Rise above it all at the Sky Tower—Auckland unfolds beneath you like a living canvas: sparkling harbor, rolling hills, city lights pulsing with life. Standing at the observation deck, you’ll feel the true meaning of ‘seeing the world from above’—a moment that’s unforgettable and worth the climb!




















Everything you need to know about Sky Tower
SkyCity Grand Hotel is the top choice, directly opposite the Sky Tower, offering panoramic views of the city skyline and the tower itself. Many rooms feature 360-degree floor-to-ceiling windows, providing breathtaking vistas from sunrise to nightfall. The hotel is seamlessly connected to the SkyPath walkway, allowing guests to reach the Sky Tower Observation Deck in just 5 minutes. Additionally, its on-site Spa Centre delivers authentic New Zealand wellness treatments, making it a perfect base for exploring Auckland’s urban energy and scenic beauty.
The most convenient option is taking the free SkyBus shuttle or the City Rail light rail to Auckland City Station, a 5-minute walk from the Sky Tower. From the airport, the SkyBus Airport Express runs every 15 minutes and takes only 25 minutes. Taxis and Uber are also readily available but may face delays during peak hours. For cost-efficiency and seamless access to nearby malls and restaurants, we recommend using public transit with an Oyster Card.
Don’t miss the Sky Tower Observation Deck for panoramic views, especially during the nightly light show that illuminates the entire Auckland skyline. For adrenaline seekers, SkyJump offers one of the world’s highest commercial bungee jumps—plunging 192 meters from the tower’s pinnacle. Culture lovers can join the Sky Tower Food & Wine Tour, savoring local Kiwi cuisine and award-winning wines. End your day at SkyBar, where craft cocktails and live jazz blend perfectly with the city lights, creating a memorable finale.
Yes, both SkyCity Grand Hotel and Novotel Auckland SkyCity are ideal for families. They offer family rooms, children’s playrooms, and indoor heated pools. Free kids’ meals and entertainment programs are available. The hotels are within a 10-minute walk of Auckland Domain Park, perfect for family picnics and strolls. Plus, the Sky Tower Family Pass includes discounted tickets and private guided tours, making it easy for kids to enjoy the tower experience safely and fun. These hotels provide a secure, welcoming environment tailored for family travel.
Staying near the Sky Tower grants easy access to several top attractions. The Auckland Museum is just 700 meters away, showcasing Māori culture and Pacific history. Victoria Park, a scenic lakeside reserve, is perfect for jogging, cycling, or a relaxed picnic. Queen Street Shopping District lies a 10-minute walk away, featuring luxury brands and local designer boutiques. For a seaside escape, take a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day trip. All these sites are within a 1-kilometer radius, making them highly accessible for spontaneous visits.
Try The Original Seafood Restaurant in Viaduct Harbour, just steps from the Sky Tower, renowned for fresh oysters, mussels, and king crab, paired with local craft beer in a vibrant setting. For authentic Māori cuisine, visit Hāngī Feast at Te Pātaka o Aorangi, where lamb, potatoes, and pumpkin are slow-cooked in a traditional earth oven—rich in flavor and cultural significance. Don’t miss Brewery Lane Café, offering fusion breakfasts with signature avocado toast and smoked salmon. All are within a 10-minute walk, perfect for sampling genuine Auckland flavors.
SkyCity Grand Hotel is ideal for panoramic views of the Sky Tower and surrounding cityscape. Located directly adjacent to the tower, its upper-floor rooms offer unobstructed vistas of Auckland Harbour and the skyline. The hotel features The SkyBar, a rooftop lounge with 360-degree views perfect for sunset cocktails. Its prime location ensures easy access to the tower’s elevator, shopping malls, and dining options, making it a top choice for travelers seeking luxury and convenience.
The easiest option is the free SkyBus shuttle, which runs between the airport, major hotels, and the Sky Tower precinct—just a 15-minute ride. Alternatively, take the City Rail (electric train) to "Auckland Central" station, then walk 7 minutes through the city center. For those who prefer walking, it’s only a 10-minute stroll from the CBD, passing historic buildings and tree-lined paths—ideal for an immersive urban experience.
Beyond the main Sky Tower Observation Deck, try the thrilling SkyWalk—a glass-bottomed walkway suspended high above the city. Nearby, visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum for interactive exhibitions on Māori culture and Pacific history. At night, dine at Vivo Restaurant & Bar, offering modern New Zealand cuisine with views of the tower’s light show, creating a memorable evening experience.
Yes, SkyCity Grand Hotel and Novotel Auckland City Centre offer spacious family rooms, child-friendly amenities like playrooms, and complimentary baby beds. Both hotels are steps away from the Sky Tower Plaza, where kids can explore interactive art installations and safe pedestrian pathways. A short walk leads to the Auckland waterfront, ideal for strolling, biking, and educational nature trails—perfect for a stress-free, engaging family trip.
Don’t miss the nightly Sky Tower Light Show, illuminated every evening at 8 PM with dynamic color patterns and music. Head to The SkyBar or join the Māori Cultural Experience for evening performances featuring traditional dance and storytelling. The plaza also hosts live street performers and pop-up markets, bringing vibrant energy to the area—perfect for experiencing Auckland’s lively night scene.
Book in advance via the official website to avoid queues. Options include standard entry and express passes with priority access. Upgrade to a VIP Guided Tour for exclusive access to private viewing areas and expert commentary. Many hotels, including SkyCity Grand Hotel, offer bundled packages with accommodation and ticket discounts—saving time and money while enhancing your visit.
See what other travelers say about Sky Tower

