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).
