Dine, stay, and celebrate, all in one place. SkyCity’s private dining rooms offer the perfect setting for groups and events, with tailored menus and beverage selections to suit the occasion, all located in the heart of Auckland. Behind Huami’s grand red doors and gold-papered walls is a culinary story that pays tribute to centuries of Chinese culinary tradition, reimagined with the freshness of Aotearoa. At MASU, enjoy the energy of the robata grill that blends warmth with understated elegance, surrounded by textured earthen walls adorned with vintage Japanese Obi kimono prints. The Grill, located on the ground floor at Horizon by SkyCity, is where dry-aged, grassfed New Zealand beef and sustainable, line-caught fish are cooked to perfection over an open flame. At Metita, Chef Michael Meredith shares his Pacific heritage through dishes that are curiously curated and generously shared. And fifty-two floors above it all, a section buy-out at the recently refurbished Orbit 360° Dining offers a rotating panorama found nowhere else in New Zealand.

Each group dining experience is an invitation to gather around a story worth telling, with personalised menus and beverage selections crafted to suit the occasion.

1. Sky Tower

Sky Tower · Corner Victoria and Federal Streets · 10:00–11:00am

Start your day with one of the best family-friendly attractions in Auckland. The Sky Tower offers amazing panoramic views of the city — kids can spot landmarks like the Auckland Harbour Bridge and Rangitoto Island from above. They'll love the Glass Floor section, where you can literally look straight down to the ground from over 190 metres up.

For the thrill-seekers — SkyWalk (ages 10+) is a safe, guided walk around the outside of the tower with incredible views, and SkyJump (ages 10+) is an epic controlled freefall from the top — perfect for the adrenaline junkies in the family.

2. All Blacks Experience and Wētā Workshop Unleashed

Federal Street · 11:00am–1:00pm

Head across Federal Street for two world-class, kid-friendly experiences that you won't find anywhere else in New Zealand.

• All Blacks Experience — New Zealand's ultimate rugby attraction, with immersive tours, haka performances and hands-on kids' activities. Step beyond the sidelines, break a sweat, and truly feel what it means to wear the iconic black jersey.
• Wētā Workshop Unleashed — journey through three jaw-dropping, highly imaginative cinematic worlds created by the legendary Wētā Workshop crew. Jump into intergalactic, fantastical and otherworldly realms and see how wild ideas become epic blockbusters.

Tip — allow around one hour per attraction. Bookings are strongly recommended for both, especially during school holidays and weekends.

3. Family-friendly lunch

SkyCity Auckland · 12:00–1:30pm

After a busy morning, sit down for a family-friendly meal. Three great options at SkyCity, all catering to adults and kids alike:

• Andy's Burgers & Bar — great burgers for adults and a dedicated kids' menu, with orders delivered to your table by robots Buzz and Bella for added entertainment.
• Depot Eatery — casual and relaxed with fresh New Zealand small plates. Kids love the sliders and potato skins, while adults can savour Kiwi classics like oysters and lamb.
• Orbit 360° Dining — Auckland's only revolving restaurant, at the top of the Sky Tower. A genuinely special treat with panoramic views (advance booking recommended; check opening days).

4. Explore SkyCity and the surrounding area

Federal Street precinct · 1:30–2:30pm

Round out the day with a stroll around SkyCity and the Federal Street precinct. Victoria Park is a short walk away — a great spot to let kids burn off energy, with a café nearby for a well-earned ice cream. If the family enjoys browsing, Commercial Bay next to Britomart offers relaxed family-friendly shopping.

Staying overnight? — SkyCity Hotel has a bespoke family suite for two adults and up to four children under 14, and The Grand by SkyCity offers twin rooms with two double beds. Both are steps from everything on this itinerary. Kids' pricing is available for Sky Tower entry and SkyWalk, and both venues are fully stroller and pram accessible.

1. Sunset at the Sky Tower

Sky Tower · Corner Victoria and Federal Streets · 5:00–6:00pm

Begin your evening with breathtaking panoramic views of Auckland as the sun sets. The Sky Tower offers a magical backdrop for romantic photos and quiet moments together. Watching the city lights come alive from 220 metres above ground sets the tone for an intimate evening.

