Things to do in Auckland & Northland

Auckland's landmark Sky Tower has observation levels and Orbit 360° Dining, and SkyCity also hosts Wētā Workshop Unleashed, a tour of how practical film effects are made. Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum in the Auckland Domain, with its Māori cultural experience, and eat seafood at the waterfront Auckland Fish Market in Wynyard Quarter. Ferries run to the vineyards and beaches of Waiheke Island and to Rangitoto Island, Auckland's island volcano, and Piha's black-sand surf beach lies in the Waitākere Ranges. Further north in the Bay of Islands, cruise from Paihia to Motukōkako (Hole in the Rock) and visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed.

Good to knowRangitoto has no food, drinking water or much shade, so carry supplies, wear sturdy shoes, bring a torch for the lava caves and check your gear for pests and seeds before you go. Orbit 360° Dining at the Sky Tower needs a booking, and the tower may close in bad weather or for private events. Driving is the easiest way to reach Piha.