Wellington
(population 206.000)Wellington is New Zealand's capital. This capital is often referred to as "Windy Welly". Because of the winds blowing trough the Cook Straight. Wellington is a beautiful place. The city is characterized by its magnificent harbor, hills and historical wooden buildings. Besides being the city were the political deals take place this city is the place where you will be able to find many nice museums, theaters, cinemas, cabaret shows; cultural and artistic expressions.
Outdoor
Aerial sight seeing
You can explore Wellington and or its surrounding area by air.
Beaches and surfing
There are some excellent Beaches in Wellington. Some nice swimming Beaches are: Princess Bay, Seatoun and Scorching. Some good Surfing Beaches are Lyall Bay and Palliser Bay. You will be able to rent surf equipment and or to get lessons in the capital of New Zealand.
Cruises
You can undertake some nice cruises from for example Wellington Harbor to Days Bays.
Kayaking
You can rent one in Wellington and if you wish you can attend a tour.
Mountainbiking and cycling
There are some good opportunities to bike in and around town, including the Makarara Peak Mountain Bike Park. For more information about mountainbiking please visit the tourist information. In town you will be able to rent a bike and the related equipment.
Tramping
There are many nice tramping opportunities in Wellington; from walking in the park to walking on the Matiu-Somes Island. Some more tramps are: Harbor Front Walk, Central City Stroll, City to Sea Walkway and Makara Track. There are some heritage walks as well, example of these are: Old Shoreline and Thorndon. For more information please visit a DOC or tourist information office.
Culture and Entertainment
Cultural activity
Mediaplex & Film Archive
Here you will be able to witness Wellington's rich film and media History and affinity.
National Archives
National treasures are held in these archives.
National Library (Gallery)
For the book fanatics amongst us this is the place to be. This gallery features the most comprehensive book collection in New Zealand. National Library has no permanent exhibition.
Wellington Zoo
Here you will be able to find a wide variety of wildlife from all over the world.
Cultural buildings and places
Botanic Gardens
These gardens are especially in February worth visiting. At that time most of the flowers are flourishing.
Government Buildings
These buildings are one of the largest wooden buildings in the world.
Matiu-Somes Island
This island is a former prisoners of war camp. There are some tramps and Beaches on this former prisoner island.
Festivals
Fringe Festival
From end February till March this festival shows arts, dance and theatre.
International Film Festival
This takes place in July and shows New Zealand's and the world's best films.
International Jazz Festival
This festivals name speaks for itself. The festival is held in October.
International Laugh Festival
During this festival you will find many national and international comedians in town. It takes place in April and or May (it varies).
New Zealand Festival
This event takes place in late February till March. This festival represents New Zealand's Culture.
Summer City Festival
This starts at New Years Eve and takes place till (the end of) February.
Toast Martinborough Wine, Food and Music Festival
The main thing on this festival, held in November, is tasting wines.
Galleries
City Gallery Wellington
There you will find major national and international exhibitions. You can visit this museum quite often; the exhibitions change quickly.
Academy Galleries
Here you will find the academics their arts. But also international fine arts are featured in this gallery.
Museums
Cable Car Museum
This is a museum telling a story about a cable car. A ride in this cable car is also recommendable.
Colonial Cottage Museum
This museum is about the colonial life in Wellington. At the same time this museum is special because it is one of Wellington's city oldest buildings.
Museum of Wellington City & Sea
This museum features the History of Wellington; including paying quite a lot attention to the History of Wellington on sea.
National Cricket Museum
The name of the museum explains the topic of it. The museum contains videos. The History of this sport is discussed as well.
National Tattoo Museum
This museum includes the Maori Tattoo History and Maori art. Of course the moko (facial tattoo under Maori men) is discussed as well.
Te Papa Museum
This is a very interactive and innovative museum featuring stories of New Zealand and its people. Te Papa Museum is located at Wellington's waterfront and should not be skipped when visiting New Zealand's capital.