Optional upgrade — book at SkyBar in the Sky Tower for a glass of Champagne while enjoying the view.

2. Pre-dinner drinks on Federal Street

Federal Street · 6:00–7:00pm

Stroll hand-in-hand down Federal Street, where the fairy lights twinkle and the Sky Tower looms above. Early evening is the best time to soak up the romantic vibe before dinner.

• Huami Bar — sip on a signature cocktail or a glass of fine wine in a chic setting.
• MASU Bar — try a Japanese-inspired cocktail for something unique.

Tip — early evening is the best time to visit: quieter and more atmospheric than weekends.

3. Award-winning dinner

Federal Street · The Grand by SkyCity · 7:00–9:30pm

Indulge in world-class cuisine from some of New Zealand's most celebrated chefs. Each restaurant offers something distinctly different:

• Metita, by Michael Meredith — Pacific-inspired fine dining with bold, creative flavours. Signature dish: the seasonal tasting menu, for a culinary journey.
• MASU by Nic Watt — elegant Japanese dining with a focus on sharing plates. Signature dish: the soft shell crab slider or the sashimi platter.

Tip — book in advance to avoid disappointment. These are among Auckland's most popular restaurants and tables fill quickly, especially Thursday to Saturday.

4. Nightcap and sweet treats

Federal Street · Sky Tower · 9:30–10:00pm

End the evening on a high — literally. Head up to SkyBar in the Sky Tower for a final drink with panoramic views of the city lights across the harbour. Alternatively, stay on Federal Street for a dessert crawl — Federal Delicatessen's dessert trio or MASU's delicate Japanese sweets are both exceptional ways to finish.

Day one: arrival and indulgence

Check-in — The Grand by SkyCity, Auckland's premier five-star hotel. Book a Grand Deluxe room or suite for ultimate comfort, and ask for a room with Sky Tower views for that wow factor.

1. Afternoon arrival and spa

East Day Spa · The Grand by SkyCity

Start your escape at East Day Spa with a rejuvenating winter treatment. Warm, relaxing, and the perfect way to unwind before exploring.

Recommended — the Hot Stone Massage or the Winter Glow Facial.

2. Sky Tower sunset experience

Sky Tower · Corner Victoria and Federal Streets · 45 minutes

Head up the Sky Tower for panoramic views as the city lights up — one of Auckland's most breathtaking moments, day or night.

Optional — add a stop at SkyBar for a Champagne Experience for a romantic touch.

3. Pre-dinner drinks

Huami Bar or MASU Bar · Federal Street

Settle in for cocktails and small bites at Huami or MASU as the evening comes alive. Enjoy the fairy lights on Federal Street for a cosy winter vibe.

4. Award-winning dinner

Federal Street · Your choice of SkyCity's finest

Choose from SkyCity's best restaurants:

• MASU by Nic Watt — elegant Japanese dining.
• Metita — Pacific-inspired fine dining.

Tip — book a chef's tasting menu for a full culinary journey.

5. Nightcap and dessert crawl

MASU or SkyBar · Federal Street

Try desserts at MASU, or head back up to SkyBar for a sweet treat with a view. The perfect end to a magnificent first day.

Day two: attractions and adventure

Breakfast — Gusto at the Grand, for an Italian-inspired breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee. The perfect fuel for a big day.

1. Morning attractions

Federal Street · Allow 1.5–2 hours

Dive into three world-class experiences all within easy reach:

• Wētā Workshop Unleashed — movie magic and creative wizardry.
• All Blacks Experience — interactive rugby culture and iconic haka moments.
• Sky Tower Glass Floor challenge — fun photo moments above the city.

Tip — pre-book tickets for smooth, seamless entry.

2. Lunch

Federal Street · Casual and relaxed

Refuel with some of Auckland's favourite casual options:

• Depot Eatery — casual Kiwi classics done brilliantly.
• Andy's Burgers & Bar — fun, relaxed vibe with robot servers.