My one-night stay at Rydges Auckland was absolutely fantastic, especially being right in the heart of the city. The main reason for our visit was to catch a concert at Spark Arena—just a 1.5km walk away, making it super convenient. The hotel's location was unbeatable, and the best part? Our room had a stunning view of the Sky Tower, which made the experience even more memorable. Despite being in such a prime spot, the rates were very reasonable—great value for money. Clean rooms, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere made this stay stand out. I’d highly recommend this property to anyone visiting Auckland, whether for events or just exploring the city.

Staying at Auckland Harbour Suites was an absolute delight, especially given the unbeatable location. Just a 2-minute walk from the iconic building housing the US visa office, it's perfectly positioned for both business and leisure travelers. I booked through the platform, and honestly, the price-to-location ratio is outstanding—this kind of convenience at this rate is hard to beat. Some reviews mentioned no air conditioning, but there is actually an air conditioner fan in the room. It does make some noise when running, so if you're out exploring or just prefer not to stay indoors all day, it’s not a major issue. The daytime cooling might be limited, but again, most guests won’t spend long in the room anyway. Parking is super accessible with multiple lots nearby—staying overnight (until 8 AM next day) plus a couple of extra hours costs around $50, which feels fair. Overall, if you're looking for a central, well-connected, and budget-friendly stay in Auckland with easy access to the harbor and city center, this hotel delivers on every front.

Staying at The Esplanade Hotel was an absolute delight from start to finish. The room was beautifully designed—spotless, stylish, and filled with a charming vintage vibe that made the stay feel truly special. Location-wise, it couldn’t be better: just a short walk to the city center, with easy access to public transit, restaurants, and top attractions. The views from the upper floors are breathtaking—especially the sea panorama that stretches out beyond the windows. Every detail, from the welcoming staff to the thoughtful touches in the room, showed excellent attention to quality. Service was prompt, professional, and genuinely warm. This place offers outstanding value and unforgettable comfort—highly recommend for anyone visiting Auckland.

The apartment was spacious and bright, making the entire stay incredibly comfortable. Located just a short walk from the metro station, getting around Auckland was effortless—whether heading into the city center or to the airport, everything was well-connected and convenient. What truly stood out was the outstanding value for money. Compared to other similar accommodations in the area, this place offers far better quality and pricing. I’d absolutely stay here again on my next visit to Auckland and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great balance of comfort, location, and affordability.

Staying at the Auckland Greenlane Edit was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk from public transit and close to local cafes, shops, and attractions. The staff went above and beyond with their friendly and helpful service, making check-in and check-out smooth and welcoming. One major highlight? Free parking for guests with cars—no extra cost, no hassle. It’s such a relief, especially if you’re planning to explore the city by car. The room was clean, modern, and well-appointed, offering great comfort after a long day of sightseeing. Overall, this hotel delivers excellent value and a truly enjoyable stay. I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Auckland.

