Towers above the rest
The sky tower dominates the skyline of Auckland. If you arrive by sea or plane you are bound to see this striking building. The view from the top isn’t bad either, with it’s panoramic 360 glass viewing area. The building took two years and 9 months to build, costing 85 million NZD. It weighs a massive 21 million kilograms and stands at 328 meters high. It’s possible to dine at the orbit 360 or they also have a cafe. Here it’s possible to indulge in tased ice cream and cakes or sip a coffee or tea. We took to the skys during Covid and were impressed with the social distancing measure in place.
Harbourside
Watch the activity on the boats as they come and go. The harbourside is a hub of activity day and night. If you just fancy a leisurely stroll around the water, a coffee or something stronger this is the place to be. With a huge selection of restaurants in and around the area there is so much choice.
Mission Bay
Sitting on the wall people watching and dipping your toes into the soft sand. Mission bay is a beautiful area with a lovely sandy beach to walk along and soak up the atmosphere. People are chatting, eating or playing on the grass. There is plenty of eateries to choose from and dine outside or inside.
One Tree Hill
This is a place you can go to loose yourself and relax. The parklands are massive. The climb to the top is a challenge, but so worth the effort. If you are lucky enough to come as the sun is setting you are in for a treat. If you stay around for nightfall you will see the night sky like never before. There were so many stars lighting up the sky. Just be sure to bring a torch for your trip back down.
Auckland Botanic Gardens
With 64 hectares and over 10,000 plants, there are so many different walks you can do here. The gardens have a distinct South pacific flavour. During the Covid pandemic this was the perfect place to escape and connect with nature. There is also the opportunity to spot lots of native wildlife such as the Tui. The threatened native plant section also gives lots of interesting information. Whats more this botanic garden is free. If you have the chance pop into the Cafe Miko.
Devonport
Reportedly Auckland's prettiest village, just 12 minutes from the CBD by ferry. This is a delightful area. There is a beach to enjoy or plenty of cafes and restaurants to choose from. Wander around the quaint shops and spot refurbished victorian villas. It is also home to a famous choclateria which is well worth a visit. Two volcanic cones also give some of the best vantage points of the city and there are numerous heritage walks to take around the neighbourhood to learn more about these fascinating area.
Ponsonby
Dubbed the hippyest part of town Ponsonby is packed full of fashion stores, bars and restaurants. Take the time to check out local arts and crafts or browse second hand bookstores. When it comes to nightlife, catch a live music gig or dance late into the night. From five star restaurants to street food and chic cafes Ponsonby has it all.
Auckland War Memorial Museum
Turn the corner and see a face with a tongue sticking out staring back at you. The Auckland war museum is the place to go to find out about the local Mari culture. The Maori courts allow you to emerge yourself in their treasures. At the time a taste of the Mari dance was also on offer. The national history galleries also show visitors the evolution of New Zealand from geological origins to ancient species. These also covers ancient worlds and arts of Asia. The second level allow you to learn about New Zealand part in WW1 and WW2.
Auckland Art Gallery
One minute you can be captivated by an abstract art piece the next you are looking at the portraits of Mari’s. This museum integrates the old with the new. Home to over 15,000 works of art, the collections are vast and varied. It houses the worlds largest collection of New Zealand art, with an international gallery as well. From the historic Mackelvie gallery to modern Mario exhibitions the offering is diverse.
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