The Central City is where most travellers will start their exploration and visit to Auckland. The main drag, Queen Street, runs from the top of a hill, along what used to be a stream, to the downtown area. Along the way you can find a bunch of great shops, bars and cafes. Being the core of the City of Sails, the area contains pretty much everything you can think of. From hotels to hostels, from book stores to martial arts supplies, bars, pubs, clubs, shopping centers, its all here. Discover wonderful arcades and quaint boutique stores. The only thing you will be hard pressed to find is a free parking space. Sky City is said to be New Zealand's most popular entertainment and leisure destination, so you will probably want to drop in and have a look. The tower is the tallest building in the southern hemisphere, so its not surprising that you can get some great views from up there. Even the elevator is fun, it zips you up to the observation at a rather brisk pace! Sure beets taking the 300 od meters of stairs. The views of Auckland city and its surroundings is breathtaking whether you see it by day or night. The best time to head up though is late evening. If you're lucky you'll catch a breathtaking sunset and then be able to watch the city light-up out of the night. You can also have a marvelous meal experience at the Orbit - a revolving restaurant at the top of the tower. Its a bit dear, but well worth the amazing food and stunning views. The Sky City houses two casinos as well as a number of restaurants and bars, and also a theater. There's quite a lot to get up to here and is well worth a look. Although there are always vibrant places to head out during week nights, it is during the weekend that the city center really comes alive. Queen Street on Friday and Saturday nights, metamorphoses into a fashion walk for cars. Fully worked machines of all creed and colour, some lowered some with blowers and others blaring bass, can be found strutting their stuff, at snails pace, along the congested parade ground. There is no noise limit and the atmosphere is amazingly charged! Add to an electrically-charged atmosphere a vast array of great clubs and pubs, with music ranging from jazz to hard house, and you've got the makings of a fun-tastic night out! For more ideas of where to go for a drink and a great night out, check out our drink and play sections. While in the city center you'll probably at some stage want to check out Victoria Park Markets. The vicky markets are a great place to pick up souvenirs and have and have a look at some unique craft and art shops. Probably one of the best market areas in Auckland, you'll be getting better deals than those in Queen Street. You will definitely find some great gifts here and maybe something for yourself. If you feel like absorbing a bit of culture and art you should make sure you visit the Auckland Art Gallery. There are always great exhibitions that change regularly, and also some more permanent collections of New Zealand art. If you're in more of a history mood, the Auckland Museum has the finest collection of Maori and Pacific treasures in the world, along with scores of other fascinating exhibits. Either way, when you come to Auckland you'd be hard pressed to avoid the City Center. There's something for everyone here so have a great time! | | | |