On your next visit to the city centre, take a moment to immerse yourself in all that Auckland has to offer. From thought provoking exhibitions, to trying international delicacies, or watching an indie film, the city centre has it all. This is your guide to getting cultured in the heart of the city.
New Zealand Maritime Museum | Corner of Quay and Hobson Street
Our country is surrounded by beautiful and extensive oceans, and the New Zealand Maritime Museum offers an in-depth representation of our maritime history. A current and unmissable exhibition is titled A Year in Aotearoa, with images from the New Zealand Geographic Photographer of the Year 2020 Competition. Learn some interesting facts or simply take in the stunning images on offer at the museum.
Have a go sailing an America's Cup boat using a 5G similuator, at the new 5G Race Zone attraction at Wynyard Quarter.
Spark 5G Race Zone | Emirates Team New Zealand Base, 161 Halsey Street
Get closer to the America's Cup that ever before with this special interactive attraction celebrating our country's unique passion for sailing, which is open and free for groups ahead of the 37th America's Cup in Auckland this coming March. The 5G Race Zone gives visitors the opportunity to feel, create, learn and even smell all things sailing – without getting on the water – by bringing together the best of sailing and technology in seven fully interactive zones. Each of the seven zones at Spark’s 5G Race Zone tap into the different benefits of 5G: speed, low latency and mass connectivity.
Academy Cinemas | 44 Lorne Street
Make your way down the stairs into Academy Cinemas, a boutique cinema constantly screening both new and classic films for avid film buffs. An afternoon film outing, whether it be solo or with friends, can be the perfect way to get cultured and treat yourself. If it's a movie marathon of Back To The Future or a current film festival pick, Academy Cinema consistently delivers the goods.
Guo Pei, Collection: Garden of the Soul, 2015, © Guo Pei. Photograph by LIAN Xu, courtesy of LIAN Xu.
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki | Wellesley St E
With a collection clocking up to 15,000 works, Auckland Art Gallery is the largest art institution in New Zealand. Every new exhibition offers unique perspectives and experiences. From War Damaged Musical Instruments, portraits of Leonard Cohen and tributes to the flightless extinct Moa, you will leave the gallery having learnt something new and expanded your mind.
Small plates at Tanuki's Cave | 319 Queen St
Located down a steep staircase and in a dimly lit cavern, Tanuki’s Cave will make you feel like you are dining right in the heart of Japan. Order some warm sake and choose from a delicious array of small plates and yakitori. The centrepiece of Tanuki’s Cave is the wraparound bar, where patrons can perch and watch the fast paced and lively flow of service.
Jazz at Wynyard Grill | 142 Halsey St
Jazz is a musical genre alike no other, one filled with improvisation and brimming with creativity. For a cultured afternoon head over to Wynyard Grill for live jazz. Sip on a cocktail and nibble on treats with some friends while soaking up the atmosphere and great tunes.
Step into a fantastical film effects workshop and explore the worlds of horror, sci-fi and fantasy in-the-making at Weta Workshop Unleashed.
Step into a fantastic film experience at Weta Workshop Unleashed | SkyCity
Step into a fantastical film effects workshop and explore the worlds of horror, sci-fi and fantasy in-the-making with the new Weta Workshop Unleashed experience opening at SkyCity on December. It’s a journey through the famous special effects company's creative process that needs to be seen to be believed, featuring monsters, giants and robots, interactive elements and displays, set-pieces from the worlds of horror, fantasy and sci-fi and more.
Image is indicative only
Korean Food Tour | Aotea Square
Become introduced to the rich world of Korean cuisine within the heart of the city, with the help of knowledgeable food guides. Beginning in Aotea Square and ending in Chancery Square, the three hour tour will allow you to try 8-9 delicious dishes along with Korea’s world famous Soju. Come with an empty stomach and be prepared to tantalise your tastebuds.