Top stops for families in Auckland

1 Top of the pops for me is that great aquatic temple in Tamaki Drive, Kelly Tarlton's. Home to the first walk-through tunnel aquarium in the world, Kelly's continues to innovate and expand. The king and gentoo penguins are a huge crowd-pleaser, and the fluffy chicks add an extra thrill as they pop into the world through February and March. The main tank teems with more than 1500 fish and five savage-looking sand tiger sharks have been this summer's biggest hit. Kelly's has also introduced a range of adrenaline-pumping activities, including a shark cage.

2 When you've had your fill of sea life, the Auckland War Memorial Museum, with its glorious vantage point to survey the city, is packed with exhibits. The Maori court has a wealth of indigenous treasures including the meeting house. Children love the Discovery Centre, a constantly changing interactive exhibition.
3 If a cool change is required, Parnell Pool is a cracking choice. The 60m pool is Auckland's only salt water pool, originally built as a tidal pool in the 1850s, enclosed by a striking stone and glass mosaic-encrusted wall. A great spot to chill-out.
4 Auckland is not a place you would associate with ski sports, but a family-favourite is Snowplanet, New Zealand's only indoor ski facility, featuring two slopes, three chair-lifts and set in the faux-alpine environment of -5C.
5 The National Maritime Museum at Viaduct Quay is not a fusty, dusty house of boredom for kids. They love it. Admire the
Hawaiki collection of canoes from Polynesia and don't miss the Rocking Cabin, a multi-sensory attraction which gives visitors a simulated sample of life on an immigrant ship bound for New Zealand.
6 In a city studded with volcanic cones, you'll never be short of a panoramic viewing point, but if your kids are keen to go interstellar, head to One Tree Hill and the wildly popular Stardome Observatory. The all-sky 360-degree theatre twinkles with 3500 stars.
7 Before departing Auckland Airport, stop by Rainbow's End in Manukau if rollercoaster initiation is on your family's check-list.
The Corkscrew remains this country's only serious rollercoaster, but the Dragon's Flight and Gold Rush rides serve as helpful lead-ins to prepare the nerves.
8 One last enticing stop, close to the airport, is Butterfly Creek. As well as the butterfly house there are farmyard animals, a mini-golf course and a miniature train ride. Tailormade for family fun.