Sky Tower
Auckland
The Sky Tower in Auckland, New Zealand, stands at 328 meters tall, making it the tallest structure in the Southern Hemisphere until 2022 and the 28th tallest tower worldwide. Completed in 1997, it has become a defining landmark of Auckland's skyline. The tower is part of the SkyCity casino complex and features multiple observation decks at varying heights, including the main observation deck at 186 meters with glass flooring and the highest Sky Deck at 220 meters, offering views up to 82 kilometers away. It houses New Zealand's only revolving restaurant, Orbit 360°, located 190 meters above ground, which completes a full rotation every hour. Besides sightseeing, visitors can experience the SkyWalk, a walk around the tower's exterior, and the SkyJump, a controlled 192-meter base jump reaching speeds of up to 85 km/h. The tower also hosts spectacular fireworks and light shows during New Year's celebrations, including the highest firework display in the Southern Hemisphere. Architecturally, the tower was designed by Gordon Moller and built with reinforced concrete and steel, supported by deep foundation piles. Its construction involved innovative engineering techniques such as climbing formwork and complex crane operations to install the mast. The Sky Tower continues to attract over 400,000 visitors annually, combining telecommunications functionality with tourism and entertainment.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit on clear days for expansive views and consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid queues. Evening visits offer stunning city lights and fireworks during New Year's. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and families. Reservations are recommended for the revolving restaurant to enjoy dining with panoramic views.
Interesting facts
- •The Sky Tower was the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere from 1996 to 2022.
- •It features New Zealand's only revolving restaurant, which completes a 360-degree rotation every hour.
- •The SkyJump is a 192-meter controlled base jump from the observation deck, reaching speeds up to 85 km/h.
- •During construction, 15,000 cubic meters of concrete and 2,000 tonnes of reinforcing steel were used.
- •The tower's New Year's fireworks display is the highest in the Southern Hemisphere, with fireworks launched in 360 degrees from three platforms.
History
The Sky Tower was constructed between 1994 and 1997 as part of the SkyCity casino complex in Auckland.
Initially proposed for a different location, the project was relocated due to viewshaft concerns.
Designed by Gordon Moller and built by Fletcher Construction, the tower was officially opened on 3 August 1997.
It held the title of the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere until 2022.
The tower's design and construction utilized advanced engineering methods, including reinforced concrete for the shaft and steel frameworks for the mast.
Over the years, it has become a symbol of Auckland and a major tourist destination, integrating telecommunications with public observation and entertainment facilities.
Place Guide
Main Observation Deck (Level 51)1997
Located 186 meters above ground, this deck offers 360-degree views of Auckland with glass flooring sections allowing visitors to look directly down to the city streets below.
Orbit 360° Dining (Level 52)1997
New Zealand's only revolving restaurant situated 190 meters above ground, rotating once every hour to provide diners with panoramic views of Auckland's skyline.
The Lookout Observation Deck and SkyWalk (Level 53)1997
This level includes an observation deck, an ice creamery, and the SkyWalk experience, where visitors can walk around the tower's exterior with safety harnesses.
SkyJump (Level 53)1997
A thrilling 192-meter controlled base jump from the observation deck, where jumpers can reach speeds up to 85 km/h, guided by cables to ensure safety.
Sky Deck (Level 60)1997
The highest public observation deck at 220 meters, just below the main antenna, offering views up to 82 kilometers on a clear day.
Contact
Phone: 09 363 6000