I absolutely loved my stay at Tudor Court Motor Lodge! The room was spotless, private, and thoughtfully designed with a modern yet cozy vibe. It's incredibly quiet, making it a perfect retreat after a day exploring Auckland. The location is super convenient—just a short walk or quick ride on the train to the city center. Everything felt clean, well-maintained, and welcoming. I couldn't ask for more in a place to stay. Would highly recommend this gem to anyone visiting Auckland. 10/10, without a doubt!

Staying at this sleek modern studio was a fantastic experience, especially given its unbeatable location in Auckland. The building itself has a contemporary vibe and feels very well-maintained. I loved how walkable everything was—restaurants, cafes, shopping spots, and nearby attractions were just a short stroll away. The balcony was a real highlight; perfect for morning coffee or unwinding after a day of exploring. Even though the space is compact, it’s thoughtfully designed with modern touches that make it feel spacious and inviting. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want convenience without sacrificing style. Would definitely book again.

The location couldn’t be better—just steps away from the city center, with easy access to public transit and plenty of restaurants nearby. The rooms are small but perfectly cozy, spotlessly clean, and the beds are incredibly comfortable—great for a good night’s sleep. What really stood out was the 24/7 self-serve tea and coffee station at reception—so convenient and a lovely touch! The staff were fantastic—special shout-out to Daniel, Brian, and Tina for their warm hospitality and attention to detail. They went above and beyond to make our stay smooth and enjoyable. The hotel is very accommodating, and getting an Uber or catching a bus to explore the city was effortless. If you're looking for a reliable, well-located, and friendly base in Auckland, this is it—highly recommend!

This was our first stay at Ascotia Off Queen, and we were thoroughly impressed with the experience. The staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome throughout our two-night visit. (Quick note: the deposit is $250, not the $100 listed on the platform—we paid in cash and got it fully refunded upon checkout with zero hassle.) On the ground floor, opposite reception, there’s a cozy dining area offering both à la carte and buffet options, all priced fairly and served with care. Parking is limited, so booking ahead is strongly advised. We had no trouble finding a spot, though tight for larger vehicles—still manageable. Our room was compact but spotless and comfortable. The bed was clean and supportive, and the bathroom amenities—shampoo, body wash, and lotion—were thoughtfully provided. The only minor downside was limited storage space for luggage and a very small trash bin. Overall, this place exceeded our expectations. Great location, excellent service, and a really welcoming vibe. Highly recommend!

Staying at City Lodge Accommodation in Auckland was an absolute highlight of my trip! The location is fantastic—just a short walk from Queen Street and the waterfront, making it super convenient for exploring the city. I arrived from the international airport via the North Line train and then transferred to the NX1 bus, which took about an hour. With an AT Hop card, the fare was only around $5—great value for such a smooth journey. The room is on the smaller side, but perfectly functional with smart space utilization. What really stood out was the shared kitchen—it’s fully equipped and perfect for cooking up a storm. I even joined a group of fellow travelers to make and bake pizza together (check photos 2 and 3)—such a fun, social vibe! The area right outside the front door (photo 1) is clean, safe, and welcoming. Plus, the building is quiet at night, so sleep quality was excellent. Overall, this place offers great value, a friendly atmosphere, and unbeatable convenience. Ideal for solo travelers or small groups looking to connect and explore Auckland like a local.

Staying at Touchwood Motor Inn was a fantastic experience from start to finish. Our family of four found the room spacious, spotlessly clean, and incredibly comfortable—perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring Auckland. The staff went above and beyond with their warm hospitality, offering helpful tips on local attractions and even assisting with transportation arrangements. Their friendly and genuine attitude made us feel right at home. Location is convenient, just a short walk from public transit and close to dining options. With such a welcoming atmosphere, top-notch cleanliness, and excellent value, we’d happily return again. Highly recommended for families or travelers seeking comfort and charm in a relaxed setting.

We absolutely loved our stay at the Classic 3 Bedroom Home near Ponsonby Rd! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to Ponsonby Road’s vibrant cafes, boutiques, and restaurants. The home itself was spacious, clean, and thoughtfully furnished with everything we needed for a comfortable stay, whether it was a weekend getaway or longer visit. The three bedrooms made it perfect for our family group, and the kitchen was well-equipped for cooking meals at home. Great value for money, and the neighborhood felt safe and lively. Highly recommend this place if you're looking for a cozy, convenient, and authentic Auckland experience.
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