 Attractions
Auckland Museum: Located in the Domain it has one of the world's largest collections of Maori exhibits including the only surviving war canoe. Extinct giant moa. New Zealand, Pacific, Asian and European art. Maori cultural groups regularly perform inspiring hakas and there is a coffee lounge, shop and free guided tours available.
Rainbow's End: If it is excitement that you are after then this is the place for you, with go carts, simulators and a corkscrew rollercoaster it is guaranteed to leave you with your heart in your mouth.
Glenbrook Vintage Railway & Farm Park: Ride behind a real steam locomotive with a round trip of 50 minutes. Other features include, Jigger rides, locomotive workshop tours, gift and food shops and a picnic area with children's playground. There is also mini-golf for your entertainment. Located on Glenbrook Station Road.
Howick Historical Village: A restored settlement with a unique living museum of 1840 to 1880 period delightful early colonial atmosphere. Costumed historical interpreters add to the atmosphere, along with the restored schools, chapels and homesteads. Located at Pakuranga.
Kelly Tarlton's South Sea Adventure: Journey through a wonderland of snow, ice and Antarctic Wildlife. See live King Penguins, discover Captain Scott's Hut, frozen in time since 1911 and look at live Antarctic Marine life. There is an Underwater World, souvenir shop and cafe. Views of Waitemata Harbour. Located at Orakei.
Museum of Transport and Technology: Displays of technology and transport including vintage trams, aircraft, steam machinery and fire engines. There is a Victorian Village (1840-1900), 1920's street and interactive science displays. loads of fun for everyone. Located at Western Springs.
New Zealand National Maritime Museum: A working New Zealand maritime history. Galleries include immigration, whaling, navigation, Polynesian voyaging. There are boat builders, woodturners and model makers workshops and harbour cruising on the scow "Ted Ashby". The museum is an exciting dynamic, new generation museum celebrating New Zealand's maritime heritage and the voyaging traditions and craft of the Pacific. Located in Auckland.
Victoria Park Market: Set in historic buildings and courtyards it includes fashion boutiques, jewellery, original souvenirs and momento's, art galleries, cafes and restaurants. These markets cater for everyone and fill your day with interesting things to do and see. Located in Auckland.
Parnell Village: boasts colonial style boutique shops. The village has become a leading attraction where you can take time to enjoy a cappuccino at one of the outdoor cafes, or for a more varied taste sensation, experience any of Parnell's superb restaurants which offer a wide range of cuisine.
Sky City : Auckland's most visible new attraction is Sky City with its imposing tower. Underneath stands the impressive Harrahs's Casino with over 1000 slot machines and 97 gaming tables. Additionally the Sky City complex boasts a 344 room hotel, 700 seat live theatre, convention centre, four restaurants , three bars, retail shops and hundreds of inner city car parking spaces. Breathtaking views from the glass fronted lifts taking visitors to the observation decks.
Auckland Art Gallery: holds the largest collection of New Zealand works in the country, including prominent early masters such as Lindauer and Goldie. There are also British and European collections which change regularly.
Gulf Islands: expeditions by ferry or charter boat are another exciting and romantic way to travel. Most ferry services operate from a short stretch of quayside between Queens and Princes Wharves behind the Ferry building in downtown Auckland. Intending passengers should arrive at the waterfront early in the morning to assess the sea conditions and choose an appropriate destination- Devonport, Rangitoto, Motutapu, Motuihe, Rakino, Waiheke or Great Barrier Island. Waiheke Island has beautiful beaches, athriving arts community and world class wineries.
Rangitoto Hiking: Trail leads to the summit through the pohutukawa forest. It's a stiff climb but the reward is a wonderful view. For those wanting a more relaxing journey to the summit, catch the Rangitoto Island Explorer- a 30 minute tractor ride.
The Thames: School of Mines has a fascinating collection of relics from the area's gold mining days.
The Rapaura Water Gardens: A half hour drive north of Thames are worth visiting. A leisurely walk through the cool native vegetation will bring the visitor to the "Seven Steps to Heaven" waterfall.
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