Top Wellington scenic highlights
Wellington is full of surprises and the best was to discover these are by foot. Only then you can truly discover the quality of Wellington's cuisine and culture, as some of the best to experience are tucked away.
Selected highlights at a glance
Exploring the inner city landscape
Wellington has one of the world's most beautiful harbours. The waterfront area between the city and Oriental Bay is a popular recreation area for visitors and locals alike.
Walk around Queens Wharf to Oriental Bay for a swim at the golden sand beach. If you're feeling adventurous, try sea kayaking, rollerblading and rock-climbing. Make yourself welcome at a café, restaurant or bar on the waterfront, which as an ever-developing hub and entertainment precinct.
There are numerous other walking routes to follow, from coastal tracks to hikes through the hills.
Striking architecture, both old and new
Nothing defines a city's character quite as well as its architecture. Wellington's most striking architectural feature is the collection of historical timber houses displayed on the green hills surrounding the harbour. The wooden theme is a consistent one, as you'll see when you visit Old St Paul's, Katherine Mansfield Birthplace, Antrim House, historical Thorndon and the Old Government Buildings - the largest wooden structure in the Southern Hemisphere.
At the southern end of Lambton Quay, you'll find an interesting collection of parliamentary buildings. Admire the Victorian Gothic Parliamentary Library, the Edwardian neo-classical Parliament House and the 1960s 'Beehive' - the executive wing of the parliamentary complex.
Mountain tops and mountain bikes
Catch the Cable Car from Lambton Quay up to the Botanic Garden, then wander down through 26 hectares of specialist gardens, native bush and lawn areas to historical Thorndon, New Zealand's oldest suburb. Or take in the 360° panorama of Wellington city, harbour and the Cook Strait from the top of Mount Victoria.
Hike and burn off some energy on one of the moutain biking tracks.
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Seasonal Tips
DURING YOUR VISIT
Watch spring come to life at the Botanic Garden, set in the rolling green hills above the city. The historic cable car takes visitors on a scenic ride up to the garden, where magnificent displays of exotic and native plants occupy 26 acres. Spring means new life at the Kapiti Island bird sanctuary, where rare native birds are given a secure environment to flourish and breed.
| The Majestic Centre, built in 1991, is the tallest building in Wellington. |
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