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Auckland Museum
Situated on The Domain, an extensive central city parkland on one of Auckland's extinct volcanic hills, the Auckland Museum overlooks the city and the attractive Waitemata Harbour. It is one of the most visited attractions in the city, housing a remarkable collection of Maori and Pacific Island artifacts and cultural displays. Originally built as a World War I Memorial in 1929, the building was dedicated to the memory of New Zealand victims in both World War I and II. The 'New Zealand at War' exhibition has since been joined by extensive displays about the people and the country, its cultures, art and natural history. There is a Children's Discovery Center on the middle floor. For many, a highlight of a visit to the museum, is the three times daily Maori cultural performance of song and dance, providing an entertaining insight into Maori mythology and history.
Address: Domain Drive, The Domain, Parnell
Phone Number: (0)9 309 0443 or (0)9 306 7067
Email Address: info@aucklandmuseum.com
Website: www.aucklandmuseum.com
Transport: City tour buses, the Link bus and public services 645 and 655 stop on Parnell Road, five minutes walk away
Hours: Daily from 10am to 5pm. Closed on 25 December and 25 April
Admission: A NZ$5 donation is suggested (adults). The Maori performance requires an admission of NZ$15 (concessions available) and this includes the museum donation

Hauraki Gulf Islands
The Hauraki Gulf is studded with numerous islands such as Rangitoto, Waiheke and Great Barrier Island and those close to the mainland make a good day trip. Some are recreation retreats, and others are conservation islands with restricted access, reserves for the protection of rare bird, animal and plant life. Waiheke is the most popular of the gulf islands, with picturesque bays and white sandy beaches, rolling farmlands and hills cloaked with vineyards and fine wineries. The town enjoys the slow and relaxed pace of island life, along with chic little restaurants and cafes, and is home to many art galleries and craft shops. The nearest island to the city is the uninhabited Rangitoto, a large volcanic cone with an unusual landscape of black distorted lava shapes that governs the view over the harbor. It is possible to hike up to the crater rim and explore the lava caves on the slopes. Each island has a different character with different things to do, whether it is to explore natural geological features or to enjoy the isolation, relax on white beaches or wander about the galleries and cafes. Some visitors prefer simply to sail around the islands on a yacht or ferry cruise and enjoy the scenery from on board.
Website: www.gotothegulf.com
Transport: Frequent ferries leave from the wharves around the Ferry Building

Sky Tower
The Sky Tower, at 1,076ft (328m), is the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere and has unforgettable views over the city, the harbor and the gulf islands. It is part of the Sky City Entertainment Complex, with a casino, theater, hotel and conference center. Visitors to the tower can splash out on dinner in the revolving restaurant, or admire the view from one of the four circular observation decks, reached by a glass lift. There is an outdoor deck, glass floor panels, an audio visual guide and touch computer screens providing geographical information. The Sky Deck is the highest viewing level with spectacular 360-degree views.
Address: Sky City Complex, Victoria and Federal Streets
Phone Number: (0)9 363 6000
Email Address: skytower@skycity.co.nz
Website: www.skycity.co.nz
Hours: Daily from 8.30am to 11pm (12pm on weekends)
Admission: NZ$25 (adults), NZ$8 (children). To climb to the Sky Deck level is an extra NZ$3. Other concessions are available

Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands is famous for its beautiful coastal scenery and it is one of North Island's major attractions. The bay is interspersed with numerous little coves and inlets and sandy beaches, and the historical townships of Paihia, Waitangi and Russell are the central hubs of the area, from where an unbelievable array of activities and tours can be arranged. Sailing and boat cruises around the islands are the main attraction, but the natural surroundings and warm waters of the bay make it an ideal place for kayaking, swimming, diving and fishing. The bay is also of historical significance as the place where the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed between the European settlers and Maori chiefs in 1840.
Website: www.bay-of-islands.co.nz

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