Wellington

For lovers of sophistication as well as the exciting buzz of art and culture, Wellington is New Zealand’s must-see destination.

This harbour-side jewel is situated on the tip of the North Island beside Cooks Strait, and has adopted the nickname of ‘Windy Wellington’ for the sea breezes that whip across the city. With a population of approximately 466 575, Wellington is New Zealand’s second largest city (Auckland is the largest) and the country’s centre for arts, entertainment and culture.

An exploration through the compact inner city is easily achievable on foot. Wellington has a sophisticated blend of classic and contemporary architecture with some of New Zealand’s most striking modern and heritage buildings. From the young and funky market style of Cuba Street to the stylish boutiques of Lambton Quay, there are plenty of unique places to shop or relax and enjoy a coffee.  

The city frames Wellington harbour and, with the strong coastal breezes, is a perfect location for sailing and yachting. The waterfront is also home to the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongawara, boasting an impressive 5-floors of exhibitions and local and international artefacts. This museum is important to the cultural preservation of New Zealand’s past and celebration of New Zealand’s innovative present and future.
 
A cable-car ride up to the Botanical Gardens overlooking the city is a great way to take in views of the entire harbour across to the Hutt Valley. This peaceful place can be enjoyed on the many guided pathways and tours, and is also home to the fascinating Cable-Car Museum and the Carter Observatory and Planetarium.

Wellington’s stunning waterfront esplanade is best enjoyed at a casual pace - a meal in one of the many cafes and restaurants is a particularly good way to take in the harbour views. Another popular eating area is Courtenay Place, the many cafes and restaurants offering an array of both international and local cuisine to suit any taste or budget.    

There is something to see or do in Wellington virtually every day of the week, with many of New Zealand’s main theatre companies, music and art institutions based here. Some Wellington-based institutes that present high quality live performances, exhibitions, tours and events on a regular basis include - The Royal New Zealand Ballet, the NBR New Zealand Opera, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, the Te Whaea National Dance and Drama centre, the National Film Archives and Gallery and the New Zealand Portrait Gallery. Many of New Zealand’s most famous arts professionals have their roots in this city, for example director Peter Jackson, actress Anna Paquin and flight of the concords duo Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie.