Archive for the 'Things to Do' Category

The Auckland War Memorial Museum

September 19th, 2006

To gain a good understanding of New Zealand’s history, visitors should take a trip to the fascinating Auckland War Memorial Museum. This museum is famed for its natural history section, with numerous specimens of native species in the Hall of New Zealand Birds. Other highlights within the museum include, an ancient war canoe, an authentic Maori meeting house, and beautiful paintings of Maori chiefs. The Auckland War Memorial Museum is located in an area known as the Domain, a beautiful green space ideal for lunchtime picnics.

The Auckland Art Gallery

September 17th, 2006

Spanning two different galleries, a trip to the Auckland Art Gallery is a must for anyone with an interest in art. Both of the galleries are located in the centre of the city. The Main Gallery (on the corner of Kitchener and Wellesley Streets) boasts an extensive array of both national and international art, with an emphasis on traditional New Zealand art. The New Gallery (on the corner of Wellesley and Lorne Streets) emphasises modern art, with a focus on Maori and pakeha fusion. The Auckland Art Gallery also boasts a lovely shop.

Whangarei

September 17th, 2006

For a wonderful trip just outside the city of Auckland, visitors should head to the lovely town of Whangarei. Located in the Northland, this town boasts a population of 45,000, and it is the largest in the area. Whangarei is famed for its lovely gardens and it boasts the beautiful Whangarei Falls, which provides three river pools. Closer to Ngunguru, Whangarei Head offers visitors a choice of lovely beaches. The town is also home to the Clapham Clock Museum, which celebrates clocks throughout the ages.

Water sports

September 13th, 2006

For anyone interested in water sports, New Zealand is an idyllic location. Wherever you are in the country, you’re bound to be close to water. So whether you are close to sea, river or lake, New Zealand is certain to have a water sport to suit your tastes. Surfing, swimming and sailing are particularly popular amongst both locals and visitors, and beaches are generally well signposted to ensure swimmers’ safety. River-rafting, kayaking and diving are also popular.

Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World

September 13th, 2006

Adults and children are likely to enjoy a trip to Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World. Located under Auckland’s waterfront, this aquarium is housed in the city’s former storm water tanks. Within the clear tunnels, visitors can encounter amongst other creatures: penguins, piranhas, stingrays and sharks. Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World also boasts a life-size replica of the hut used by Captain Robert Scott, the Antarctic explorer. The aquarium is open daily, and sharks are usually fed at 2pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The Sky Tower

September 7th, 2006

One of the most striking landmarks in Auckland’s skyline is the impressive Sky Tower. Located on the corner of Federal and Victoria Streets (close to the harbour and the business district) the tower stands 328 metres tall and it is the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere. The Sky Tower offers visitors a fascinating audiovisual trip through the history of Auckland, as well as stunning views across the city from the structure’s observation deck. The Tower also boasts two restaurants that turn at one revolution per hour.

Auckland Zoo

September 6th, 2006

Auckland Zoo offers a wonderful family day-out for all visitors. The zoo is located close to the city’s business district, and it has recently undergone some impressive refurbishments. Auckland Zoo is home to a large number of fascinating zones, including a primate trail, a rainforest area and an aviary of native species. The zoo also supports a number of worldwide conservation efforts and plenty of local wildlife projects. The zoo is open every day except Christmas Day, and the entrance fee is $18 for adults and $9 for children – with discount family rates offered.