Top things to do in Auckland

Location: Federal Street, Auckland, NZ

If you've ever seen a picture of postcard of Auckland, one of the first feature's you've undoubtedly noticed is the city's impressive Sky Tower structure standing proudly over the rest of the city skyline. As New Zealand's tallest man-made structure at an impressive 328 metres, if you're after some epic views then the Sky Tower should be the first stop after you touch ground in Auckland.

All it takes is an entry ticket and a quick ride in the (partly glass-bottomed!) lift (that's an “elevator, for our U.S-based readers), and you'll find yourself high above the city on the spacious viewing deck. The harbour and the buildings of Auckland take on a whole new life when viewed from this high up, and it's also perhaps the best spot in the greater Auckland region from which to take in a sunset, as the changing lights combine with the gradual turning-on of the city lights to form a wonderful spectacle.

Just below the main viewing deck is a floor with a revolving restaurant that makes for one of the most exclusive – and visually stunning – dining experiences in Auckland that's open for lunch, high tea and dinner. The dining area rotates once every 60 minutes which will allow you ample time to take in each individual angle, provided you're not too caught up in the delicious array of food.

With a focus on modern, kiwi-influenced a la carte food, the menu is comprehensive and of a generally high quality; plus, where else in the world can you enjoy a tasty bite to eat while watching people plunge off the side of a building?

"As New Zealand's tallest man-made structure at an impressive 328 metres, if you're after some epic views then the Sky Tower should be the first stop after you touch ground in Auckland."

This isn't some kind of a depressing suicide reference, as the Sky Tower isn't just a viewing platform – it also serves as one of the focal points for adrenaline that Auckland has to offer, with the record-breaking SkyJump one of the region's most popular activities for thrill-seekers both locally and abroad.

Those with cast-iron stomachs (and bladders) can perform a base jump off a platform on the side of the tower and speedily drop 192m straight down towards the ground (while equipped with a flying suit and body harness, of course). That's around 10 seconds worth of free-fall before you land gentle in the awaiting Sky City plaza below – not bad.

For a similar yet more laid-back alternative, the SkyWalk experience may suffice. This option will let you traverse the Sky Tower from outside the glass on a 1.2m wide walkway that has absolutely NO railings or handles while your guide makes several stops along the way to point out key regional highlights and facts. You'll also have the opportunity to lean over the edge, supported only by your harness!

Regardless of if you're going for views, dining or to get the blood pumping, the Sky Tower is another of Auckland's essentials.

Location: Tamaki Drive, Auckland, NZ

Just outside the Auckland CBD is the area's popular SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium the card-carrier for the area's aquarium offerings and the home of New Zealand's only collection of sub-antarctic penguins and many other species of interesting marine wildlife.

The penguins exhibit in particular offers an experience that is fairly interactive, as many of them will actually approach the standing area as long as you're still enough and don't scare them off. If penguins are particularly your thing, there's also a special (optional) Penguin Experience that will take you on a behind-the-scenes aquarium tour and get out on the ice yourself.

A great option for those with kids in particular, there's a pretty good variety of marine life on display here, as along with the penguins themselves you'll also find giant stingrays gliding through the water, turtles, sharks, giant mantas and plenty of other amazing deep-sea creatures.

"A great option for those with kids in particular, there's a pretty good variety of marine life on display here, as along with the penguins themselves you'll also find giant stingrays gliding through the water, turtles, sharks, giant mantas and plenty of other amazing deep-sea creatures."

Depending on the crowds – it's ideal (although obviously not always possible) to avoid school holidays – you'll likely want to spend anywhere from 2 – 4 hours here for the exhibits alone, while there is also a regular lineup of shows, feeds and talks from 11:00am in the morning through to 3:30pm in the afternoon that can extend the experience even more.

Facilities are generally quite good as well, in particular the shark-themed mini bus which will take you from the quay which can save both your legs and your energy. Kelly Tarlton's sits right on the water of Auckland's Okahu bay, making it highly accessible and easy to get to in around a 10 minute drive from the CBD.

A day out at Kelly Tarlton's provides a great marine experience that serves as a fun and entertaining wet-weather day alternative to the likes of Auckland Zoo (see below).

Location: Curran Street, Auckland, NZ

Auckland's harbour is an impressive feature in and of itself, and its bridge plays a big part in adding to the area's charm. Consisting of 8 car lanes and spanning the gap over Waitemata Harbour from St Mary's Bat to Northcote, it's the NZ north island's longest road bridge and the second biggest in the country.

It's a common saying by Auckland residents that the pain of the everyday commute is eased greatly by the spectacle of breathtaking views, and its here that the bridge shines offering a different vantage point of the city that looks even better in person than on postcards.

Auckland's got its reputation as being the “City of Sails” to live up to, and from the bridge its easy to see why; from the top, you'll have a direct view to the city's marina where boats of all kinds can be seen sailing on the beautiful waters as well as the city skyline.

