light Library.
During the session, we’ll craft a communal “Storycatcher” loom—where your found objects and words will become part of a collective artwork displayed in the park.
You’ll also learn to make your own Storycatcher to take home, capturing the threads and treasures of your day.
Drop in, share some kai and a cup of tea, and get creative—whānau and all ages welcome!
If the weather is fine there will be space to picnic in the shade of the trees.
No registration is required but there are limited tools, materials and kai.
Saturday 18th October
10am-12pm

Guided Walk: Heritage Postcards
Join our Huia Lodge Discovery Hub team for a gentle stroll through highlights of Cornwall Park's heritage. We'll travel through park history via images captured in vintage postcards.
This walk will conclude with the opportunity to write your own postcard to send within New Zealand.
Don't forget your sunscreen, raincoat and water bottle. Suitable clothing and footwear are necessary. This walk goes ahead rain or shine. We will cancel the event via Facebook and our website Sunday morning if the weather is extreme.
Registration is not required for this walk. Let us know if you have any accessibility requirements.
Sunday 19th October 10-11am
Location: Start from Huia Lodge Discovery Hub (next to the Cornwall Park Bistro). Vehicle access from Green Lane West.

Guided Walk: Farm
Join our farm manager for an educational walk through our farm. You will learn about the farm's history, the livestock and what our farmers do daily.
The walk may go through paddocks and turnstiles, it is not suitable for prams or wheelchairs. Don't forget your sunscreen, raincoat and water bottle. Suitable clothing and footwear are necessary.
This walk goes ahead rain or shine. We will cancel the event via email on Wednesday morning if the weather is extreme.
No dogs are permitted on this walk.
Registration is essential and numbers are limited. To register for this guided walk please click here or email info@cornwallpark.co.nz
Wednesday 22nd October
11am - 12pm
Location: Meet at the Haha Wall. Vehicle access from Green Lane West.

Guided Walk: Botany
Join botanist Ewen Cameron for a guided winter walk exploring the botanical wonders of spring flowers.
Don't forget your sunscreen, raincoat and water bottle. Suitable clothing and footwear are necessary. This walk goes ahead rain or shine. We will cancel the event via email on Sunday morning if the weather is extreme.
Registration is essential and numbers are limited. To register for this event please click here or email info@cornwallpark.co.nz. Please let us know if you have any accessibility requirements.
Sunday 26th October
10am - 11am
Location: Huia Lodge Discovery Hub next to the Cornwall Park Bistro. Vehicle access from Green Lane West.
Meet your guide
Ewen Cameron is a recently ‘retired’ Auckland botanist, after working 32 years as curator of botany at the Auckland Museum. Over the last four decades he has authored/co-authored many articles and papers on aspects of botany, ecology and conservation of northern New Zealand’s flora involving both native and naturalised plant species. He is an active member of the Auckland Botanical Society, including as president for 20 years. He served two terms on the Auckland Conservation Board, one as chair, and was awarded the Departments of Conservation’s Loder Cup in 2005.
November

Guided Walk: Forest Bathing
Relax with Benni Bonnin and experience forest bathing in Cornwall Park.
Take some time for yourself. Pause. Breathe. Connect with Nature. Simple, light and uplifting time – with guided meditation -in the good company of trees.
"Around me the trees stir in their leaves and call out, "Stay awhile". Mary Oliver
Don't forget your sunscreen, raincoat and water bottle. Suitable clothing and footwear are necessary. This walk goes ahead rain or shine. We will cancel the event via email on Saturday morning if the weather is extreme.
Registration is essential and numbers are limited. To register for this event please click here or email info@cornwallpark.co.nz. Let us know if you have any accessibility requirements.
Saturday 1st November
10am - 12pm
Location: Start from Huia Lodge Discovery Hub (next to the Cornwall Park Bistro).Vehicle access from Green Lane West.

Spring Sunday: Steel'n Beats
We’re kicking off our Spring Sundays performance series with a burst of rhythm and musical sunshine at the iconic Cornwall Park Band Rotunda!
Join us on Sunday, 2 November, for an unforgettable afternoon with Steel’n Beats, Auckland’s own steelpan band, bringing the sounds of the tropics to the heart of the park.
This free, family-friendly event series celebrates the rich musical diversity of our community, offering a platform for local performers to share their unique talents.
Pack a picnic, bring your whānau, and let the rhythm of the steel drums set the tone for a joyful spring season!
Spring Sunday: Steel'n Beats
Sunday 2 November
1-3pm
Cornwall Park Band Rotunda
About the performers:
Steel’n Beats are more than just a steel band – they’re a musical movement. Based in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, this tight-knit ensemble blends classic Calypso, Latin and African rhythms with modern pop to create a sound that transcends genres and reverberates through your soul.
Their instruments, hand-built from recycled 55-gallon oil drums by Trinidad & Tobago’s Lennox Jordan, are fine-tuned to produce intricate melodies and textures. When played together, they emit some of the world’s most boisterous and glorious sounds.
With their own ‘engine room’ of drums and percussion, Steel’n Beats stretch into genres like soul, jazz and pop, showcasing the versatility of the steelpan and delivering a captivating musical experience.
Find out more:
Website: www.steelnbeats.com/
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@steelnbeats
Instagram: www.instagram.com/steelnbeats
Facebook: www.facebook.com/steelnbeats
Spring Sundays: www.cornwallpark.co.nz/springsundays

