Wellington

New Zealand’s capital, Wellington, has been nicknamed “Windy Wellington” because of the winds that characterize its climate year round. Wellington is well known for its culture, heritage buildings, important museums as well for the food and nightlife.

Location

Wellington is located in the North Island and is a harbor city. It’s surrounded by hills but also has a nice coastline.

How to get to Wellington

Wellington International Airport is located quite close to the city center. Many domestic flights arrive here and there are some flights from Australia as well. There is a bus service connecting the airport to the city but tourists can always take a taxi or the shuttle service.

Regular ferries connect the capital with the South Island (at Picton).

There is a train service between Wellington and Auckland , as well as daily connections to other important cities in the country.

Weather

The capital is known as the Windy City and for good reason. The prevailing winds blow from northwest. The strongest winds blow the south. It’s never too cold or too hot in Wellington. During winter temperatures never get below freezing, while summers are never hot.

Temperatures

May: avg high 13 C / 56 F; avg low 9 C / 49 F

Feb: avg high 19 / 67 F; avg low 14 C / 57 F

Things to do

Te Papa is the national museum. It’s worth a look if you are passionate about history or need entertain the little ones on a rainy day. Entrance is free.

The Wellington Cable Car offers great views of the city and its harbor. It’s open daily until 10 PM.

There are several look out points on the hills surrounding the city. To get great views, climb up on Mount Victoria, where you’ll get a 360 view of the city. It’s the best lookout point in Wellington. Further away from the city, there is Mount Kaukau, which also offers nice views of the area. Brooklyn Windmill offers incredible views of the city and Cook Strait. Definitely don’t forget your camera!

Oriental Parade is a nice beach where you can enjoy some nice time. The water might be a bit too cold though to swim in. But you can always try the swimming pools.

The grounds of Parliament are open for the public. You can visit the Parliament Building, the library and the Executive Wing (known as the Beehive).

The Botanic Garden is an excellent place to go either for a long walk or for a picnic. Explore the flora while enjoying a day out.

After a day of sightseeing, enjoy the food and wine at one of the restaurants or head to one of the cafés for your caffeine fix.