Rolling hills and ocean waves engulf Wellington’s vibrant inner city from all sides. It’s arguably this trifecta of earth, sea, and city that makes Wellington such a must-see destination for travellers. With incredible food, shopping and scenery within an easy stroll from the city centre, visitors can find new experiences at every turn in the CBD from end to end. Explore Lambton Quay and Cuba Street, then wander all the way to Oriental Parade across town (and still have energy to explore the cocktail bars and cafes tucked away down one of Wellington’s many laneways).
With the reputation as New Zealand’s film and culture capital, there are endless events to enjoy in downtown Wellington. Be sure to visit one of the city’s many historic theatres and check out the latest exhibition at the national museum, Te Papa Tongarewa. Other must-sees include the World of Wearable Art if you’re visiting during September – October, Wellington On a Plate in August, a culinary tour of the foodie capital, or the two-day festival Cuba Dupa in March, which is an eccentric celebration of everything the artistic city has to offer.
Film-buffs delight in Wellington’s attractions
For the film enthusiasts, Wellington offers a number of movie tours and experiences – particularly relating to The Lord of the Rings, which, after being filmed in and around Wellington, led to a skyrocket in tourism and launched New Zealand as a go-to destination for the global film industry.
Many of the experiences and attractions are located a short drive outside of the city centre:
-
The Weta Cave and Workshop is where many of the props and costumes were created for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. It has since been utilised for blockbusters such as Avatar, Blade Runner 2049 and Thor: Ragnarok. Get up close and personal with the props and get hands on to learn how they were made.
-
Mt. Victoria, a picturesque location itself, is recognisable as being the filming location for scenes involved in The Hobbit. Mt. Victoria is easily accessible by car or walking trail and boasts the best views of the Wellington surrounds.
-
The Putangirua Pinnacles, a series of impressive rock formations, are a must-see for fans and non-fans alike.
A great experience around every corner
Wellington is a historic town with Māori legends dating as far back as 950 AD. According to Maori tradition, Kupe (a legendary figure of Māori mythology) was the first to explore and discover the region in the 10th century CE, leading to the eventual settlement of the area by a number of tribes around 1280. European settlement began in 1839, leading to the city being declared a year later and made the nation’s capital less than 30 years later in 1865.
With such a rich history at the intersection of cultures, it’s little wonder that Wellington today boasts many historic and cultural experiences for travellers to enjoy. The city offers a taste of history to pique anyone’s interest:
-
The Wellington Cable Car – Offering panoramic views of the city, no trip is complete without visiting the Cable Car Museum to see the original cable cars from the early 1900s on display.
-
Old St. Pauls Cathedral – Solely constructed of native timbers, it is no longer an operating parish but remains a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture.
-
Wrights Hill Fortress – Built during World War II to protect New Zealand from a potential attack; a sobering reminder of the threat of war.
-
Te Aro Pa, the preserved remains of a thriving 160-year-old Māori village, discovered during the demolition of a Victorian-era building in 2005.
Car hire is the easiest way to see this cool little capital at your own pace. Conveniently located in the centre of town, Hertz Wellington will efficiently help you hit the road during your stay!
Dining and nightlife to make any city jealous
With so much to see and do in Wellington, it won’t be long until you need a moment to sit and replenish your energy with a bite to eat and a refreshment or two. Fortunately for you, there are endless culinary options that will have you wondering why you ever ate anywhere else!
If seafood is your thing, you’re in for a treat with places like the Ortega Fish Shack; a hugely popular destination with locals and tourists alike that offers the freshest seafood you’ll find. While the décor may be deliberately kitsch, the flavours you’ll experience are next-level.
Or if you’re more of a sampler than a chooser, you may prefer the convey of boutique food trucks you’ll find parked up any given Sunday at the Harbourside Markets. Jerk Chicken, Chilean hot pockets, Dutch pancakes – you’ll find it all, and probably try it all as well.
Wash down all that great food with a craft beverage at the Garage Project Brewery, and you won’t ever want to leave. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.
