Wellington
- Turangi
322 km (201 miles)
Approximately 4 hours
Road Conditions: Motorway/State Highway
Wellington is compact, cultured and full of character. Nestled between the harbour and the hills, the downtown area is ideal for explorations on foot. Enjoy cafes, restaurants, museums, theatre and all kinds of shops.
The road north takes you past Waikanae Beach. Offshore from here is Kapiti Island, a nature reserve for close encounters with rare birds. A car museum and gourmet cheese factory are other local attractions. Further north is Levin, which has many factory shops. Wading birds are the things to see in Foxton. Bulls is known for its antiques.
The Mangaweka Gorge is the next attraction – a scenic masterpiece that leads you into Taihape, the Gumboot Throwing capital of the world. In Waiouru, an army town, you should check out the QE2 Memorial Museum. The long, straight Desert Road is the final lap of your journey – great views of the volcanoes.
The town of Turangi is the trout fishing capital of New Zealand. There are famous fishing spots in almost every direction. Rafting on the Tongariro River is another way to enjoy the region.
Scenic Highlights
Archives New Zealand
At Archives New Zealand, you can view fascinating displays based on historic documents, maps, paintings, photos and films.
Battle Hill Farm Forest Park
Enjoy sweeping views from hiking and riding trails in this historic forest park. Learn about Maori history while you relish the farm-fresh air.
Wellington Walkways
Views, forests, parks and gardens keep things interesting along these signposted Wellington walkways.
Wrights Hill Fortress and Recreation Reserve
Wrights Hill offers 360 degree views of Wellington and the surrounding area, as well as walking tracks and picnic areas.
Kaimanawa Forest Park
Explore native forests and rivers in a large forest park. Short walks pass through a variety of native trees and experienced hikers will enjoy the challenging overnight tracks.
Zealandia - The Karori Sanctuary Experience
This significant conservation attraction is located in a secluded suburban valley - just 2.5 kilometres from Wellington's central business district.
Makara Track
Makara Walking Track combines spectacular long-range views with a walk along a wild, west coast beach.
Matiu/Somes Island
Maori history, early European history, war stories and wildlife - this island, in the middle of Wellington Harbour, has it all.
National War Memorial and Carillon
In a beautiful art deco setting, learn about defining times in New Zealand's history and discover a huge musical bell instrument.
Mount Victoria
Breathtaking views and great walking tracks reward those who venture to the top of Mount Victoria.
Wellington Central Waterfront
Explore Wellington's waterfront on foot and visit Queens Wharf, Te Papa, Chaffers Marina and Oriental Bay.
Old Government Buildings
Feel the grace and elegance of the 1800s at Government Buildings, the largest wooden building in the southern hemisphere.
Wellington Botanic Garden
From ancient forests to colourful flower beds, the Wellington Botanic Garden is a delightful experience, completed by great views of the city and harbour.
Red Rocks Reserve
Put half a day aside for this easy coastal walk to Red Rocks and a fur seal colony on the south side of Wellington.
Activities
Lake Taupo
Fishing – Fresh Water (17),
Rafting (3),
Walking/Trekking (1)
Wellington
Gardens (6),
Heritage Attractions (5)
Tour and Sightseeing
Lake Taupo
Fishing – Fresh Water (1),
Walking/Trekking (1)
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