Five of the best: Attractions in town

The Shark Cage in Kelly Tarltons allows you to get close to residents of the underwater world. Photo / Greg Bowker

1. Motat
805 Great North Rd, Western Springs. Ph (09) 846 0199

Motat's a good bet for an educative, fun day out. Just to start, check out the Aviation Display Hall, the Playing with Light exhibition, and the 100 Years of Flying photographic display. The little colonial houses are always a treat, too.

2. Auckland Museum
Domain Dr, Parnell. Exhibition Hall, Atrium. Open daily, 10am-5pm. $5 entry fee. Ph (09) 306 7048

Head to the Poisoners exhibition - in which inquiring minds are invited to solve a mystery at Auckland Museum: who murdered the brilliant scientist Professor Felix Splicer and how did they do it? Kids will love the interactive excitement.

3. Auckland Zoo
10 Motions Rd, Western Springs. Ph (09) 360 3805

When was the last time you went to the zoo? Apart from all the fascinating animals, its grounds are a lovely place to hang about when it's sunny. If you're extra-organised or time's short, visit the "Plan Your Visit" section of the website and lay out your trip strategically so you don't miss out on anything.

4. Auckland Art Gallery
Corner Kitchener and Wellesley St, Auckland CBD. Ph (09) 307 7700

Spending time in the newly renovated gallery is a pleasure in itself, but there are lots of interesting exhibitions on over the summer too. Right now, Whizz Bang Pop comes highly recommended; sculpture, painting, photographs, videos and prints that bring your senses roaring to life.

5. Kelly Tarltons
23 Tamaki Dr, Orakei. Ph (09) 528 0603

Take in this magical underwater world the regular way or be daring and brave it with "Shark Cage", where you'll come face-to-face with predators of the deep, separated only by a cage.