SKYCITY Hotel Auckland, North Island

rooms

The hotel has 323 rooms - all recently refurbished. Stunning views over the courtyard, city skyline or the harbour along with air-conditioning, a private bathroom, minibar and satellite TV and 24-hour room service. Choose from premium city view with either a king sized bed or twin with two double beds. Or the deluxe city or harbour views with either a king sized bed or a twin with two double beds and their designer bathrooms. Alternatively go for a suite with spacious living and dining spaces and a separate bedroom. Select a king bed or twin with two double beds and spectacular harbour or city views.

Alternatively upgrade to the grander sister, the Skycity Grand. Luxurious and exclusive, access is via a skybridge from the Sky Tower. This 5 star destination hotel offers sumptuous, 5-star rooms and premier suites with views of Auckland Harbour and the city skyline. Guests enjoy award-winning restaurants and bars, a fitness centre and a palatial spa. Or just spend the day celebrity spotting – it is the hotel of choice for VIP's and film stars in downtown Auckland.

facilities & activities

While the hotel itself features a fitness centre and gift shop, along with free Wi-Fi, a 37-inch flat-screen TV and an iPod docking station in each room, it is really the treats on the doorstep that will tempt you. The nearby SkyCity casino is an attraction in itself with 24 hour entertainment including live shows, a destination casino, a theatre and numerous cafes, restaurants and bars. Or if you've a head for heights then ride to the top of the iconic Sky Tower in its mesmerizing glass lifts and gaze at the 360 degree view from the top of New Zealand's tallest man made structure. If just standing and staring isn't enough then you could always take one of the Skywalks round the Pergola or just hurl yourself off the top with SkyJump. Exhilarating. Recover your senses (and nerves) with a drink at Orbit – and literally watch the world go round in the unique revolving restaurant set at the top.

Recover from the excitement of SkyTower by booking East Day Spa through the concierge. Situated next to the hotel it is one of the countries biggest and most luxurious spas, renowned for its authentic Eastern holistic treatments. Centuries-old healing practices dissolve stress, relax the body, calm the soul, and clear the mind.

Or ask the hotel to book your trip to Waiheke Island, just a 35 minute ferry trip. Enjoy the pristine white beaches along with award winning wines and while away the afternoon overlooking the Hauraki Gulf from the gorgeous vineyard.

And of course, being right at the heart of Auckland means the city and all its attractions are within easy striking distance.

dining

Fortuna Restaurant offers modern Australian and international cuisine, including fresh salads, a carvery and Asian specialities. There is also a buffet breakfast menu, with unlimited tea and coffee and freshly baked breads available for a surcharge and served each morning between 6.30 and 10am. However, with the Sky Tower and Federal Street on your doorstep the extensive choice for delectable cuisine is extraordinary. Federal Street is famous for its great restaurants – ask the concierge for insider tips and then indulge. Sky Tower itself is home to a myriad of lovely relaxed cafes, stylish bars, authentic a la carte chinese or italian cuisine and of course, Orbit - the stunning revolving restaurant. So good it deserved another mention - make yourself dizzy by standing on the glass windows set into the floors and the 'drop-away' view.

But at the end of the day if you need to rest your weary head then room service is available 24 hours a day.

family

In true kiwi style children are welcome here. Choose from king sized double beds or twin roomed double beds – ideal for a family. All children under 12 stay for free if using an existing bed and all under 2 are free if they are in a cot or crib. Rollaways and extra beds are available (only one extra per room) but the hotel can offer connecting/adjoining rooms on request.

Being at the heart of Auckland, you won't be short of choice for eating options with little ones, and children aged 0-3 are free when dining at Fortuna. Orbit in the Sky Tower offers a yummy selection of child friendly fare that includes a set menu of a main, dessert and soft drink.

And of course Auckland itself is a hub for kiddie friendly treats. From thrilling theme parks to unforgettable wildlife encounters, beautiful parks and beaches there's something to keep all ages entertained. Auckland Museum and zoo are firm favourites and the east coast beaches are safe for little ones. If the sea is a little chilly you could also try the thermal pools at Parakai or Waiwera. Or head to the recently opened waterfront space at Wynyard. They'll love riding the 1920’s heritage trams or the maritime-themed playspace. Encouter dolphins and whales in the Hauraki gulf or meet new species at Butterfly Creek. And when you've done all that then tuck them up, take advantage of the babysitting services at the hotel and relax.

location

The location is unbeatable, right in the heart of the city, on the corner of bustling Victoria and Federal streets. It is also close to the University of Auckland and Mount Eden – Auckland's highest volcanic suburb with it's spectacular 360 degree views of the city and harbours. Auckland airport in an easy 45 minute drive and there is parking available at the hotel (reduced price for guests) or the option of valet parking.

Alternatively hop on the airbus – a shuttle service to and from the airport that runs 24 hours a day. Taxis are easily accessible or its a quick 10 minute walk from Britomart, the city's central bus station, or the intercity bus terminal is directly outside.