Sky Tower

The Sky Tower rises from the corner of Victoria and Federal Streets in the middle of the CBD and is visible from almost everywhere in the city. It opened on 3 August 1997 after a construction period of almost three years, and its antenna reaches 328 metres. Designed by architect Gordon Moller, it was the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere for many years and remains Auckland's main broadcasting site as well as its best-known viewpoint.

Standard admission covers three levels. The Main Observation Level on level 51 sits at 186 metres and has 38-millimetre glass floor panels that let you look straight down to the street. The Lookout on level 53 is a little higher, and SkyBar on level 50 is an adults-only bar where photo ID is required. For a small extra charge you can go up to the Sky Deck on level 60, 220 metres above the city, which the operator describes as the highest viewing deck in New Zealand.

Orbit 360° Dining on level 52 is a revolving restaurant that turns through a full circle about once an hour, so a meal gives you the whole panorama of the harbour, the Hauraki Gulf islands and the volcanic cones of the isthmus. Bookings are essential.

For more adrenaline, AJ Hackett runs two experiences from the tower. The SkyWalk is a walk around the outside ring of the tower, 192 metres up, with no handrails, while the SkyJump is a cable-controlled jump from the same height that reaches speeds of up to 85 kilometres per hour. Both are booked separately from standard entry.

Opening hours change with the seasons, and the tower stays open into the evening throughout the year, which makes sunset and after-dark visits easy to plan. The tower may close during bad weather or private events, so check before you go. Tickets are valid for six months from purchase, and all children must be accompanied by an adult.

The Sky Tower suits first-time visitors, families and anyone wanting to get their bearings at the start of a trip, as the view makes the city's geography of harbours and volcanic cones much easier to understand. The tower is owned by SkyCity Entertainment Group and sits within its CBD complex, so it is simple to combine with a meal or a walk around the city centre.