Wellington - Discovering New Zealand

Travelling to Wellington

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Wellington, a pretty good destination in New Zealand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Wellington and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Wellington, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through New Zealand, here's everything to know about Wellington for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Wellington

Wellington is the capital city of New Zealand and located on the southern end of the country's North Island. It is the second most populous urban area in the country after Auckland, and home to over 200,000 people. Wellington is known for its vibrant culture, cool climate, and stunning natural surroundings. It is also the political center of New Zealand, and houses the country's parliament, government offices, and other important institutions. The city is surrounded by mountains and water, offering excellent opportunities for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

What to visit in Wellington

Certainly, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Wellington, New Zealand: 1. Te Papa Museum - Te Papa is New Zealand's national museum and a great place to explore the country's fascinating history, art, and culture. The museum has six main areas that cover everything from the natural environment to Maori culture and contemporary art.
2. Zealandia Sanctuary - Located just 10 minutes from the city center, Zealandia is a unique ecological restoration project that aims to restore Wellington's native flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the sanctuary's walking tracks and spot rare birds like the tuatara and kaka.
3. Wellington Cable Car - Hop on the cable car for a scenic ride up to the Botanic Garden and enjoy stunning views of Wellington city. At the top, you can explore the gardens, visit the Carter Observatory, or grab a coffee at the cafe.
4. Weta Cave - Weta Workshop is a creative studio behind the special effects and props in some of the biggest blockbuster movies, such as Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Avatar, and more. The Weta Cave is a mini-museum showcasing these works of art.
5. Mount Victoria Lookout - For panoramic views of Wellington city and harbor, head to the top of Mount Victoria. There are walking tracks, picnic spots, and lookout points for great photo opportunities.
6. Oriental Bay - This beautiful beach is just a short walk from the city center and a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the waterfront cafes and restaurants.
7. Cuba Street - This vibrant pedestrian street is a hub of trendy cafes, boutique shops, street performers, and live music venues. It's a great spot to soak up Wellington's lively atmosphere and enjoy some of the best food and drink the city has to offer. These are just a few of the many attractions that Wellington has to offer, and each one provides a unique experience for visitors.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in New Zealand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Wellington.

When to go on holiday to Wellington

The best time to go on a holiday to Wellington, New Zealand is during the summer months of December to February. During this time, the weather is usually pleasant with average temperatures ranging from 17 to 22°C. It's a perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities, festivals, and events in the city. However, it is also the busiest time of the year, and you may expect larger crowds and higher prices on flights and accommodation. If you prefer fewer crowds and don't mind cooler temperatures, you can plan your trip during the shoulder seasons of spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May).

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Wellington

There are several ways to get to Wellington in New Zealand, depending on where you are coming from: 1. By air: Wellington International Airport is the main gateway to the city, which is served by both domestic and international flights from major airlines such as Air New Zealand, Jetstar, and Qantas.
2. By ferry: Wellington is also accessible by ferry from the South Island of New Zealand. The Interislander and Bluebridge ferry operators offer regular services between Wellington and Picton in the South Island.
3. By car: You can also drive to Wellington via the North Island's main highways, which connect Wellington with major cities like Auckland and Napier.
4. By train: The Northern Explorer train takes you from Auckland to Wellington, or you can also opt for the Coastal Pacific train from Picton to Christchurch, which stops in Wellington along the way.
Overall, there are plenty of options to choose from depending on your location and preference.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Wellington, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Wellington

Sure, here are some typical foods of Wellington, New Zealand with a short description: 1. Paua: a type of sea snail that is a popular seafood delicacy in Wellington. It is often served in fritters or as a steak.
2. Whitebait fritters: This dish consists of small, translucent fish, usually caught off the Wellington coast. The fish are cooked up into fritters which are then served as a tasty snack.
3. Kiwi Burger: This is a burger made with locally raised beef, accompanied by beetroot, fried egg, cheese, and ketchup. It is a Wellington specialty, and is a must-try for any burger lover.
4. Hokey Pokey ice cream: This is a favorite New Zealand ice cream made with vanilla and honeycomb toffee pieces. It is a Wellington favorite and is usually enjoyed by locals and tourists alike! 5. L&P soft drink: This is a popular New Zealand soft drink that is known for its sweet, lemony taste. It's often paired with meals, and is particularly refreshing on hot summer days.
6. Kaimoana (seafood chowder): This is a traditional Maori seafood stew that is made with fresh seafood like mussels, clams, and prawns. It's a hearty and delicious meal that is perfect for warming you up on a cold, winter day.
These are just a few of the typical foods you'll find in Wellington, but there are plenty more to explore as well!
You can find general info about typical foods in New Zealand here.

