Maori Bone Carvings, Matua (Fishhook) Design © New Zealand Tourist Board
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 artefacts 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 Centre 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;
Telephone: (0)9 309 0443 or (0)9 306 7067;
E-mail: 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;
Opening time: 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
Auckland sky tower © NZ Tourism Board - Fay Looney
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
harbour and the gulf islands. It is part of the Sky City
Entertainment Complex, with a casino, theatre, hotel and conference
centre. 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;
Telephone: (0)9 363 6000;
E-mail: skytower@skycity.co.nz;
Website: www.skycity.co.nz;
Opening time: 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
