Wellington is the capital of New Zealand. You’ve probably heard that it is special because of its not the most comfortable climate. It is very windy here, but this disadvantage is easily compensated with the lively atmosphere of the city. It is a creative capital with unique features. There is a place here for people who want to get a quality education and build a career, as well as for creative people looking for inspiration.
We’ve put together a list of 10 things to do if you find yourself in The Best Small Capital of the World.
1. Visit Te Papa Museum
Te Papa National Museum of New Zealand will be interesting for visitors of all ages. The exhibits are innovative and interactive. The permanent exhibition will introduce you to the geology and nature of New Zealand, the history of the indigenous peoples of the Maori, as well as the culture, science and visual arts of the country.
In addition to exhibitions, the museum runs free programs of outdoor activities: theatre performances, lectures, workshops and much more.
The cost of visiting the museum (permanent exhibition) is free.
We advise you to go to the most popular exhibition created by the Weta studio. The exposition is dedicated to the First World War and New Zealand’s participation in the Battle of Gallipoli.
Read more on the official Te Papa website.
The exhibition dedicated to the Battle of Gallipoli. Te Papa Museum.
Photo: www.wellingtonnz.com
2. Wellington’s best viewing point – Mount Victoria
Panoramic and picturesque views of the harbour, the city and its borders. The highest point is 196 meters. Accessible by car, bus from Wellington Center (CBD), and on foot.
Mount Victoria. Photo: www.wellingtonnz.com
3. Visit coffee shops
Wellington is said to be the coffee capital, and there are more coffee shops and restaurants per capita than in New York, and they’re all pretty damn good. Coffee shops are located literally on every corner and the locals admit that they are “a little” obsessed with coffee.
The best coffee shops can be found here.
Photo: www.wellingtonnz.com
4. Funicular – Wellington cable car
Ride the historic cable car, one of Wellington’s most popular tourist attractions.
The funicular runs from downtown Wellington to the picturesque suburb of Kelburn and Wellington Botanical Gardens. It departs every 10 minutes and rises to a height of 120 meters. It offers stunning views of the city’s downtown and Victoria University.
Photo: www.wellingtonnz.com
5. Journey to Zealandia Wild Reserve
The Zealandia Eco Reserve is just 10 minutes’ drive from Wellington city centre. A green corner hidden in the suburbs aims to show visitors the nature of New Zealand what it was before the arrival of man on the lands of the country. Here you can see more than 20 species of local wild plants, see unique New Zealand birds and even book a night tour to find kiwi birds.
Read more on the official Zealandia website.
Photo: www.visitzealandia.com
6. Weta Cave Studio
In the mini-museum Weta Cave you can get acquainted with some of the exhibits of the famous “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, visit the film studio where the magic of special effects takes place, and even take a tour and try to create your own character for the film yourself.
Read more on the official Weta Cave website.
Photo: www.stuff.co.nz
7. Wellington embankment – Oriental Bay
Wellington Waterfront is a lovely place full of cafes, parks, art objects and bars. A favourite place of locals for sports or just walking along the beach.
Photo: www.wellingtonnz.com
8. Wellington Zoo
Have you ever wanted to feed a giraffe, play with a crowd of meerkats? All this and much more is possible at Wellington Zoo, “the world’s finest small zoo.” And there are more than 100 species of animals in the zoo.
Cost and opening hours on the official Wellington Zoo website.
Photo: www.facebook.com/WgtnZoo/
9. Walking tour in the city
A guided walking tour is the best way to quickly get to know Wellington and discover the heart and soul of New Zealand’s capital. Local guides will show you key historical and cultural attractions and give you an idea of this vibrant city. They will tell stories about the past and present, about the people and places of Wellington. Things you don’t always find in travel guides.
Photo: www.wellingtonnz.com
10. Cuba Street
Cuba Street is where hipsters, artists and vintage enthusiasts live. The street is a bohemian haven with some of the city’s most vibrant shops, bars, cafes and food markets. Every evening, street performers play music, stage shows and poetry evenings. Lovers of creativity and music are sure to visit.
Photo: www.wellingtonnz.com
Wellington is home to one of the top universities in the country, the University of Victoria, as well as government institutions and language schools. If you are interested in studying in Wellington, fill out our form.
