Established in 1987, this well-known gallery deals in both contemporary New Zealand paintings and sculpture, and international works by select artists. It promotes the growth of art in the country by presenting established and new artists. In addition, a monthly exhibition contributes towards the diversity and vitality of art here. Some of those represented at Gow Langsford include Shane Cotton and Max Gimblett. Forthcoming exhibitions will include the works of Colin McCahon, Michael Parekowhai, Dale Frank, Mervyn Williams, Shane Cotton and Christopher Braddock.

The Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki houses and displays the largest and most comprehensive collection of New Zealand and international art in the country. First opened in 1888, this Victorian-esque building is built in the French Chateau style. The various temporary and permanent exhibitions at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki feature artworks that span numerous periods and art mediums. This extraordinary art gallery is home to timeless works of art attributed to native as well as international artists. The gallery also boasts other amenities such as a library, a shop and a café.

The ferry run to Devonport is a great way to see the bustling waterfront and port of Auckland and take in great views of the city skyline. The destination is Torpedo Wharf on the Devonport foreshore. Devonport is reminiscent of a quaint English seaside village with lots of interesting shops, cafes and restaurants. A walk up North Head is rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the city and outer gulf islands.

1000 years of maritime history are revealed in creative ways on the harbor's edge. The museum features numerous restored vessels, some afloat in the marina. Daily cruises are offered on the scow, which sets sail when the cannon is fired at noon. Learn the stories of Polynesian voyaging, immigration, navigation and whaling. Meet Salty Sam! Use the interactive exhibits or join the model-makers workshop. There is also a café and store.

One of New Zealand's earliest museums, the Auckland War Memorial Museum houses some of the country's largest collection of Maori and Pacific Island taonga (treasures), as well as a heritage library. It also has fantastic interactive discovery centers for children, as well as the Scars on the Heart exhibition of New Zealand war history. A 20-minute Maori cultural performance featuring songs, poi dances, stick games, a weaponry display and haka also takes place here. The steps of the Auckland War Memorial Museum offer splendid views over the Cenotaph forecourt to the Domain, the city, the Waitemata Harbour, and beyond.

Home to over 100 species and thousands of animals, the Auckland Zoo has committed itself to improve the living conditions of one of New Zealand's largest collection of native and exotic animal species. Visitors can marvel at the rare white rhinos and zebras on the Pridelands, or observe their favorite animals at one of the many zoo tracks, such as the Australia Bush Track or the South America Rainforest Track. Safari nights, photography workshops and specially designed experiences make for an enriching visit. The zoo also has outreach and educational programs for both visitors and local groups and is available for corporate and private functions.

The brainchild of marine archaeologist Kelly Tarlton, this wonderful aquarium features underwater passageways that allow you to observe diverse sea life in gigantic tanks. Large sharks, gliding stingrays and many species of fish found in New Zealand's waters are above and beside you as the moving floor carries you along. Feeding time is an especially exciting experience that visitors must not miss. The Antarctic Ice Adventure display features live penguins and a recreation of life on the great southern continent, whereas Turtle Bay houses rehabilitated turtles in a large acrylic tank. Visitors should ideally allow up to two hours to fully appreciate these combined attractions.

Also known as Maungakiekie, One Tree Hill is a terrestrial elevation which is characterized by typical volcanic features like scoria cones. This volcanic peak was once marked by a single 120-year-old Totara tree at the top, which was later cut down leaving only the stump to mark its existence. The land is now interspersed with a few trees which were later planted by the Tupuna Maunga Authority in 2016. The summit of Maungakiekie features a very prominent obelisk, fronted by the statue of a Māori warrior, it's lofty perch granting a panoramic view of the surroundings. Underneath the obelisk lies the burial place of Sir John Logan Campbell, who was actively involved in the construction of this memorial to the Māoris. An elevated swathe of open land, One Tree Hill is an ideal location for stargazing.

At 260 meters (850 feet), Rangitoto is Auckland's largest and youngest volcano. It last erupted over 600 years ago and is covered in regenerating forests and barren lava flows. Views from the summit are incredible on a clear day, with vistas to Kawau Island to the north and Great Barrier and Little Barrier to the north-east. Access to this volcanic island is provided by ferry and a 45-minute walk up the well-maintained track leads to the summit. A tractor and trailer, booked in conjunction with the ferry, also goes up to the summit.

The steep 30-minute walk from the car park to the lookout at the summit at 390 meters (1280 feet) is well rewarded with spectacular views of the regenerating forests in the valleys and exposed steep slopes of the southern Waitakere Ranges. On clear days you can see Taranaki 200 kilometers (125 miles) to the south. Mt Donald McLean is accessible from a gravel road branching off from the main Huia-Whatipu road.

With magnificent views of the Firth of Thames and the Coromandel Peninsula, Tapapakanga has been occupied by a succession of Maori and Pakeha since the initial occupation of New Zealand 1000 years ago. This is evidenced by pa sites, a stone garden with lines of stones delineating individual plots and a 1900s era kauri timber homestead, built by the Ashby family. A short walk along the cliff top from the car park and you are afforded fantastic views. Mountain bike trails and a safe pohutukawa-lined swimming beach are other attractions at the 167-hectare (400-acre) park.