Guided Walk: Rōngoa Māori
This guided hikoi (walk) will provide a peek into the world of Rongoā Māori through the native rākau (trees) of Cornwall Park. Emma will explore key concepts, philosophies, principles and processes that create the foundation of this traditional healing practice. While you can't harvest in the park we hope this experience will provide inspiration for your own garden.
Note the terrain is uneven underfoot in some places.
Don't forget your sunscreen, raincoat and water bottle. Suitable clothing and footwear are necessary. This walk goes ahead rain or shine. We will cancel the event via email on Saturday morning if the weather is extreme.
Registration is essential and numbers are limited. To register for this event please click here or email info@cornwallpark.co.nz. Please let us know if you have any accessibility requirements.
Sunday 8th November
10am - 12pm
Location: Meet at the Grotto, near Auckland Archery Club. A map will be sent to participants.
Meet your guide
Emma Haslam is of Ngāi Te Rangi and Ngāti Hauā descent and has worked supporting Donna Kerridge in her Rongoā Māori Practice for the past six years. She has also trained with prominent Rongoā Māori experts Rob McGowan and Atarangi Muru. Emma’s passion for Rongoā Māori is unrelenting. She is competent in the arts of karakia, Māori bodywork and plant medicines.
Love Papatuanuku

Spring Sunday: North Shore City Concert Band
Celebrate our vibrant and diverse musical community at Spring Sundays this November.
Join us on Sunday, 16 November, for a lively variety concert featuring the North Shore City Concert Band, performing a mix of classical, pop, jazz, show tunes and more.
This free, family-friendly event celebrates the incredible talent within our community, providing a platform for local performers to shine.
Bring a picnic, gather your whānau, and enjoy a beautiful afternoon of music in the park!
Spring Sunday: North Shore City Concert Band
Sunday 16 November 1-3pm
Cornwall Park Band Rotunda
About the performers:
The North Shore City Concert Band is a community-based ensemble made up of dedicated volunteer musicians from all walks of life – from students to retirees.
United by a passion for music, the band has been performing across Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland for 47 years, sharing their love of music through regular public performances.
Find out more:
Website: www.nscb.org.nz
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nscbnz
Spring Sundays: www.cornwallpark.co.nz/springsundays

Guided Walk: Spring Gardens
Discover the amazing work of our horticulture team and learn how they create colourful bursts of blooms in Cornwall Park's historic and modern garden beds and plantings.
Don't forget your sunscreen, raincoat and water bottle. Suitable clothing and footwear are necessary. This walk goes ahead rain or shine. We will cancel the event via email on Monday morning if the weather is extreme.
Registration is essential and numbers are limited. To register for this event please click here or email info@cornwallpark.co.nz. Please let us know if you have any accessibility requirements.
Monday 17th November
10am - 11am
Location: Start from Huia Lodge Discovery Hub (next to the Cornwall Park Bistro).
Vehicle access from Green Lane West.

Guided Walk: Volcanoes
Join Dr Bruce Hayward for a guided walk and delve into his wealth of knowledge about Maungakiekie's deep volcanic past.
Calling all budding volcanologists! This guided walk will explain how the volcano erupted and how the landscapes and rocks were formed.You'll also learn more about Tāmaki Makaurau's volcanic field. Crafted for people who are new to the world of geology and volcanology.
It is suitable for all ages who have the ability to walk up Maungakiekie using a mixture of dirt and gravel tracks and paved roads and walkways.
Note: the terrain is steep and uneven underfoot in some places where we will go off-road - prams and wheelchairs are not suitable for this walk. Children must be accompanied by caregivers and dogs are not permitted. Don't forget your sunscreen, raincoat and water bottle. Suitable clothing and footwear are necessary. This walk goes ahead rain or shine. We will cancel the event via email on Saturday morning if the weather is extreme. Registration is essential and numbers are limited.
To register for this event please click here or email info@cornwallpark.co.nz. Let us know if you have any accessibility requirements.
Saturday 22nd November
10am - 12.30pm
Location: Start from Huia Lodge Discovery Hub (next to the Cornwall Park Bistro).
Vehicle access from Green Lane West.
Your guide:
Bruce Hayward is a semi-retired Auckland research geologist. He has authored/co-authored 25 books on aspects of New Zealand’s fossils, geology, marine ecology, conservation, archaeology and history including a field guide to Auckland and two books on Auckland’s volcanoes. He is a past President of the Geological Society of New Zealand, and a former member of the New Zealand Conservation Authority, the Auckland Conservation Board and the Auckland Institute and Museum Council. His studies and conservation advocacy have been recognised in Fellowship of the Royal Society of NZ and Member of the NZ Order of Merit. He has presented over 300 talks for the public and led over 400 field trips around Auckland and to all parts of New Zealand.

Spring Sunday: Kra KoTo Kra
Pack your rhythm with your picnic and join us for a powerful afternoon of West African drumming and interactive workshops with Kra KoTo Kra.
This free, family-friendly event celebrates the vibrant diversity of our community, offering a platform for local performers to share their passion and creativity.
Spring Sunday: Kra KoTo Kra
Sunday 30th November 1-3pm
Cornwall Park Band Rotunda
About the performers:
Kra KoTo Kra is a dynamic drumming ensemble made up of members from Auckland’s richly diverse community, united by a shared love of rhythm. Since 2018, they’ve been thrilling audiences with traditional West African rhythms from countries such as Guinea, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Mali and Ghana.With experience performing at festivals and running workshops, Kra KoTo Kra brings an energetic and engaging show that’s sure to get the whole whānau involved.
Find out more:
Website: www.krakotokra.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/krakotokra
Spring Sundays: www.cornwallpark.co.nz/springsundays