Looking at the bridge from elsewhere is also pleasant; its got a design that, while not as spectacular as some of the others from over the world is still pleasing to the eye, dominating the waterline with its sleek looks.

"It's a common saying by Auckland residents that the pain of the everyday commute is eased greatly by the spectacle of breathtaking views, and its here that the bridge shines offering a different vantage point of the city that looks even better in person than on postcards."

If you're looking to get the best possible photographic shot of the bridge, you'll want to view it from a boat. In the end, it can basically either be seen as an impressive feat of architecture and engineering, or “just a bridge” depending on whether you're the glass-half-full or half-empty type.

One of the true highlights of the bridge however is that it offers visitors the chance to participate in a climb experience with Auckland Bridge Climb by AJ Hackett that will allow you to harness up and join your fellow climbers to see the harbour from one of the best available angles.

It's a distinctive way to mark your time in Auckland, with the climber-guides offering up some informative and entertaining commentary over the course of the 1.5 hour adventure. Once atop the bridge you'll be privy to some wonderful, uninhibited views of local landmarks such as Waiheke and Rangitoto Islands, the harbour and the city itself.

More than “just a bridge” (we're the “glass-half-full type), the Auckland Harbour Bridge is a big part of both the city and its sightseeing offerings as a whole.

Location: Motions Road, Auckland, NZ

The largest collection of wildlife exhibits in all of New Zealand can be encountered at Auckland Zoo – one of the most acclaimed zoological venues in the entire southern hemisphere.

Friendly and knowledgeable staff, an always-improving environment for the animals and an ever-changing variety of weird and wonderful creatures on display throughout the year ensures that families will have a great day out.

A winner of numerous national and international environmental awards, the zoo is home to over 750 animals comprised of 120 different species and set in comfortable park-like surrounds with highly authentic animal environments that ensure the creatures are comfortable, active and easily viewable.

Auckland Zoo benefits from a logical, well-planned layout that makes getting around to see the various animals a breeze, and unlike many other zoos it's built on fairly flat ground that can go a long way to saving your legs (and those of tired kids) while walking around for several hours. The diverse array of animals here is impressive; as well as local icons such as the Kiwi bird, the exotic varieties on display that include the likes of elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras and more go a long way to rounding out the experience.

"Friendly and knowledgeable staff, an always-improving environment for the animals and an ever-changing variety of weird and wonderful creatures on display throughout the year ensures that families will have a great day out."

The sheer number of animals means that you'll likely get a full day's entertainment out of your visit assuming you take it easy and don't rush, and it's easy to fill in any empty gaps by visiting one of the numerous zookeeper talks that take place throughout the day (varying throughout the week) and feature everything from the giraffes, to orangutans to the Galapagos tortoise.

Carefully planned, reasonably priced, well-maintained and easily accessed from most central accommodation, Auckland Zoo provides a great opportunity to see a large variety of animals for all visitors to the city at a reasonable price (particularly if you bring your own food along with you). If you've ever wanted to see the Kiwi up close and fulfil that most “NZ” of experiences, this place is a must-visit.

Location: Viaduct Harbour, Auckland, NZ

One of New Zealand's most inspiring yet organic wildlife encounters comes courtesy of the expansive and wildlife-rich waters that surround the harbour city. Hopping on a vessel and heading out from Viaduct Harbour provides opportunities for exploration of the expansive Hauraki Gulf Marine Park - one of the most biologically and geographically diverse marine parks in the world that coves an area of over 4,000 square kilometres.

Local operator Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari are a family-owned business running since 2,000 that provide highly-regarded journeys through this diverse marinescape, with tours that run directly from a convenient departure point at the city centre.

Focused around walking the fine line between tourism and conservation and doing it well, the company offers trips that encompass viewings of a wide array of wild mammals and seabirds amongst their natural surrounds.

The company has an eye towards conservation efforts in a practical sense, as well; contributions from passenger bookings go back towards conservation efforts, with staff knowledgeable marine researches who boast an incredible amount of both passion and information on this slice of New Zealand's waters.

Focused around walking the fine line between tourism and conservation and doing it well, the company offers trips that encompass viewings of a wide array of wild mammals and seabirds.

As a result, it's not merely the sightseeing and animal spotting that makes these trips enjoyable - they also take a highly informative and educative angle that's all conducted with good humour and fun without ever coming across as boring or preachy.

Sights there are aplenty, however - the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park serves as home to almost a third of the world's populations of southern hemisphere marine mammals which have been identified in its waters. This translates directly into high chances to animal spotting, with marine sightings of whales, dolphins and more all extremely frequent.

In addition, as opposed to standard whale watching tours, travellers with Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safaris will also have the chance to spot rarer species of whales - such as Fin and Blue Whales - rather than the more standard humpback-only sightings most other whale watching tours in Australia and New Zealand offer.

Tours are conducted aboard their spacious and comfortable vessel, which provides ample viewing space and room for sitting outside. It's the staff that help make it special, however; they're extremely friendly, passionate about their source material, and always happy to answer any questions that may pop up from passengers.

