Keen walker David Mallowes offers suggestions about fun and interesting routes people can take to get some exercise and enjoy the area in his latest column.
‘Parkrun’ at Barry Curtis Park in Flat Bush is also a family walking social event!
I joined the group recently as part of the East Auckland Walkfest – expected runners and joggers but not so many walkers, from ages four to 90.
For many locals, parkrun has become more than a fitness routine. It’s a social ritual, a place to meet up with old friends, bring the dog, or enjoy a family morning outdoors.
Every Saturday morning at 7.45am the park comes alive with the sound of footsteps and friendly chatter.
This is part of a global walk or jog or run movement – free, timed, and managed by an enthusiastic group of happy volunteers.
Participants register online and you then receive a barcode. The walk/run begins with a slow mass start with runners at the front, two laps of the 2.5km circuit at your own pace, and at the end you flash your barcode to record your time.
The same day you receive an email with your time, your placing, your placing in your age category, and a website link for more information.
Barry Curtis Park has wide pathways and gentle rises meandering around grasslands, wetlands, native plantings, and striking sculptures making for an impressive 94-hectare urban green space.
Designed for relaxing and recreation – sports fields, picnic areas, basketball court, skate ramp, drinking fountains, and a superb playground – and adjacent to the Ormiston Town Centre.
After your walk or run, volunteers extend an invitation to join everyone for a coffee at a nearby cafe.
Truly a great way to start the day. For the 600th parkrun on November 29, many will dress as superheroes. It should be a great morning to visit, even if just to spectate and support.
Parkrun meeting place is by the playground on Stancombe Road.
Toilets – a number of new very clean toilets near the start.
Dogs – on a short handheld leash.
Pushchairs – you are welcome to walk or run with a pushchair or a dog on-leash, but not both!
Cyclists – are permitted in the park so do watch for.
For more photos, visit Facebook page WalksOutEast.
