Scenic Attractions

Sky Tower

The Sky Tower is an observation and telecommunications tower in Auckland’s CBD on the corner of Victoria and Federal Street in Auckland. At 328 metres high, it is the tallest man-made structure in NZ and is a spectacular and exciting tourist attraction. There are amazing 360 degree views from the 3 viewing platforms after you travel up in the glass-fronted lift. If you are brave enough, do the SkyWalk, where you walk around the exterior of the tower 192 metres above ground level or for more thrills, you can SkyJump off the Tower.

The Sky Tower also has world-class dining options with Peter Gordon’s The Sugar Club restaurant, or experience the amazing views whilst you dine at Orbit, a fully revolving restaurant. There are a total of 20 restaurants and bars to choose from to fulfil your preference.

Wynyard Quarter and Viaduct Harbour

Wynyard Quarter located right in the heart of the city is Stage 1 of an urban transformation that ultimately covers 37 hectares of land and nearly 3 kilometres of waterfront. It combines parks, public recreational spaces with restaurants and growing commercial and residential options.

From December to March, the open air Silo Markets operate on Friday and Saturday with an interesting mix of stalls and free entertainment, making it well worth a visit. Check out www.wynyard-quarter.co.nz

Viaduct Basin is adjacent to Wynyard Quarter and was formerly a commercial harbour that has been redeveloped and now offers a mix of residential, office space, restaurants and bars. It is an appealing area for the public to linger and enjoy the waterfront aspect in an enclosed harbour.

Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium

This is a public aquarium located on the waterfront at Okahu Bay, near Mission Bay and features over 30 live animal exhibits as well as the world’s largest Antarctic penguin colony exhibit. The underwater viewing tunnels lets you get up close with sharks, stingrays, tropical fish and seahorses. The penguins are a crowd pleaser and offer a truly unique experience for visitors. Check out www.kellytarltons.co.nz/

Auckland Zoo

Auckland Zoo is well worth a visit to see the largest collection of native and exotic animals in NZ. It is set in 17 hectares of green parkland situated next to Western Springs park only minutes from central Auckland. It features a mini safari via a boardwalk through the Pridelands of Africa, a rainforest experience and a truly unique NZ environment with te wao nui to get a real appreciation of NZ. www.aucklandzoo.co.nz

Hauraki Gulf Islands

Take the time to explore the amazing islands in the Hauraki Gulf – a short 25 minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland takes you to Rangitoto (the youngest and largest of the 48 volcanic cones in Auckland and home to the world’s largest pohutukawa forest). Walk to the summit (260 metres above sea level) and enjoy panoramic views of the gulf and the city in an idyllic outdoor setting.

Or a 35 minute ferry ride can take you to Waiheke Island, known as the Island of Wine because of its many wineries and vineyards. You can enjoy wine tastings, top class restaurants and sandy beaches all on a day trip or stay longer.

There are many water experiences on the Harbour for the active tourist: Sea kayaking, windsurfing or kite sailing all at city beaches.