Wellington is a picturesque harbour city that is regarded as the arts and culture capital of New Zealand. It sits on the southern tip of the North Island and is known for its constant breezes. Though not a large city, it has ample to see and do. It has almost the same number of restaurants per capita as New York City, so you can be assured that you will eat and drink very well. Dine on Indian, Malaysian, Turkish, Japanese, or tradition fare and sip coffee that rivals the very best that’s available in Europe. Take a food tour to sample wine, chocolate, desserts and gourmet creations.
Cultural attractions abound. Children and adults love Te Papa, the national museum, for its wealth of interactive exhibits and diverse subject matter, from Impressionist painters to colossal squid to space explorations. Meanwhile, the City Gallery showcases provocative and cutting-edge art. Book tickets to a play performed at one of the classic theatres in the city centre. The arts scene flourishes here so you can catch both well-known plays and new arrivals. Festivals focused on film, comedy, dance and theatre attract worldwide attention and talent.
The lovely setting of Wellington make outdoor pursuits popular among locals and visitors. Near Island Bay, you can walk along a dramatic coastline, punctuated by red rocks, then farther along, a large seal colony. The Botanic Garden is perfect for picnics, or a late afternoon stroll. More encounters with nature are offer at the Karori Wildlife Sanctuary, where endangered native species are protected. You may also spend the day at the beach, though bring a jumper since the winds can drop temperatures quickly.
Walk along Elmscourt, an apartment block that features outstanding examples of Art Deco architecture.
Mount Victoria provides a 360 degree view of the harbour and its surrounding. Have your camera ready!
Embrace the city’s nightlife and pub hop along Courtenay Place where drinks are inexpensive and cover charges are non-existent.