Must-see places to visit in Wellington, New Zealand.
Wellington
New Zealand’s capital makes its country proud. Spend a few hours exploring the harbour, and you’ll start to see why even the locals holiday here. By the time you work your way around a few galleries, past historic and parliament buildings, including the Beehive and do a spot of shopping along Lambton Quay, it’s time to find a prime spot by the water for a meal. Pull up a chair at one of the seaside villages or trendy beachside cafés.
Soak up Wellington’s vibrant cultural scene, with its lively bars, live theatre and concerts and its array of art galleries and museums. Stroll down to the waterfront and call into Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum and discover the nation’s heritage through interactive exhibits. Or take a ride on the historic Wellington Cable Car to the Botanic Gardens for sweeping views of the city and harbour.
Find unbelievable natural wonders in and around the city. Check out the best sights by cruising the harbour on foot through Otari-Wilton’s Bush or in four-wheel drive mode, where you’ll travel the south coast to spot Fur seals offshore. Cycle or stroll around picturesque Oriental Bay or simply relax in one of the many cafés and lose yourself in the spectacular harbour views. For encounters of the animal kind, visit Zealandia for some of New Zealand’s rarest native animals and join a night tour for a chance to see the kiwi bird.
If indulgence is more your style, spend the day exploring further afield in the Wairarapa wine region, where you can visit the boutique vineyards of Martinborough to sample world-class wines and discover the expansive rural landscape. Head to the Kapiti coast and treat yourself to gourmet delights, including local cheeses and ice cream, or simply relax on a sandy beach and take in the breathtaking coastal views of Kapiti Island.
Martinborough
Martinborough is packed with colonial charm and has over 20 wineries, most within cycling and walking distance from the quaint village square. Some of New Zealand’s best pinot noir comes from the town’s predominately family-owned vineyards, so it’s not surprising it is a key stop on the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail. Guided wine tours, including Tranzit Tours’ daily Martinborough Gourmet Wine Tour, are available, as are self-guided cycling tours. Several bike hire companies can be found in the village, and you can pick up a map from the local visitor’s centre.
