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World Travel Guide > Guides > Oceania > New Zealand > Auckland

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Things to do in Auckland

Bungee jump off Auckland Harbour Bridge

For some, the idea of hurtling themselves off a bridge with only a rope attached to their legs is terror personified, but for others it's the ultimate rush. If you fall into the latter category, a 40m (131ft) leap from the famous Auckland Harbour Bridge is a must. AJ Hackett (tel: +64 9 360 7748; www.bungy.co.nz/auckland) can sort you out.

Go full kiwi immersion

Although it's not native to New Zealand, there is no foodstuff so wrapped up with a country's identity as the kiwi fruit. At Kiwi 360 (tel: +64 7 573 6340; www.kiwi360.com), approximately three hours drive from Auckland, you can see how the fruit is grown, climb its famous Giant Kiwi structure and eat them until you're green in the cheeks.

See the stars at the Stardome Observatory

Situated in Auckland's Cromwell Park is the Stardome Observatory (tel: +64 9 624 1246; www.stardome.org.nz), which is open day and night, giving visitors the chance to gaze on the twinkling skies above the city. Rock up for one the Planetarium shows, sit back and let one of the observatory's experts take you on an immersive tour of the cosmos.

Turn into the undead

A zombie is for life, not just Halloween - at least that’s what they think at Body FX (tel: +64 800 263 939; https://bodyfxshop.com/pages/learn). The body art studio can turn the aspiring undead into the physical manifestation of their imagination’s darkest depths. It’s not just zombies though - learn how to face paint like a boss or plaster cast a monster.

Visit the volcanic island of Rangitoto

Just 25 minutes off the coast of Auckland is the volcanic island of Rangitoto. Only 5.5km (4 miles) wide, its unique landscape of jagged lava crops, verdant bushland and sandy coves make it the ideal place to spend a day exploring. Look out for fantail birds, grey warblers and silvereyes. Get a ferry over with Fullers (tel: +64 9 367 9111; www.fullers.co.nz).

A digital image at https://illuminoto.com

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Featured Hotels

The Langham

Oozing classic style, the Langham is one of Auckland's top hotels and offers all the creature comforts that go with the luxury tag, including a spa and fine dining options. Rooms are elegantly furnished and spacious, and service is meticulously attentive. Ideally situated in the city centre, the hotel also provides a complimentary shuttle bus to and from Custom Street, near the waterfront.

Peace & Plenty Inn

Without exaggeration this is one of the finest B&Bs in the entire country with sumptuous restored kauri-timber floors that feel like silk beneath bare feet leading to exquisite en-suite rooms filled with fresh flowers antique furniture and sherry or port decanters. There is a delightful verandah for breakfast (weather permitting) and the meal itself is an event of major proportions with large healthy and hearty portions.

Kiwi International Hotel

This modest but decent hotel is located in the middle of the city and is only a 25-minute drive from the airport. Rooms are functional and offer en suite facilities; some budget rooms with shared bathrooms are available. Amenities include a bar, a restaurant and laundry services, as well as 24-hour reception and off-street parking. It's a little shabby and age-worn in places, but is overall a good-value place with a friendly reputation, and in a handy location.

Jucy Snooze Hotel

This oddly-named but friendly budget hotel features bright, simple rooms with flat-screen TVs and en-suite bathrooms; there are also cheaper, more basic, hostel-style rooms. As well as an on-site coffee shop, the hotel offers a lounge and shared kitchen facilities. The hotel is a short walk from the waterfront, with its vibrant nightlife and restaurants.

City Lodge

It won't win any design awards, but City Lodge offers central accommodation that is secure, comfortable and great value. Small, simple rooms come with tiny en-suite bathrooms, minifridges, TVs and biggish windows. There's also Wi-Fi (additional charge), a shared kitchen and quiet reading room. A great backpackers' option in Auckland's overcrowded budget market.

The Heritage

Auckland's most distinctive luxury hotel was originally the city's best known and historic department store, Farmers. The landmark building has an iconic reputation and is a wonderful example of Southern Hemisphere art deco styling. The Heritage has two separate accommodation wings, made up of 467 rooms and suites, a tennis court and two swimming pools (one roof-top). There's also a health club, a glass atrium and, best of all, a grand tearoom with fantastic views of the harbour. Though showing its age somewhat (although its due for a refurb), this grand old Auckland hotel is style and luxury personified.

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