Photo: AlasdairW, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
A sculpture by Michael Parekowhai in the form of a 1950s house, which sits on the end of the wharf. You can't enter the house, but you can look in the windows at the lighting display inspired by the southern skies and a stainless steel sculpture of Captain James Cook. The artwork was installed in 2017. It can be viewed any time, but it may be best to avoid days when cruise ships are alongside.
© OpenStreetMap contributors
A public square outside Waitematā Station. Its basalt paving forms a whāriki, or welcome mat, and the space is used for events and civic gatherings.
Many interesting exhibits chronicle New Zealand's maritime history, including actual yachts from the America's Cup and interactive displays and machines. There is an Auckland harbour cruise on an old-style cargo scow that takes about 1 hour and costs extra (adult $25). You can also see the "ship in a bottle" exhibit, and meet the volunteers working on the models.
Explore the beautiful Hauraki Gulf Marine Park during a 4.5-hour marine eco-safari on a purpose-built vessel, the Dolphin Explorer. They have years of experience and guarantee that you will see marine mammals – or your next trip is free.
Cathedral of Saint Patrick and Saint Joseph
Busy catholic cathedral which can have 3000 attend one of the 4 masses on a Sunday. The foundation stone of this traditional stone building was laid in 1884, on a site granted by the Crown in 1841.
At 328 m, this is the tallest free-standing tower in the Southern Hemisphere, offering views of up to 80 km away and fine dining in the Orbit revolving restaurant.
A short tram loop, run by MOTAT. Operating hours and length of loop in operation depend on the redevelopment in progress in the area. Two vintage trams are used on this route.