Overall, this is an ideal experience for visitors from abroad or locals alike - and any locals who have not yet hopped on board and enjoyed this experience should make a note to give it a go in the near future. You'll be surprised at the diversity which surrounds your city.

Location: The Auckland Domain, Auckland, NZ

For an affordable – yet no less impressive – attraction in and around Auckland, you can't go wrong with a visit to the historic and comprehensive Auckland Museum. The museum features a nice blend of both Maori and European historic influences which reflects Auckland's background as a whole, with a wide range of exhibits on offer.

Its key focus is the Maori and Pacific Island collection, which provides a touching inside look at the trials, tribulations and artistic achievements of both of these proud peoples.

Polynesian art and artifacts in particular are intriguing to see, and its Pacific Masterpieces section on the ground floor showcases some of these at their best – it's hard for us today to believe that these people navigated the Pacific Ocean in mere canoes!

Many of the pieces here are exceedingly rare and well-preserved examples of their craftsmanship, from the outrigger canoe Vaka Tapu to the Malagan mask Kovabat si mi Marada.

"The Museum's key focus is the Maori and Pacific Island collection, which provides a touching inside look at the trials, tribulations and artistic achievements of both of these proud peoples."

War also plays a key part in the museum's displays, and there are a variety of interesting exhibits detailing New Zealand's involvement in various wars that are on the whole very well curated.

These exhibits and galleries go into greater detail on World War I and World War II in general, while specifics on the likes of the Spitfire aircraft and a moving tribute to victims of the holocaust also feature.

Natural history also feature significantly in the displays as both New Zealand's history of fauna (the giant Moa bird plays a key role) as well as geological development (think volcanoes and volcanic activity) are covered here.

When visiting the Auckland Museum you'll have the choice of both exploring yourself or taking a guided tour which can provide more in-depth information on some of the sections for which information can sometimes be lacking – although at an extra cost. However considering the sheer variety of things on display here, it still represents wonderful bang for your buck if you spend a reasonable amount of time in the museum.

Lastly, a tip of the cap must be given to the park which the museum is found in – it's a stunning place in and of itself that, coupled with the architectural style of the building, adds yet another reason to pay Auckland Museum a visit.

Location: Hauraki Gulf, Auckland, NZ

A stark contrast to the raw volcanic spectacle of Rangitoto Island is Tiritiri Matangi Island, a veritable showcase of NZ wildlife that has been painstakingly repopulated with selected species of native birds that has now paid off, creating a sort of “open zoo” that also happens to be rich with scenery, history and intriguing architecture at the same time.

Bird life aplenty is the name of the game on Tiritiri Matangi, and you don't have to be an avian fanatic to appreciate the sheer diversity of species that can be found here, each adding their own distinct call and splash of individual colour to the environment.

All you have to do is take a stroll down one of the walking tracks and you'll see – and hear – the likes of saddlebacks, New Zealand pigeons, whiteheads, bellbirds and takahe on all sides, with plenty of sugar feeding stations and water troughs to attract the birds, bringing them out of the woodwork and making getting a clear look at them a breeze.

Tiritiri Matangi Island has been designated as a “pest-free” zone meaning that it is completely devoid of predators that could have a negative impact on the birds and their food sources. As a result, many endangered species now call the island home, and after years and years of planning, may use it as a stepping stone towards increasing their numbers.

Birds are far from the only highlight of the island, however; as a place that's got a fairly colourful combined Maori and European history dating back to over 600 years ago, there are still examples of their impact that are standing to this day – the most prominent of which is the island's lighthouse. Built back in 1864, Tiritiri Matangi Island's lighthouse is the oldest still-functional lighthouse in NZ, and is in remarkably good condition.

"Bird life aplenty is the name of the game on Tiritiri Matangi, and you don't have to be an avian fanatic to appreciate the sheer diversity of species that can be found here, each adding their own distinct call and splash of individual colour to the environment."

Nature stands out in other ways on the island as well; the island has been heavily revegetated and features a huge number of native plants – reflective of the amazing effort by volunteers who have taken the time to plant somewhere over 280,000 trees – which can be enjoyed along any of the walking tracks you choose to explore.

The trails are extensive and are suited to all fitness levels while also being well-maintained with plenty of stops and feeding stations to break up the journey and ensure there's always something to look at along the way. Perhaps the only downside is that there are no places to eat on the island (a necessary evil for its conservation efforts), so be sure to pack lunch and some drinks for your trip to this oasis of natural beauty.

Getting to Tiritiri Matangi Island from Auckland is doable via cruise with 360 Discovery Cruises but also restricted; to limit the impact of mankind, the number of trips per week is strictly limited, so you'll likely have to book several days in advance to ensure you're able to get a spot on the journey over. The trip takes about 1.25 hours from Auckland (and the boat ride is a picturesque adventure in itself) and is mostly smooth-sailing all the way.

If you're looking for one of the best living examples of the efforts of modern conservation in action, then you'll soon see why Tiritiri Matangi Island is well-deserving of the title of Top Place to Visit in Auckland.