3. Afternoon leisure

Federal Street and surrounds

Wind down with a stroll along Federal Street, exploring boutique shopping and coffee stops in the precinct.

Optional — head to Victoria Park for a quick walk if the weather permits.

4. Departure, or one last treatment

East Day Spa · The Grand by SkyCity

Late checkout is available if you want to linger. Or extend the indulgence with one final East Day Spa treatment before heading home refreshed and recharged.

All experiences are within or moments from SkyCity — no transport needed. Reserve spa, dining and attractions in advance for a seamless escape, and ask about Stay & Play packages combining hotel, dining and attractions.

1. Britomart and Commercial Bay

Britomart Square · 4:00pm

Start your walk at Britomart Square, one of Auckland's most vibrant precincts. Explore the boutiques, laneways and café culture before making your way to the waterfront. Commercial Bay next door is worth a browse if you're in the mood for shopping.

2. Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter

Viaduct Basin · 4:30pm

Walk the waterfront west past the Viaduct Basin towards Wynyard Quarter. Relax by the water, watch the superyachts come and go, people-watch from a harbourside café, or grab an ice cream and soak up the views across the Waitematā.

3. Walk up to the Sky Tower

Fanshawe → Hobson → Victoria Street West · 4:30–5:15pm

Head inland from Wynyard Quarter along Fanshawe Street, then up Hobson and Victoria Street West. You'll spot the Sky Tower ahead as you climb — aim for SkyCity Auckland at the corner of Victoria and Federal Streets.

4. Sky Tower experience

Sky Tower · Corner Victoria and Federal Streets · 5:15–6:15pm

Take in Auckland from one of the Sky Tower's three observation decks. If you started the walk later in the afternoon, stay for sunset — the views of Rangitoto Island and the harbour lights coming on across the city are genuinely spectacular.

Tip — book your Sky Tower tickets online in advance to skip the queue, especially in summer.

5. Dinner on Federal Street

SkyCity Auckland · Federal Street · 6:30–7:30pm

Finish the evening at one of SkyCity's Federal Street restaurants, right below the Sky Tower. Three great options depending on your mood:

• MASU by Nic Watt — upscale modern Japanese, consistently top-rated in New Zealand.
• Depot Eatery — casual, fresh Kiwi small plates by celebrity chef Al Brown.
• Federal Delicatessen — New York-style diner, fun and informal with great cocktails.

1. Sky Tower views

Sky Tower · Corner Victoria and Federal Streets · 45 minutes

Kick off with Auckland's most iconic landmark. The Sky Tower offers panoramic views of the city and harbour — perfect for quick photos and a sense of place.

Optional — add a glass of bubbles at SkyBar or The Lookout for a celebratory touch.

2. Wētā Workshop Unleashed

Federal Street · 45 minutes

Step into the world of movie magic with Wētā Workshop Unleashed. Explore fantastical film sets and learn how Kiwi creativity shapes global blockbusters. It's a cultural icon and a fun, hands-on way to connect with New Zealand's renowned film industry.

Tip — pre-book tickets for smooth entry.

3. All Blacks Experience

Federal Street · 45 minutes

Dive into New Zealand's rugby culture at the All Blacks Experience, with interactive exhibits and haka moments. The All Blacks are more than a team — they're a cultural icon. This hands-on experience lets you feel what it means to wear the iconic black jersey.

Tip — pre-book tickets for smooth entry.

4. Transition to dinner

Federal Street

Stroll Federal Street under fairy lights, or enjoy a quick drink at Huami Bar or MASU Bar before heading to your conference dinner venue.

Add-on — if dinner is at Orbit 360° Dining, you'll enjoy the ultimate Sky Tower finale.

All experiences are within SkyCity, so no transport is needed. Works well for small or large groups with pre-booked slots.

1. Coffee break and light snack

Depot · 90 Federal Street, Auckland Central

Just one street over from the NZICC, Depot offers Auckland's best coffee and a relaxed environment for decompressing after a conference. The all-day menu features casual, fresh Kiwi small plates by celebrity chef Al Brown — perfect for a quick bite between sessions.

