Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki — A Rich Tapestry of History, Heritage & Culture
Founded in 1888, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is New Zealand’s largest visual arts destination. The striking building, featuring beautiful Kauri columns, won the World Building of the Year award in 2011. Inside, visitors can explore permanent collections, rotating international exhibitions, and family-friendly events. The gallery also offers tours, a well-stocked shop, a Learning Centre, and a hidden arthouse cinema.
Best for: Art lovers, rainy days and relaxed cultural outings.
Allow: 1.5 to 3 hours.
Sky Tower — Auckland’s Iconic Height with Thrills, Views & Dining
At 328 metres, Auckland’s Sky Tower is New Zealand’s tallest structure, offering breathtaking 360-degree views up to 80 kilometres. Visitors can explore three viewing platforms, experience adrenaline-pumping SkyWalk and SkyJump adventures, or enjoy fine dining at Orbit 360˚, The Sugar Club, and the Sky Café. With its upgraded LED lighting illuminating the city skyline, the Sky Tower combines excitement, spectacular sights, and sustainability in one unforgettable destination.
Good to know: Sunset is the most popular (and busy) time to visit.
Allow: 60 to 120 minutes.
Wētā Workshop Experience — Dive into the Magic of Film Effects
Step into the imaginative world of Wētā Workshop with a 90-minute guided tour showcasing the creative process behind iconic horror, sci-fi, and fantasy effects. Encounter monsters, robots, interactive displays, and stunning set pieces that bring movie magic to life. Discover how practical effects are designed and crafted, then take home unique collectables and keepsakes from the Wētā Cave retail store for a truly inspiring visit.
Family tip: Best suited to older kids (8+), especially fans of fantasy films.
Allow: 90 minutes.
The All Blacks Experience — Celebrate Rugby Heritage
Through Innovation and Culture Discover the passion and legacy of New Zealand’s iconic rugby teams in this state-of-the-art, 45-minute guided experience. Featuring cutting-edge technology, the All Blacks Experience immerses visitors in the history, culture, and spirit of the All Blacks, Black Ferns, and other national teams. Feel the power of the haka, explore interactive zones to test your rugby skills, and celebrate the enduring importance of rugby in New Zealand’s story.
Good to know: Non-rugby fans are often surprised at how engaging it is.
Allow: 45 to 60 minutes.
Whale & Dolphin Safari — Explore the Wonders of the Hauraki Gulf
Embark on breathtaking tours across the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, where you can enjoy stunning views of Auckland’s skyline and harbour bridge while encountering whales, dolphins, and seabirds in their natural habitat. Home to an extraordinary diversity of marine life, including the rare Bryde’s whale, the gulf is a vital sanctuary for over 25 southern hemisphere marine mammals. Join the Dolphin Explorer to learn, appreciate, and help protect this incredible underwater world.
Good to know: Bring warm layers and a camera with a zoom lens.
Allow: 4.5 hours.
Safety tip: Take seasickness tablets beforehand if you’re prone to motion sickness.
NZ Maritime Museum — Celebrating Aotearoa’s Sea Stories
Discover Aotearoa’s deep connection to the ocean at the New Zealand Maritime Museum, where stories of people and the sea come alive through engaging galleries, events, and harbour sailings. Experience interactive exhibits like virtual yacht racing, traditional Polynesian vaka designs, and a rocking ship cabin. Don’t miss sailing aboard the heritage scow Ted Ashby, cruising the Waitematā with stunning views of Auckland’s skyline and Harbour Bridge.
Good to know: Sailing trips require a separate booking.
Allow: 1 to 3 hours.
AJ Hackett Bungy — Auckland’s Thrilling Harbour Bridge Leap
Experience the world’s first harbour bridge bungy jump with AJ Hackett Bungy. Begin with an exclusive bridge walk out to the retro ‘Bungy pod,’ suspended high above the Waitematā Harbour, where adrenaline builds before you take the leap. Feel the rush as you plunge over the water, taking in breathtaking harbour views — if you can keep your eyes open! Both SkyWalk and SkyJump include expertly edited photos and videos, perfect for sharing your daring adventure.
Family tip: Teens must meet height and weight requirements.
Allow: 1.5 hours.
AJ Hackett Bridge Climb — Auckland’s Exclusive Harbour Bridge Adventure
Only AJ Hackett offers this unique access to the Auckland Harbour Bridge, New Zealand’s one and only Bridge Climb, guided by your own expert tour leader. Over 1.5 hours, you’ll balance between watching your footing and soaking up spectacular harbour views. Feel like Spiderman as you scale this iconic landmark, surrounded by breathtaking scenery that even the toughest can’t help but admire. A full clamber experience that leaves you craving more.
Good to know: A moderate fitness level is recommended.
Allow: 1.5 hours.
SkyWalk at Sky Tower — A Thrilling Edge-of-the-World Experience
Step out 192 meters above Auckland on the SkyWalk for an adrenaline-fueled adventure like no other. Secured by a safety harness, you’ll traverse the narrow platform with panoramic views of the city, harbour, and coastline unfolding around you. Feel the wind rush past as you soak in breathtaking vistas and the buzzing energy below, all while supported by expert guides and a platform engineered to withstand fierce winds. This is a heart-pounding experience you’ll never forget!
Family tip: Best suited to older children and teens with confidence at heights.
Allow: 75 minutes.
Auckland Adventure Jet — High-Octane Harbour Thrills
Blast around Auckland Harbour on a turbocharged 23-seater jet boat for an adrenaline-pumping 35-minute ride. Enjoy heart-racing spins, tricks, and sweeping turns as you take in stunning city sights from the water. Departing hourly from Pier 3A by the Ferry Building, Auckland Adventure Jet is the perfect mix of sightseeing and thrill-seeking.
