Auckland City
Sky Tower
Ph +64 9 363 6000 for enquirys
Ph +64 9 368 1835 for SkyWalk/SkyJump bookings
Within Auckland’s famous Sky Tower you will find a range of activities for young and old.
SkyCity Auckland Casino has over 1700 gaming machines and 130 table games on offer. Whatever game you fancy is likely to be on offer seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Also offering delicious food, a bar and live entertainment, this is the place for those over 20 to come for a night of fun and excitement.
For those who seek thrills, you can make the journey to the very top of New Zealand’s tallest man-made structure to take part in the SkyJump – a 192 metre base jump by wire, straight down over the city. Definitely an unforgettable experience! You can also participate in SkyWalk, a walk like no other around the 1.2 metre wide platform, 192 metres in the air. Full body harnesses and overhead safety lines will keep you safe as you make your way around.
There is a selection of restaurants, including Orbit 360, which fully rotates once every hour to provide beautiful views of Auckland City and SkyCity theatre which is the host of an array of performances across all genres.
Auckland Viaduct
Where Auckland City meets the sea is the Auckland Viaduct, with an exciting community, vibrant nightlife and beautiful views of the harbor to match. Whether you are looking to eat, drink or play – the Auckland Viaduct is one of New Zealand’s top recreational destinations.
Simply take a stroll along the water’s edge to enjoy the gorgeous sea views, glimpse the magnificent super yachts and soak in the brilliant atmosphere. Or if you prefer, you can head to the Waterfront Bikes kiosk where you can register to hire bikes (free for the first two hours) to take you on your tours.
Stop for a bite to eat along the way at one of the stunning restaurants and delicious eateries. Here you will find Simon Gault’s (from Masterchef New Zealand) restaurant Giraffe or check out Danny Doolans, Auckland’s premier live music destination. With over 30 bars and restaurants, there is somewhere to tickle your fancy whether it be a brunch with family, dinner with someone special or a drink with friends.
There are also a huge range of activities and adventures that are based at the viaduct or ferries and charter boats available to take you away to a special spot. On land you will find the Auckland Maritime Museum or the Tepid Baths. Or you can take to the water with numerous boat charters, cruises or adventures such as the Whale and Dolphin Safaris. Many events are held at the viaduct, such as Louis Vuitton Regattas, the Auckland International Boat Show and New Zealand Fashion Week.
Whoa! Studios
Ph +64 9 838 4553
A showcase of New Zealand and International film, television and show talent, Whoa! Studios is a thriving hub of community entertainment in the heart of Auckland.
Specialising in action, puppetry and miniatures, the film studio is an immersive experience for kids and families. The main stage, called “the Tree House” is built by the set builders of Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit and features state of the art digital projection and sound systems. Their leading offering are the characters and stories of Custard’s World, adapted for the stage by BAFTA award winning screenwriter Bob Baker (also creator of Wallace & Grommit). Visitors can also to the working studio where Custard World the movie is being produced. Here you will find advanced green and blue screen facilities and New Zealand’s only motion control camera systems.
For those that see the show also gain entry to the Urban Playground with movie set quality attractions such as Rocket Ship, Mission Control, Dragon’s Castle and Pirates Cove. It is also home to the unique in crochet play net by Japanese artist Toshiko Horiuchi Macadam over two years and using 70 kilometres of nylon yarn. Also keep an eye out from late 2017 onwards for the all new obstacle course and water slide attractions.
Whoa! Studios is also home to “The Grounds”, restaurant of celebrated New Zealand chef Ben Bayly. With a cosy and relaxed atmosphere, this modern eatery is designed for families to come and discover quality delicious and nutritious foods.
La Cigale French Markets
If you are a connoisseur of the most excellent quality foods or delight in the eating of delicious food and beverages, then visiting La Cigale in Britomart is a must-experience. Held every Saturday from 8.00am to 1.30pm at Britomart, these French inspired markets offer top quality artisan products – from freshly baked breads and pastries to delicious cheeses, jams & chutneys, fresh fish and produce.
After you’ve made your selections, take a seat at the one of the long communal tables and enjoy a coffee and one of the endless sweet and savoury treats on offer. Especially tasty are the Croque Monsieur, Auckland’s best Bahn Mi sandwiches or the beef bourguignon. If you’re after a sweet treat then look out for the Pain au Chocolat, danishes or fruit tarts.
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki
Ph +64 9 890 2228 for tour bookings or +64 9 379 1349 info line
As you enter under the impressive Kauri columns, you will get the distinct feeling that Toi o Tamaki is a place of beautiful quality artwork and exhibitions held over four different floors in the heart of Auckland City. Featuring both local and international artworks and special exhibitions, you can take advantage of free admission or take part in a guided tour that are given daily between 11.30am and 1.00pm. Booking ahead is recommended as each tour accommodates only 15 people.
Their collections include a huge and significant collection of historic, modern and contemporary New Zealand art as well as outstanding pieces by Maori and Pacific Islander artists – over 16,000 works in all. It is also home of E H McCormick research library and the Conservation Research Centre.
Auckland War Memorial Museum
Ph +64 9 306 7048 Bookings Office
This is New Zealand’s very first museum, located in the Auckland Domain on top of what is known as Pukekawa Hill. As it currently stands, the Auckland Musuem is one of New Zealand’s finest heritage buildings and was erected in 1929 as a tribute to those who served in the war. It now stands as the Auckland provinces War Memorial – particularly known as the place of public gathering for ANZAC (The Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) day commemorations.
Since then the museum’s collections has expanded to paint a rich canvas of New Zealand’s military and social history, with a particular highlight on Maori and Pacific heritage. There also features decorative arts and pictorial collections along with Museum store, Café and package tours available – you can even book into see a Maori cultural performance!
