Take a trip under the ocean at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s and get up close and personal with more than 80 aquatic species. Get your Penguin Passport for a once-in-a-lifetime chance to spend an hour with the world’s largest sub-Antarctic penguin colony. See a whole new perspective on underwater life as you journey though the world’s first curved aquarium tunnel, travel back in time to Scott’s Antarctic, and discover more incredible creatures who call the ocean home through over 30 immersive and interactive exhibits.
Take your holiday to new heights with a visit to the Sky Tower, Auckland’s tallest building. The incredible 630-degree views, spanning 80 km in every direction, are reason enough to visit, but while you’re there, older kids may also want to step out of their comfort zone with the SkyWalk around the tower’s edge or an adrenaline-pumping SkyJump. Just as thrilling, but without the stomach-drop and shaky knees, the Skyslide is a virtual reality tour of the city’s skyline. Soar and slide down virtual glass tubes, all while safely strapped to a seat on the 51st floor.
Inspired by Academy Award-winning Wētā Workshop, Wētā Workshop Unleashed takes you behind the scenes of film sets and into whole new worlds of horror, sci-fi and fantasy. Explore interactive environments, get hands-on with special effects and props, and encounter realistic monsters, giants and aliens through a mind-bending 90-minute tour.
Discover why rugby is so much more than a game at the All Blacks Experience. Whether you love rugby, or want to understand what all the fuss is about, you’ll find this interactive tour an eye-opening opportunity to see what it takes to pull on the Black jersey. Test your own rugby skills in hands-on, interactive zones, learn more about legends of the game and feel inspired by the full force of the haka.
After your All Blacks experience, explore the Viaduct Harbour and neighbouring Commercial Bay. Have a bit to eat, indulge in some shopping in Commercial Bay’s stores or simply watch the world (and the boats) go by from a harbourside restaurant.
Jump on a Fullers360 ferry for a 40-minute trip across Auckland’s scenic Waitematā Harbour to Waiheke Island. EcoZip Adventures will pick you up from the ferry terminal and take you right to the treetops, where you can glide above lush native canopies, get a bird's-eye perspective of a working vineyard and have uninterrupted views back to the city. Perfect for families, this adventure combines excitement and education for all ages.
Relax after the morning’s thrills in the picturesque grounds of The Heke. Set on four acres, there is a playground, a giant inflatable jumping pillow, a fleet of Tonka trucks and plenty of safe space and beautiful gardens for the kids to explore, while you sit back and enjoy one of the Heke’s well-known tasting flights. Little bellies will find something to their liking on the kids’ menu, or The Heke’s wood-fired pizzas are also a popular choice for family lunch. Adults and teens can tee-off, whatever the weather, at the on-site golf simulator, which gives you access to 10 different courses from around the world.
Explore Oneroa, Waiheke’s largest township, a laid-back village with an interesting selection of stores, arts and souvenirs, restaurants and cafes. Grab an ice cream from Island Gelato and wander down to Oneroa Beach, located below the village. This stretch of golden sand is a popular spot for swimming; let the playground entertain the kids while you enjoy an ice cream in the shade of a pōhutukawa tree.
Head out into Auckland’s big blue backyard with Tīkapa Moana Whale and Dolphin Wildlife Cruise. You’re in for an unforgettable day exploring the Hauraki Gulf, encountering marine mammals and birdlife, and learning about the history and conservation efforts of the islands and coastline.
Depending on the season, you may spot playful dolphins, orcas and migrating humpback whales, resident Bryde whales, as well as penguins and seals. With large windows and expansive viewing decks, everyone gets a front-row seat to nature’s spectacular show.
Or join a city tour with Power to the Pedal tour. Let an e-bike do the hard work for you, while you cruise along dedicated cycle lanes, weaving through Auckland’s favourite neighbourhoods and parks. You’ll not only take in iconic sights of the city, but also get to discover places that only locals know about, with live commentary and fun facts from your guide through a cycle tour headset.