2. Post-conference lunch

MASU by Nic Watt · 90 Federal Street, Auckland Central

The cherry blossoms welcome you from Federal Street. MASU's bespoke lunch menu includes maki rolls, donburi and sashimi — ideal for impressing clients in an elegant yet relaxed setting.

Alternative — Federal Delicatessen, for fantastic New York-style sandwiches and great coffee, right next door on Federal Street.

3. Take a walk

Victoria Park or Wynyard Quarter

After sitting through a conference, a walk in Victoria Park (just 10 minutes away) is a refreshing way to stretch your legs and clear your head. Alternatively, stroll through Wynyard Quarter for fantastic waterfront views of the Waitematā Harbour.

4. Post-conference drinks and networking

Onyx bar · Horizon by SkyCity, Hobson Street, Auckland Central

Located directly across the laneway from the NZICC, Onyx is a great spot for a wind-down drink that's uniquely New Zealand in flavour. All cocktails have a Kiwi take on the classics — excellent for relaxed business discussions in a premium setting.

Alternative — SkyBar in the Sky Tower offers elegant cocktails with spectacular panoramic views of the city and harbour.

5. Explore local attractions

Sky Tower · Corner Victoria and Federal Streets, Auckland Central

Take a break and visit the Sky Tower for panoramic views of Auckland — only a short walk from the NZICC. The views across the Waitematā Harbour and Hauraki Gulf are a genuine conversation starter for visiting guests.

Alternative — Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is nearby for a cultural visit between meetings.

6. Dinner

Metita · The Grand by SkyCity, 90 Federal Street, Auckland Central

The frequently awarded Metita, named after Chef Michael Meredith's mother, is a fresh and elegant exploration of Pacific cuisine. Great for sharing dishes as a group or dining solo after a long conference day.

Alternative — MASU by Nic Watt, for a more laid-back yet contemporary dinner. Ask to be seated at the Robata Grill for a more intimate experience.

1. Arrival and city orientation

SkyBar · Sky Tower · Corner Victoria and Federal Streets

After checking in to Horizon by SkyCity, take a short stroll to the Sky Tower and head up to SkyBar — an elegant lounge in the clouds, perfect for a first look at Auckland. Enjoy a welcome drink while taking in panoramic harbour and city views, ideal for orienting yourself before the conference begins.

2. Breakfast before the conference

Horizon buffet breakfast · Horizon by SkyCity

Start your day with a nourishing breakfast at Horizon's signature buffet. From barista coffee to fresh pastries, hot dishes and local produce, it's the ideal way to fuel up before heading to the NZICC.

3. Conference — New Zealand International Convention Centre

NZICC · 88 Federal Street · All day

Located right next door to Horizon by SkyCity, the NZICC offers a seamless transition into your conference programme. Simply walk across the laneway to arrive at sessions, workshops or keynote events.

4. Quick lunch break

The Federal Delicatessen · Federal Street · 45 minutes

During a midday break, head to Fed Deli — just steps away on Federal Street. Expect outstanding New York–style deli classics: hot sandwiches, matzo ball soup and great coffee, all delivered with warm Kiwi service. Fast, flavourful, and perfectly timed before the afternoon agenda.

5. Return to conference — afternoon sessions

NZICC · 88 Federal Street

Walk directly back to the NZICC to continue with your afternoon programme. Everything is within easy reach — no transport required.

6. Post-conference drinks and networking

Onyx bar · Horizon by SkyCity

After a full day, take a moment to unwind at Onyx, Horizon's sophisticated lobby bar. Perfectly located right outside the main entrance to the convention centre — ideal for a quiet drink or relaxed networking. Try a uniquely New Zealand twist on a classic cocktail.

Alternative — SkyBar at the Sky Tower, for a high-altitude drink with dazzling city views, whether you missed it earlier or want to experience it again.

7. Dinner to complete the evening

Metita · The Grand by SkyCity

Stroll to Metita, where Chef Michael Meredith presents elevated modern Pacific cuisine. Expect vibrant flavours, bold creativity and beautifully plated dishes — a memorable way to celebrate the end of the conference day.

