Wellington

The nation’s capital resides among green hills on a stunning deepwater harbour on the windswept edge of Cook Strait.

The harbour-side site is so compact and intimate that Wellington could well be described as a ‘village with skyscrapers’. Most attractions are within strolling distance – and these are many and varied. The city is packed with fine architecture, national treasures, shopping precincts, restaurants, theatres, scenic walks and superb native flora and fauna sanctuaries.

Wellington is the major transport hub linking the North and South Islands. It is also recognised as our leading centre for performing arts, culture and entertainment. Within an hour’s drive of the city is a staggering variety of eco-tourism and cultural experiences as indicated below:-

Wake up to Wellington with a coffee break
Experience the exuberant cafe society with a leisurely breakfast in a downtown cafe.

Stroll down to the esplanade via the City-to-Sea Bridge
The scenic beauty of Wellington harbour can be enjoyed on walkways from Queens Wharf to Oriental Bay.

Visit the Museum of City and Sea on Queens Wharf
Wellington’s pioneer heroes and rogues are all on display under one roof.

Allow ample time to explore the wonders of Te Papa (Our Place) Museum
Fine exhibits tell the stories of our land, people and culture in the past, present and future. Don’t miss the interactive displays

Collect a Wellington Fashion Map from a Downtown Shop
Follow the trail through department stores and boutiques along Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Cuba Street and Courtenay Place.

Pick up a Wellington Arts Map from any art gallery
Do the rounds of the many diverse art and craft outlets in the city.

Catch a live show at a professional theatre
Wellington’s acting fraternity is a dedicated group – you are bound to enjoy yourself.

Join in the party at Courtenay Place entertainment precinct
Nightlife options include lively cafes, funky bars, pulsing nightclubs and top quality restaurants.

Hop on the famous Cable Car to Kelburn
Enjoy fabulous views of the city and take a walk through the Botanic Gardens, Rose Gardens and Begonia House.

Take a free tour of Parliament Buildings
Tours run on the hour and include the distinctive Beehive building.

Visit old St Paul’s Church in Mulgrave Street
This English Gothic style church provides a peaceful haven for visitors.

Wander through the Thorndon historic precinct
The orderly rows of Victorian houses include the home of our greatest short-story writer, Katherine Mansfield.

Drive to the summit of Mt Victoria
See splendid city and harbour views from this lofty lookout.

Drive through Brooklyn and Ohiro Valley to the excellent Marine Drive
View Cook Strait from the Brooklyn high-tech wind turbine and continue on to the Ohiro Bay/Red Rocks seal colony and Marine Drive.

Visit the ‘must see’ Karori Wildlife Sanctuary and Otari Native gardens
Enjoy the chorus of native birds and the fascinating array of New Zealand plants.

Grab the harbour ferry to Soames Island or Days Bay
Walk around Soames Island Wildlife Reserve or continue on to Days Bay and take the walk to Butterfly Creek.

Drive up to Mana and the Kapiti Coast
Shop in the Paraparaumu Mall, visit the beaches and see the outstanding Southward Vintage Car Museum.

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