New Zealand Guide
Wellington
The North Island finishes with a flourish at Wellington, New Zealand's capital and its most interesting and exciting city. Wedged between steep hills, the glistening waters of Wellington Harbour (technically Port Nicholson) and the turbulent seas of Cook Strait, Wellington is, with around 400,000 residents, New Zealand's second most populous city. As the principal departure point to the South Island it is sometimes only afforded a fleeting glimpse, but it certainly warrants a stay of a couple of nights, more if you can manage it.
Highlights
1 Te Papa The national museum has become Wellington's premier attraction, with intriguing displays of pre-European Maori culture, and some of the country's finest art.
2 Oriental Parade and Mount Victoria No visit to Wellington is complete without an ice-cream promenade taking in Oriental Parade and the panoramic views from Mount Victoria.
3 Cuba Street People-watching and window shopping along Wellington's "alternative" street gives a taste of the city's divergent lifestyles.
4 The Botanic Gardens Take the cable car up and stroll back down for great views, beautiful roses and the lovely Begonia House.
5 The Parliamentary District Visit the country's seat of power and associated national institutions, including a chance to see the original Treaty of Waitangi.
6 Karori Sanctuary Native birds once again flock around suburban Wellington, aided by the predator-free environment and regenerating native bush at this superb wildlife sanctuary.
7 Matiu/Somes Island Cruise to this wildlife reserve and former quarantine station in the middle of Wellington Harbour.
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