Tip — book in advance. Metita is a popular reservation, especially on conference nights.

8. Short walk back to the hotel

Horizon by SkyCity · 5 minutes

After dinner, enjoy a gentle stroll in the fresh air back to Horizon by SkyCity for a restful night's sleep. Everything is just moments away in the SkyCity precinct.

Wet weather — take the SkyBridge, an indoor covered walkway connecting the precinct, and stay warm and dry all the way back.

All experiences are within or moments from SkyCity — no transport needed. Reserve spa, dining and attractions in advance for a seamless stay.

1. Arrival

Horizon by SkyCity · Hobson Street, Auckland Central

Arrive in style through Horizon's private porte cochère, where concierge staff are on hand to greet you and assist with luggage — a smooth, unhurried start to your stay without the fuss of a busy hotel forecourt.

2. Your Room

Urban Room · Horizon by SkyCity

Horizon's Urban rooms are unique, compact spaces designed for travellers who appreciate great comfort without needing lots of room. Corridors are single-loaded, meaning less foot traffic passing your door, and reception is staffed 24/7 for peace of mind — with key entry only for after-hours access to the hotel. It all adds up to a stay that feels considered, private and secure.

3. Dinner for One

The Grill · SkyCity Auckland

Settle in for a properly good New Zealand steak, with sides sized for one — not the "sharing plates" you'll find elsewhere. The Grill is a great spot to enjoy an unhurried dinner solo, with the quality of the room matching the quality of the beef.

4. Breakfast

Hotel restaurant, Horizon by SkyCity

Start the day easily with breakfast at the hotel restaurant, just steps from your room.

Alternative: Head to Eighty Fed, just over on Federal Street, and take a seat upstairs for a quieter breakfast away from the morning bustle — ideal if you'd rather ease into the day with a bit of peace and quiet.

5. An Evening Drink

Onyx Bar

Onyx Bar is well-lit and easy to feel comfortable in alone, with a strong cocktail list and seating arranged so you can settle in without feeling "on show." A relaxed way to close out the evening before heading back up to your room.

1. Start on Federal Street

Federal Street · SkyCity Auckland

Federal Street is where Auckland's best chefs have chosen to set up shop — Al Brown with Depot and Federal Delicatessen, MASU by Nic Watt, and Metita by Michael Meredith. The Sky Tower commands the air space above you as you walk the street, and early evening the fairy lights give the whole precinct a warm, inviting glow.

Best time to visit — early evening, mid-to-late week. Quieter than weekends, atmospheric lighting, and you're more likely to snag a table without advance booking (though we always recommend reserving ahead for fine dining).

2. The hit list — best snacks and starters

Federal Street restaurants

If you're doing a Federal Street food crawl, these are the dishes you shouldn't leave without trying:

• Huami — Tabasco prawns
• Depot — fish sliders
• MASU by Nic Watt — soft shell crab slider
• The Grill — pork croquette

3. Dinner — pick your chef

Federal Street · The Grand by SkyCity

Each of Federal Street's headline restaurants offers something distinctly different. Choose based on your mood:

• Metita, by Michael Meredith — a fresh and elegant exploration of Pacific cuisine from one of New Zealand's most awarded chefs. Named after the chef's mother, the menu is personal, creative and best enjoyed as a shared experience.
• MASU by Nic Watt — upscale modern Japanese with a focus on sharing plates, a live Robata grill and an outstanding sake list. Ask to be seated at the Robata Grill for a more intimate, theatrical experience.
• Depot, by Al Brown — if you prefer something more relaxed, Depot's casual all-day menu of fresh Kiwi small plates is consistently excellent and great for groups.

Tip — book in advance for Metita and MASU. These are among Auckland's most popular restaurants and tables fill quickly, especially Thursday to Saturday.

4. Nightcap and sweet treats

Federal Street · Sky Tower

End the evening on a high — literally. Head up to SkyBar in the Sky Tower for a final drink with panoramic views of the city lights across the harbour. Alternatively, stay on Federal Street for a dessert crawl — Federal Delicatessen's dessert trio or MASU's delicate Japanese sweets are both exceptional ways to finish.