The 328-metre high Sky Tower is the prime lookout point in Auckland. It’s the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere and an iconic silhouette on the city skyline.

From there you’ll be looking out over breathtaking bodies of water hugging the mainland and stretching out as far as the eye can see, and if that sparks your sense of adrenaline, ascend to the 53rd floor to take the quick route down via the ‘Sky Jump’.

Where to Eat

Auckland loves dumplings. Don’t question it. Just get involved. Head to New Flavour Restaurant for some of the best and cheapest dumplings in town. The menu goes on forever and you can get about 20 morsels for just $13.

For fish and chips head to Greenwood’s Fresh Catch, an Auckland institution or for a taste of something different, head to Shaolin Kung Fu Noodle. They do a fantastic menu that offers great value for money.

Where to Drink

Brother’s Beer brew their own stuff and stock the best range of bottled beer in the city. Set in the City Works site (which has a range of food and drink options), it’s managed to turn an outdoor carpark area into one of the chillest spots in the city.

The Brewer’s Co-Op is another casual beer spot which offers a whole lot of options as well as gourmet food.

What the Locals Say

“Piha and Muriwai are great surf but if it’s the best sandy beaches you’re after head over to Orewa north of Auckland. There’s a lot of kitesurfers and windsurfers there, it’s great for families or dog walking and it’s a long beach as well, so there’s space for everyone” – Greg, ex-pat surfer.

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