I’m so sorry Auckland but, whilst travelling around New Zealand, I think Wellington was my favourite ‘livable’ city (not to say that I don’t LOVE living in Auckland).
Wellington was just a bit of me – quirky, relaxed, cultured, picturesque, buzzing and, for a capital city not toooo overbearing.
For some peculiar reason, the Kiwi Experience only recommended one night in Wellington therefore, I decided to extend my stay to three nights to ensure I could get the most out of this hip capital (and thank god I did)!
Here are my top must see sights whilst visiting this city.
Wander around the waterfront
The waterfront is a picturesque and lively area to wander around.
Boasting quirky pop up shops in colourful shipping containers andย outside bars serving drinks to people lounging on bean bags, it’s a great place to start your exploring and get a real feel for the city.
Visit the Botanical Gardens
Located at the top of Wellington’s old-fashioned cable car lies the city’s beautiful Botanical Gardens.
A majestic Chinese garden encompassing a shimmering duck pond, a vibrant rose garden emitting fruity floral fragrances and pristine paths weaving through lush greenery and woodland, Wellington’s Botanical Gardens are one of the best gardens I have ever explored (and that’s a lot!)
When I went, the weather was pure perfection meaning I was treated to a fabulous clear view across the city’s skyline.
Explore Cuba Street
A hip, happening area, Cuba Street is the perfect place to find the best of Wellington’s eccentric bars, restaurants and cafes.
Wander down this street at the weekend and you’ll be able to hear music pumping by midday…
Also be sure to grab one of Fidel’s enormous milkshakes!
Climb Mount Victoria
Mount Victoria is a mountain peak around a 20/30 minute walk from the city centre and offers outstanding panoramic views across the city.
A must see at sunrise, sunset (or both), grab a picnic, bottle of wine (it’s never too early for vino…) and a camera and hike your way to the summit. Admire the view as the city comes alive with commuters or twinkling lights as you cheers to picture perfect Wellington.
Te Papa Museum
Te Papa is hands-down the BEST museum I have ever set foot in (sorry British museum).
Renowned for its interactive and playful exhibitions, I spent at least 5/6 hours exploring Te Papa’s six floors. At the time I went, the museum was hosting the heart-wrenching Gallipoli exhibition. It’s hard to put into words how good this exhibition was…
Gigantic, life-like models of war soldiers, veterans and nurses created by the incredibly talented people at the Weta Workshop, the Gallipoli models were embellished in unbelievably realistic details and were accompanied by extensive information about each model’s experience in the war. It was a touching experience and one, which taught me so so much.
From religion and geology to history and gender, Te Papa is rich in all things New Zealand AND is free entry, which means it is a must visit whilst in Wellington!
Weta Workshop
As I’m not a die-hard Lord of the Rings or Hobbit fan (please forgive me), this isn’t somewhere I visited myself however, I’ve heard from LOTR lovers that the Weta Workshop is definitely worth a visit whilst in Wellington!
Offering an insight into Peter Jackson’s skilful wax works and digital special effects, you will get to see some of the props, models and weapons used in some of your favourite films as well as, how they’re made.
Have you ever visited Wellington? What would you add to this list?
