The majority of people are familiar with Wellington as New Zealand’s capital. However, there are a ton of good reasons why everyone should go to this cool place. In fact, to get things started, here are 8 of them.
1. The entrance to several of New Zealand’s major attractions is in Wellington
Geographically, Wellington is right where everything is happening. The South Island is only accessible by ferry, and great day-trip destinations include Picton and the Queen Charlotte Sound.
Additionally, it’s simple to reach the Rimutaka Ranges, a well-liked location for biking and trekking. Just one hour’s drive separates Wellington and Martinborough, which is a stop along the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail.
2. There are many galleries and museums
Wellington punches far beyond its weight when it comes to all things historical and cultural, from classic favorites like Te Papa and the City Gallery Wellington to less well-known gems like the National Tattoo Museum of New Zealand.
The Wellington Museum is only a short stroll from Te Papa, and the Botanic Gardens can serve as your entryway to Space Place at the Carter Observatory. They are all pretty close to one another as well.
3. Wellington has a fantastic food scene
The city holds the Wellington On A Plate festival each winter, a celebration of the best in regional cuisine. Additionally, the city is home to some of New Zealand’s top coffee roasters, brunch cafes, and outdoor dining enterprises. Cuba Street is one of the unique locations that draw aspiring foodies.
4. There are numerous historical sites to explore
The famous parliamentary structure of New Zealand, known as The Beehive, is located in the very center of the city. The southern suburb of Newton is home to Government House, where the Governor-General (the Queen’s representative) resides.
The National War Memorial, Wrights Hill Fortress, Katherine Mansfield House, and the New Zealand National Library are among further noteworthy sites and monuments.
5. The natural world is never far away
In all honesty, Wellington doesn’t have the air of a large metropolis. Everything is always so accessible, and a lot of it is within walking distance, including its parks and gardens.
The Botanic Garden is usually a notable feature, both for its beauty and for being in such an accessible, central location. Otari-Bush Wilton’s and Kaitoke Regional Park are fantastic locations for a picnic if you wish to travel a bit further.
6. It’s also simple to catch a look at the local fauna
The best places in the area to learn about native New Zealand species are Zealandia and the Wellington Zoo. Visitors to Zealandia can easily walk there from the Cable Car station or board a free shuttle that runs every hour starting at 9:30 am from the Wellington city i-Site. It takes 10 minutes to get to Newton by automobile or very quickly by bus if you’re going to Wellington Zoo.
7. When it’s sunny and light outside, the seaside views are stunning
On a good day, the locals are adamant that Wellington is unbeatable. And it’s accurate. Wellington’s winter weather may be fairly unpredictable and gloomy, so when the summer sun shines brightly, it leaves a lasting impression.
There’s no reason not to come outside when the weather is pleasant and stable, whether you’re enjoying a fish and chips lunch by Oriental Bay, taking in the coastline views at Island Bay or surfing like crazy in Lyall Bay.
8. Panoramas that are picture-perfect are always expected
When it comes to panoramic locations, Wellingtonians and visitors are spoiled for choice. One of the best places to get a full 360-degree perspective of the city is Mount Victoria. Te Ahumarangi Hill Lookout, Mount Kauakau, and the Massey Memorial are among the more lovely locations that offer an elevated view of the capital.
