NEW ZEALAND MARITIME MUSEUM
Cnr Quay & Hobson Street, Auckland. +64-9-373 0800. Entrance fee. $$. Auckland residents. Free. Open 7 days. 10am-5pm. Last entry 4pm. Closed 25 Dec.
Located in a great location by the harbour, the museum’s collections contain artifacts from earliest Polynesian settlement to modern times, including early seafaring vessels. There are several great spaces, with exhibitions that include immigrants to New Zealand, the story of Sir Peter Blake, a quirky display of 1950’s Kiwi beach store and bach (beach house), a stunning collection of model ships, and so much more. Highly recommended, especially if you’re a fan of maritime history. For an additional fee ($$$) you can take a trip across the harbour on heritage vessels Ted Ashby, Nautilus, or the cute steam tug SS Puke.
EWELME COTTAGE
14 Ayr Street, Parnell. +64-9-524 5729. Entrance fee. $. Open Sun 10:30am-4:30pm. Closed 25 Dec.
The modest 19th century cottage is simply marvelous, given the fact that much of the interior and objects inside the house remain largely unchanged from when it was last used (1968), thereby giving a wonderful snapshot of what life was like so many years ago. The cottage also contains books dating back to the 16th century, sheet music, costumes and photographs. Film fans may recognise the drawing room and veranda from the Academy Award winning New Zealand film ‘The Piano’. Worth a visit, even if only to walk around the house and 19th century garden and imagine yourself living here, far removed from modern comforts and technology. Limited opening hours, so plan your visit carefully.
HIGHWIC
40 Gillies Avenue, Newmarket (carpark and entrance around the corner in Mortimer Pass). +64-9-524 5729. Entrance fee. $. Open Wed-Sun 10:30am-4:30pm. Closed 25 Dec and Good Friday.
This impressive historic mansion was built in 1862 and gives a glimpse into the life of wealthy colonialists. It was the home of Alfred Buckland, a businessman who came to New Zealand from England. Interpretive panels throughout the house provide more information on the history of the home and its occupants. A number of outbuildings also survive, including the stables and billiard house, and the Victorian garden comprises many trees that date from the same period. Highwic is one of the last remaining original pioneering mansions in Auckland and is worth a visit.
ALBERTON
100 Mount Albert Road, Mount Albert. +64-9-846 7367. Entrance fee. $. Open Wed-Sun 10:30am-4:30pm. Closed 25 Dec and Good Friday.
Alberton mansion was built in 1863, a year after Highwic (see above) and showcases the lifestyle of a wealthy colonial family. The original farmhouse was considerably smaller but it was gradually expanded over the years, and barely a decade later it consisted of 18 rooms. The interior doesn’t seem as grandiose as the exterior would suggest, but then again, this was a working farm. Home to Allan Kerr Taylor, the house includes thousands of authentic artifacts and period furniture, and you almost expect the family to come back any minute. This is one of the best preserved colonial homes in the region and even the wallpaper in many of the rooms are original. The extensive lawns and original outbuildings are also a delight. Even if you’ve been to Highwic, Alberton is worthy of a visit.
EDEN GARDEN
24 Omana Avenue, Epsom. +64-9-638 8395. Entrance fee. $. Open 7 days. 9am-4pm. Closed 25 Dec.
Situated adjacent to the Mount Eden Domain, Eden Park boasts a large collection of plants, most notably rhododendrons, camellias and bromeliads. This small but lovely garden was created from an old quarry, on the slopes of Mount Eden. Several paths meander through an assortment of mature trees, native bush, and streams, and at the top of the garden are great views towards the city. This is one of the wonderful hidden gems of the city, so make time for a visit, and enjoy some fine baking at the onsite café.
ODYSSEY SENSORY MAZE
Metro Centre, 291-297 Queen Street, Auckland. +64-9-365 1145. Entrance fee. $$. Open 7 days. 10am-10pm.
Enter a world of darkness where the only chance of finding your way out, is to be guided by (often deceiving) lighting effects and scents. Challenging spaces, quirky obstacles and great sound effects make this a fun activity for young and old. Don’t try to find your way out as quickly as possible – take your time and enjoy all that is on offer.