Is Wellington an expensive destination for tourists?

Overall, Wellington can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists, particularly when compared to some other destinations in New Zealand. Prices for accommodation, food and drink, transportation, and activities can be higher in Wellington compared to some other areas of the country. However, there are still affordable options available, such as budget accommodations and free or low-cost activities. It ultimately depends on your budget and travel preferences, but it's always a good idea to research and compare prices before booking anything.

Where to find accomodation in Wellington

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Wellington, New Zealand are: 1. Wellington CBD: This area is perfect for those who want to be close to the city's main attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options.
2. Mount Victoria: This area is known for its scenic views, outdoor activities, and proximity to the city center.
3. Oriental Bay: This area offers beautiful waterfront views, beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere.
4. Te Aro: This hip and trendy neighborhood offers a vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions, and excellent dining options.
5. Thorndon: This historic neighborhood is close to the city's government buildings, museums, and galleries.
You can check hotel prices at Wellington here:
Booking.com

Is Wellington a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Wellington is considered a safe place for tourists. Overall, New Zealand has a low crime rate compared to many other countries, and Wellington is no exception. However, like any other city, it's important to exercise common sense safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, keeping your valuables secure, and not walking alone late at night in unlit areas. The New Zealand tourism industry has a strong commitment to visitor safety, and you're likely to see safety information and advice prominently displayed in many places.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in New Zealand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Wellington.

What type of travelers will enjoy Wellington the most?

Wellington, New Zealand is a destination that offers something for just about everyone. Here's a breakdown of the types of travelers that will enjoy the most: - Couples: Wellington is a romantic destination with plenty of opportunities for couples to explore together. They can take a walk along the waterfront, watch the sunset from Mount Victoria, visit museums, or indulge in some delicious food and wine.
- Young people looking for fun: Wellington is known for its vibrant nightlife, with lots of bars, clubs, and live music venues. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and water sports.
- Families: Wellington is a family-friendly destination with lots of attractions that kids will love, such as the Wellington Zoo, Te Papa Museum, and the Space Place Observatory. There are also plenty of parks and playgrounds where kids can play.
Overall, Wellington is a great destination for all types of travelers. It offers a little bit of everything, whether you're looking for romance, adventure, or family fun.

How to get around Wellington

In Wellington, there are several transportation options to move around the city, including buses, trains, taxis, and rental cars. Wellington has an extensive public transportation system that includes many bus routes that cover the entire city and surrounding areas. The train service in Wellington is limited but offers scenic journeys to Wairarapa and the Kapiti Coast. Taxis are also widely available for short trips, or you can rent a car to explore the city and its surroundings at your leisure. Alternatively, you can also rent a bike or take a leisurely walk to explore the city's attractions.

What to see around Wellington

Here are some nice places that can be visited in a day trip from Wellington: 1. Martinborough: This is a wine region located about an hour and a half drive from Wellington. It's known for its vineyards and charming town, which make for a great weekend getaway.
2. Kapiti Island: This is a nature reserve located about an hour north of Wellington. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and getting up close with native species like the Little Spotted Kiwi.
3. Wairarapa: This region, located about an hour and a half from Wellington, is known for its stunning landscapes, vineyards, and charming townships. Visitors can explore the region's forests, hike, or visit the Pukaha National Wildlife Centre.
4. Upper Hutt: This city, located about half an hour away from Wellington, has a number of attractions such as Staglands Wildlife Reserve, Trentham Memorial Park, and Kaitoke Regional Park.
5. Zealandia: This wildlife sanctuary, located just minutes from downtown Wellington, boasts an array of native flora and fauna, including tuatara, kiwi, and kakariki.
6. Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre: This is a breeding centre for many of New Zealand's rarest birds, located about two hours north of Wellington.
7. Castlepoint: This picturesque seaside village is about three hours drive from Wellington. Visitors can explore the lighthouse, rock formations, and enjoy the beach and nearby walks.
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