Wellington wraps around a natural harbour at the southern end of the North Island. Its compact scale makes it unusually easy to combine museums, restaurants, waterfront walks and neighbourhood exploration.
Culture and food
Te Papa provides an excellent introduction to New Zealand’s natural and cultural history, while galleries, independent shops and a strong coffee and restaurant scene give the city contemporary energy.
Capital between land and sea
Hilltop viewpoints and coastal walks are close to the centre, and the harbour is never far away. Wellington also connects naturally with Wairarapa wine country and the ferry route to the South Island.