SkyCity: Auckland’s Entertainment Capital
Dominating Auckland’s skyline is the sleek, silver Sky Tower. Standing proud at 320 meters tall and constructed from 15,000 cubic metres of high strength, high performance concrete, it currently stands as the southern hemispheres tallest building.
Built in the 1990’s in the run up to the millennium, the aesthetically pleasing Sky Tower has proved a prosperous asset to the city. It has seen some 750,000 visitors per year and joint with the SkyCity complex (www.skycity.co.nz), it has become Auckland’s entertainment capital.
Sky Tower’s main observatory level sits 186 meters above ground and provides 360° views over Auckland. From this prime position you can spot all the major attractions, Rangitoto volcano, the Harbor Bridge and Auckland’s War Memorial Museum. On a clear day you can see for 82 km, or even watch the busy business district below by standing over the glass floor panels. Entry to the observation level is $13, yet for an extra $3 you can continue your journey 43 meters to the sky deck viewing platform.
My advice would be to take advantage of one of three excellent restaurants located in the tower. At 182 meters stands Sky Lounge Café: guaranteed to provide more of a thrill than your normal Starbucks. Proceed eight meters higher and you will reach Orbit restaurant. This à la Carte dinning experience is accentuated by the ingeniously revolving platform. Not only will you have the most envious view in town, you’ll see a different side of Auckland with every course. Those with a healthy appetite can continue another four meters and enjoy the seafood specialties from the all you can eat Observatory Buffet.
You may want to consider letting your seafood buffet settle before participating in the next Sky Tower activity. If you’ve ever dreamt of experiencing the rush of the worlds highest tower-base jump, then this is your perfect opportunity. After plucking up the courage to fling yourself from the looming gangplank, you are left to dangle mid-air 192 meters above ground. After regaining your breathe, a 85km/h plummet awaits before gently arriving on the landing platform. Still interested? Jumps are $170, with repeat jumps $65.
If just watching the dare-devil jumpers makes you feel on edge you could spend an hour or two relaxing at the East Day Spa (www.eastdayspa.com). The spa offers a range of treatments from eyebrow threading and waxing, to facials and massage packages. As soon as you step into East Day Spa the hustle of Auckland’s streets are forgotten. The calming solitude created by the exotic and mystical Eastern décor, intriguing scents and herbal tea awaits your arrival.
As the sun goes down SkyCity comes to life. An evening is best begun dinning in one of the main restaurants within the complex. It seems there is something for everyone. Ming Court hosts a variety of Asian specialties, Fortuna Buffet for those ready to take on a selection of different cuisines, or dine, a chance to feast on the gourmet creations of the internationally renowned chef, Peter Gordon.
After dinner an evening at SkyCity can commence in several different ways. Holding New Zealand’s largest conventions centre, SkyCity will often host sports events or charity functions. Alternately, SkyCity’s 700-seat theatre presents evening performances with a different lineup every few weeks. Shows and events can be booked online at www.ticketek.co.nz or through the SkyCity hotel reception.
SkyCity casino is a major attraction for guests and locals alike. Once you step onto the gaming floor you will be greeted by the hypnotic chiming of flashing machines, the constant jingling of kiwi coins, and delighted cheers from excited winners. The vibrant mood may tempt you to try your own luck on the enticing machines. If gambling isn’t your thing, the buzzing atmosphere alone will certainly keep you entertained - there are often live bands performing or salsa dancing beside the bar. The best view of the gaming floor can be found at Aces Bar where you can enjoy a refreshing drink. Located on an elevated platform you will definitely be better positioned than those at the poker table.
If your luck runs out on the gaming floor it doesn’t have to be the end of the night. Bar 3, located above the casino, is definitely on my list as one of the best bars in Auckland. The bar has both a large dance floor and a relaxing lounge area with comfy leather sofas – making it versatile for after dinner drinks or the last club before home. After midnight, Bar 3 provides a lively atmosphere with upbeat music in an upscale location. It is here the DJ plays the hottest music and waiters serve the strongest Long Island’s in the city.
After a long night in Auckland’s entertainment capital the last thing you want is a long walk home. Fortunately the SkyCity complex houses two hotels, the SkyCity Hotel (4 star) and the Grand Hotel (5 Star). These luxury hotels are located in the heart of the city center and provide all the usual amenities. With everything close at hand, there is no doubt staying at either hotel will make your SkyCity experience complete.