Sky Tower - an unforgettable sight

Popularly known as the "city of sails", with the sheltered Waitemata Harbor at its doorstep dotted with hundreds of yachts, Auckland boasts of many nautical events and is the most lively and multicultural city in New Zealand.

Located between the Waitemata and Manukau harbour, its geography is such that glistening waters seem to beckon from every point. It is a water lover's paradise, with some of the best beaches, swimming, diving, fishing, sailing, windsurfing and other water sports in the country. It's a place where everyone lives within a 30 minute drive of white sand beaches, lush rainforest, over 20 regional parks and a maritime playground embracing 50 islands. Nevertheless, with a landscape dominated by volcanic hills, and breathtaking scenery, exciting nightlife and alternative shopping experience from Queen Street to flea markets and other diverse attractions has made Auckland, much more than merely a hotspot for the seasoned sailor.

One such attraction is the Sky Tower, offering spectacular views over all of Auckland. At 328 meters in height, it is the tallest man-made structure in New Zealand with three unforgettable viewing platforms and Auckland's only 360-degree rotating restaurant. The viewing platforms are accessed by way of glass-fronted lifts, which can whiz up the tower in a speedy 40 seconds! The Main Observation levels features state-of-the-art technology, providing live weather updates and touch screen computers containing geographical data while the Outdoor Viewing Platform consists of high-powered binoculars and is clearly not for the faint hearted! The highest public observation area is the Sky Deck, with seamless glass that provides 360-degree unobstructed views that simply take one's breath away. For more thrills and excitement visitors can Skywalk round the pergola at 192 meters up or for a greater rush, simply Sky Jump off the tower, which is one of Auckland City's "don't miss!" experiences.

Auckland city makes a great base for exploring North Island scenic highlights such as Cape Reinga, The Bay of Islands, Coromandel, Waitomo Caves, Rotorua and Taupo and a stay in one of the many hotels in Auckland would complete the total ?Kiwi experience'. The Langham Auckland is one of the better known hotels Auckland NZ that is a haven of tranquility in this vibrant city, which is conveniently located within walking distance of the commercial center and waterfront, one mile from Sky Tower, and approximately 15 miles from Auckland International Airport.