Auckland is regularly voted one of the best lifestyle cities in the world. The cosmopolitan urban centre is complemented by great escapes within half an hour of downtown. With its many islands, harbours and beaches Auckland is a water paradise. There is a huge range of activities to do, not only in the water but also in and around Auckland. Sky Tower, Auckland

At 328 metres Sky Tower is the tallest tower in the Southern Hemisphere (taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris or Sydney's AMP Tower). The Sky Tower is about as tall as 37 buses end on end! Offering breath-taking views for more than 80 kilometres in every direction, it's an unmissable attraction in Auckland. On a clear day you can see approximately 82 kilometres (51 miles) from Sky Tower. Sky Tower has three circular public observation levels, (Sky Deck, Main Observation level and Sky Lounge), from each of which you can get a 360 degree view of Auckland. The Sky Tower in Auckland is New Zealand's largest entertainment and leisure complex, and New Zealand's most visited attraction. It attracts one out of every two international tourists visiting Auckland. The Islands of the Hauraki Gulf Sailing, Rangitoto on horizon

The Hauraki Gulf, on the doorstep of Auckland city, is home to a multitude of remarkable islands. Walk to the summit of Rangitoto, a black lava volcanic island Go wine tasting and beachcombing on Waiheke Island Sunbathe and swim at Motuihe Island Discover the historic Mansion House (and wallabies) on Kawau Island Visit the wildlife sanctuary on Tiritiri Matangi Island Have a wilderness adventure on Great Barrier Island Waterworld Explorations Hunua Falls, Auckland

From central Auckland you can be on the water in a matter of minutes. Charter a yacht and make your own adventure around the Hauraki Gulf Go swimming with the dolphins Take the ferry across to Devonport and enjoy a light cafe lunch and a spot of shopping Hire a kayak—join an evening paddle to Rangitoto Island Fresh Air and Action The Auckland region has 22 conservation parks—endless scope for outdoor activities. Go hiking in the Waitakere Ranges Have a 4WD (four-wheel drive) motorbike adventure in Woodhill Forest Play a round of golf at Formosa or Gulf Harbour Visit Auckland Regional Botanic Gardens, home to the Tourism Award Winning 'Ellerslie Flower Show' History, Art and Culture What made New Zealanders the way they are? Find out. Koru Art

Auckland War Memorial Museum is the custodian of the finest and most important collection of Maori treasures, or taonga, in the world New Zealand National Maritime Museum showcases New Zealand's maritime history Howick Historical Village recreates the early settlement of Auckland Shadowcatcher Gallery—rare and vintage works by pioneer New Zealand photographers Auckland City Art Gallery houses a comprehensive collection of New Zealand and international art Good All Round Family Fun Auckland has attractions with any-age appeal. Go up the Sky Tower, for amazing views of the city and beyond Kelly Tarlton's Antarctic Encounter Underwater World gets you up close and personal with sharks and penguins Auckland Zoo is always fun Have a thrilling day at Rainbows End Adventure Park at Manukau City Beyond the City Zone From downtown Auckland, it takes only 30 minutes to put yourself in a different world. Follow the Winemakers of the Auckland wine trail Explore the wild west coast beaches of Muriwai, Bethels, Piha and Karekare Discover Clevedon valley - country crafts, gardens and boutique wineries Go north to Waiwera Thermal Resort for a dip in the hot pools or for a replenishment treatment Take your snorkelling gear to Goat Island Marine Reserve