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Wellington

Planning a holiday to Wellington? No trip is complete without soaking up the culture of New Zealand's capital city. Politicians and business suits walk the streets brushing shoulders with jean-clad students; sophisticated city scapes contrast with outlying wine growing regions.

Wellington is surrounded by glistening waves and forest draped ranges, with the Tasman Sea to the west, the Cook Strait to the south and the Tararua Ranges to the north. Past the hills to the East, the wine country and wild coastline of the Wairarapa region slows the city slicker pace down to a lazy crawl. Restricted by the hills, the centre of the city is only 2 kilometres wide, and the glorious harbour and untouched wilderness is a stunning combination.

Wooden Victorian and Edwardian houses nestle amongst the sprawling hills and the thriving waterfront sports fine sandy beaches, marinas and restored warehouses. A stroll along Oriental Parade is simply breath taking, and with a creamy New Zealand ice-cream in hand, even better.

For fabulous views over the city head up to Mount Victoria or ride up the cable car and stroll down through the Botanical Gardens. The parliament buildings are located in the centre of town. Round in shape and nicknamed The Beehive, one can only surmise that the architect was breakfasting on toast and honey when inspiration struck; like most politicians, it’s not aged particularly well.

The National Archives (located in the parliamentary district) displays the original Treat of Waitangi, the contentious agreement between the Maori and the European settlers. As well as being the political capital, Wellington is without a doubt the cultural capital of New Zealand. A true café society, Wellington is choc-a-bloc full of sophisticated cafes, pumping bars (coffee and beer are particular Wellington specialties), live music, theatres, art galleries and museums. Located on the spectacular waterfront is New Zealand’s national museum, Te Papa, an interactive museum considered one of the top cultural attractions in the country. Filled with pre-European Maori culture, as well as a virtual bungy jump, it’s at the top of the must-see list.

Shopping and fashion houses are world-class and you’ll discover one thrilling boutique shop after another. The alternative Cuba Street is a must for shopping and people watching alike. Wellington also hosts multitudes of events, and you can attend concerts, festivals and gallery openings all year round.

Wellington is a great base from which to explore the entire region and its coastal towns and beaches. Outdoor lovers flock to Hutt Valley where they can hike, jog, mountain bike, horse trek or play a round of golf. The rugged coastline of Porirua provides a great location for windsurfers, scuba divers and sailors alike. In 40 minutes you can be at The Kapiti Coast sampling the local cheeses, cakes and other gourmet specialties.

Wine lovers will find Wellington a great base from which to explore neighbouring wine regions. If you’re particularly thirsty, the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail is 380 kilometres long, and takes you through the regions of Hawke's Bay, Tararua, Wairarapa (Martinborough), Wellington and Marlborough. Jam packed with wildlife, islands, parks and beaches, and all minutes from the city centre, Wellington is a hive of activity and one buzzing city you won’t want to miss.

What's on in Wellington?

Wellington Attractions

Visit	Botanic Gardens Features 25 hectares of unique landscape, protected native forest, conifers, specialised plant collections, colourful floral displays, and views over Wellington city.
Visit	Karori Wildlife Sanctuary Offers a safe haven for endangered native birds & wildlife in central Wellington. A great place to learn about NZ's unique wildlife.
Visit	St James Theatre and Opera House Considered one of the finest lyric theatres in Australasia and the permanent home to The Royal New Zealand Ballet.
Visit	Te Papa Museum New Zealand's national museum where you can explore the amazing stories of this country and the people who live here.
Visit	Wellington City Art Gallery A 'dynamic cultural presence' in Wellington offering a world-class programme of exhibitions and arts-related projects.
Visit	Welllington Sightseeing Tour Offers half or full day tours of Wellington where you can see the City's Geographical, Cultural and Architectural highlights / treasures.

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