Good to know: Wear warm, waterproof layers. Lockers available for personal items.
Allow: 35 minutes.
Safety tip: Not suitable for those with back or neck problems.
Tepid Baths — A Historic Hub for Swimming & Fitness
Refurbished in 2012, Tepid Baths blends heritage charm with modern facilities, featuring poolside cabanas, classic tiling, and a state-of-the-art gym. It’s a welcoming space for all ages and abilities to learn swimming through expertly guided classes designed to build skills and confidence. The gym offers cutting-edge cardio and weight equipment, complete with SKY TV on cardio machines, so you can stay entertained while you work out. Tepid Baths is truly a timeless Auckland institution.
Good to know: Heated pools make it perfect year-round.
Allow: 60 to 90 minutes.
The Classic Comedy Club — Premier Comedy Venue
Opened in October 1997, New Zealand’s only full-time professional comedy club quickly cemented its place as a beloved institution in the local entertainment scene. Open up to seven days a week, The Classic features a vibrant lineup of live comedy from Wednesday through Saturday. Beyond stand-up, it regularly hosts local bands, private functions, and special festival events, making it a dynamic hub for laughs and live entertainment in the city.
Family tip: Not suitable for children — plan as an adults-only night out.
Allow: 2 - 3 hours.
Odysseum — Next-Level Indoor Entertainment Experience
Forget typical indoor fun — Odysseum offers something truly unique and exciting for all ages. Reimagined and revitalized by founders David Parker-Smith and Michelle Moray-Cook, this 100% New Zealand made, owned, and operated venue brings innovative entertainment designed to thrill everyone, from the young to the young at heart. Get ready for an adventure unlike any other!
Best for: Families, groups and rainy days.
Allow: 60 to 90 minutes.
Metrolanes — Next-Gen Bowling & Entertainment Hub
Metrolanes brings a fresh take on entertainment with 12 full-size tenpin bowling lanes, split into three unique areas to suit all styles of play. Enjoy a full bar serving a wide selection of cocktails, wines, and spirits, alongside a chef-inspired restaurant menu to fuel your fun.
Good to know: Book in advance for evenings/weekends.
Allow: 1 to 2 hours.
Holey Moley — Mini Golf, Cocktails & Karaoke Fun
Holey Moley is a vibrant two-storey golf club concept bar featuring a multi-sensory mini golf course with 27 themed holes. Sip on creative cocktails, including lolly-themed drinks, or enjoy craft beers while DJs spin live tunes. With a full kitchen serving burgers, loaded fries, and bar snacks, plus Auckland’s most stunning karaoke bar, Holey Moley is the ultimate spot for a fun, Instagram-worthy night out with friends.
Family tip: Visit earlier in the day for a more family-friendly atmosphere.
Allow: 1.5 to 2 hours.
Auckland War Memorial Museum – Iconic & Insightful
Set in the beautiful Auckland Domain, this iconic museum is one of New Zealand’s finest. Discover the story of Aotearoa through world-class Māori and Pacific collections, natural history exhibits, and powerful war memorial galleries. With interactive displays, rotating exhibitions, and a stunning heritage setting, it's a must-visit for visitors of all ages.
Good to know: Free for NZ residents with ID.
Allow: 2 to 3 hours.
Wintergardens – Historic & Blooming Beauty
Step into a world of botanical charm at the Auckland Domain Wintergardens. Opened in 1913, these elegant Victorian-style glasshouses showcase rare and exotic plants—like the infamous corpse flower—alongside seasonal floral displays. Wander through tropical and temperate houses, admire marble statues in the sunken courtyard, and enjoy a peaceful moment in this heritage gem just a short walk from the museum.
Best for: Garden lovers and photographers.
Allow: 30 to 45 minutes.
SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s – Dive into an Underwater Adventure
Explore the wonders of the ocean at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s, one of Auckland’s top family attractions. Get up close with the world’s largest sub-Antarctic penguin colony, come face-to-fin with massive stingrays and sharks, and discover unique marine life like Spiny Sea Dragons and glowing jellyfish. Wander through immersive ocean tunnels, visit rescued sea turtles, and marvel at New Zealand’s largest collection of sharks. For the brave, try the Shark Cage Adventure or step into the icy world of the Penguin Passport experience—perfect for those wanting to meet penguins face-to-face. An unforgettable journey beneath the surface awaits.
Family tip: Penguin Passport and Shark Cage are unforgettable upgrades.
Allow: 2 to 3 hours.
Waiheke Island – Wine, Waves & Wonder
Just a 40-minute ferry from Auckland, Waiheke Island is a favourite destination for good reason. Often ranked among the world’s best islands, it’s famed for its stunning beaches, award-winning vineyards, local art, and laid-back lifestyle. With over 50 wineries and a warm microclimate, Waiheke is a wine lover’s paradise. You’ll also find craft breweries, boutique distilleries, and a vibrant food scene featuring locally sourced cuisine. Explore golden beaches like Oneroa, Palm Beach and Onetangi, or head off the beaten path to discover hidden gems like Enclosure Bay and Rocky Bay. Swim, hike, kayak or just unwind under a pōhutukawa tree. Don’t miss the charm of Oneroa Village, the thrill of EcoZip Adventures, or the inspiration of the island’s many galleries and Sculpture on the Gulf trail. Whether it’s a long lunch with a sea view, a coastal walk, or a day on the water—Waiheke is where you come to indulge, relax and recharge.
Best for: Day trips, food lovers and scenic explorers.
Allow: Half or full day.
Safety tip: Pack sunscreen, water and check tide times for beach visits.
