Wellington 

Wellington is New Zealand’s capital city and one of the most picturesque. You get the most dramatic view of the city when you fly in to the airport from the north. Flying up the harbour you get a picture of a city of bush, and hills with houses perched – sometimes seemingly impossibly – on them.

Wellington is known as New Zealand’s arts and cultural capital. If you enjoy the arts this is the place to visit. Visit the galleries. Go and see the world-class New Zealand Symphony Orchestra or the Royal New Zealand Ballet. Keep and eye out for the public sculpture - there are many interesting and contemporary pieces around the city – or follow the Writers’ Walk along the waterfront.

And it’s on the waterfront that you’ll find Te Papa Tongarewa. Te Papa, as it’s colloquially known, means ‘our place’ and it presents New Zealand’s story through art and interactive display. Te Papa is a must visit.

Wellington has a vibrant café scene and some of the best restaurants in the country. It’s a city that enjoys fine food and, very much so, good coffee. Accommodation in Wellington ranges from high-class hotels and city apartments to backpacker lodges.