By: Sally
Wellington really is a cool little city (region population 500,000-ish), perched on a harbour at the tip of the North Island. (Plus, I got engaged there!) In fact, I reckon I’m due for another visit soon.
Must do: Wellington Waterfront
The revived waterfront is one of the best things about central Auckland these days … but it’s still got a way to go. Wellington’s waterfront, though hits all the right notes – effortlessly. Wander down past the skate park, sculptures and artwork, and of course, the many awesome museums and galleries.
By: Graeme Churchard
Must do: Te Papa Museum
Te Papa, our national museum, will keep you engrossed for hours. Get stuck into our cultural and natural history; arts and science; and any of the special exhibitions on display at any one time. Did I mention that it’s free?
By: Samuel Mann
Must do: Cuba St
Cuba St is synonymous with bohemian cool – bursting with great eateries and bars, vintage boutiques and street performers. It’s a registered historic area, and you have to stop to watch the most colourful feature on the street: the landmark bucket fountain in Cuba Mall. Get close enough and you might just get splashed on.
Must do: Wellington Cable Car
Who can resist a ride up a hill in a historic cable car? This one is over a century old and rides are $4 one way or $7 return. Starting from downtown Lambton Quay and ascending to Kelburn and the Botanic Garden. At the top you’ll find the free Cable Car Museum as well as the Carter Observatory and Planetarium – and, obviously, some awesome views over the city.
By: Brett Taylor
Still on my bucket list
There’s a couple of Wellington spots I’m keen to check out! One is Zealandia, a wildlife-eco sanctuary not far from the city. And, no surprise, the other is the renowned Weta Cave, for a slice of movie magic.
Where to stay in Wellington
There’s a huge range of interesting places to stay in Wellington. One new option is the Setup Hotel on Manners St, with serviced apartments handy to the inner city hotspots. If you’re heading down there between 15 November 2014 to 31 January 2015, book your stay anytime before 1 January and use the promo code trysetupmanners for 10% off!
I love your photos of Wellington! Mainly because there’s blue sky, and my single afternoon experience of Wellington was foggy and damp. So I didn’t really get to do much except the museum and a few drinks in the evening. I also have really bad associations with Wellington, not because of the place itself, but because I received some really bad news while I was there. I’d love to go back to Wellington someday, and experience the sunnier side of it. 🙂
http://www.secondhandhedgehog.com/2014/02/my-worst-night-away-from-home.html
28 years in New Zealand and I still haven’t made it to Wellington yet. Everyone I meet (barring one, but he’s a bit off) raves about Wellington. What is it that makes it so cool? Need to get my A into G and visit. Wish the ferry was cheaper. 🙂
I write about Wellington often at work, it seems like a pretty amazing city. I don’t see myself visiting NZ anytime soon (unfortunately) but i’d love to check out Wellington one day.
I have heard some good stories about Welllington! If only it wasn’t soooo far away 😉
Found you through #SundayTraveler
It looks beautiful! One of my friends lives there, must visit one day…
Yay! You’ve been back traveling and exlporing – looks like a great spot to visit.