Wellington
Wellington
Described as a village with skyscrapers which provides all the pleasures of a rural paradise.
Described as a village with skyscrapers which provides all the pleasures of a rural paradise.
Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, is a dynamic and vibrant destination that offers something for every traveler. Nestled between rolling hills and the sparkling waters of the Cook Strait, this city boasts a unique blend of stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and cosmopolitan flair. Whether you are an adventure-seeker, a culture buff, or simply looking to relax and take in the beauty of the region, Wellington has something to offer. The city's outdoor offerings are one of its biggest draws. Surrounded by rugged hills, Wellington is known for its stunning natural scenery, which includes some of the country's most beautiful parks, gardens, and nature reserves. The iconic Mount Victoria offers panoramic views of the city and its harbor, while the nearby Botanic Garden is a peaceful oasis of lush greenery and exotic flora. For a more active experience, head to the nearby hills for a hike, or explore the beautiful coastline by kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Cultural attractions are another highlight of Wellington. From the city's stunning museums and galleries to its vibrant performing arts scene, there's always something to see and do. The Te Papa Museum, one of New Zealand's most popular cultural institutions, is a must-visit for anyone interested in the country's rich history and heritage. Here, visitors can explore interactive exhibits, watch live performances, and take in stunning works of art and artifacts. The city's thriving theater scene is also worth checking out, with a number of companies producing cutting-edge plays and musicals year-round. Wellington is also renowned for its vibrant food and drink scene. With a thriving café culture and a plethora of innovative restaurants and bars, the city is a foodie's paradise. From locally-sourced seafood to fusion cuisine, there's something for every palate. For a true taste of Wellington, be sure to try the local specialty, fish and chips, washed down with a pint of local craft beer. For those looking to shop and explore the city's vibrant street life, there are plenty of opportunities to do so. From the bustling shopping districts of Lambton Quay and Cuba Street to the eclectic boutiques and vintage shops of Te Aro, there's something for everyone. Additionally, the city is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a range of bars, clubs, and pubs offering live music, great drinks, and a lively atmosphere. In conclusion, Wellington is a city that offers something for every traveler. With its stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and cosmopolitan flair, it is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting New Zealand. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a change of pace, Wellington is a city that promises to deliver a truly unforgettable experience.
It may be the capital of New Zealand, but holidays to Wellington are more than just a city break.
Wellington holidays in New Zealand offer a superb blend of urban life and wilderness experiences. Tucked away between the folds of a landscape of rugged hills and on the shores of a dramatic harbour, Wellington is often described as a village with skyscrapers and a holiday to Wellington provides all the pleasures of a rural paradise.
The city itself has always competed with Auckland's hip supremacy, but locals prefer to focus on the cultural and artistic treasures of this destination which has a population of only 380,000. Despite the small population, those on a Wellington holiday in New Zealand will be impressed by the astounding number of quality restaurants, bars, galleries, shops and theatres. Wellington may not be as hip as Auckland, but it is certainly better looking. With timber framed Victorian houses along steep valleys and overlooking the water, Wellington is certainly a picturesque holiday destination.
Cultural attractions for those on holiday in Wellington include a large selection of performing arts. It is perhaps only in Wellington that the political, academic and creative types blend seamlessly into one energetic region. Enjoy live theatre at its best at Downstage Theatre, Circa Theatre and BATS. Or catch a show at the beautifully restored Opera House or St James Theatre, which have a steady stream of ballet, opera and musicals. The theatre precinct is centred around Courtenay Place and the waterfront, and is surrounded by restaurants and cocktail bars.The work of filmmaker Peter Jackson and Oscar-winning Weta Workshop has taken Wellington to the world and the world to Wellington, through movies like Avatar, The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Film themed tours and visits to the Weta Cave in Miramar - the heart of ‘Wellywood’ – are a must for movie fans.
Holidays in Wellington will also satisfy those who must have access to great food and drink. Wellington buzzes with cafés, delicatessens and restaurants - the waft of roasting coffee beans tells you quickly that this city likes to get everything exactly right. The downtown area is divided into four distinct quarters, making it easy for visitors to experience the different personalities of the city. Courtenay Quarter is the nightlife nerve centre - it’s packed with restaurants, bars, cafes, cinemas and theatres. Cuba Quarter is bohemian and alternative - a great place to find ethnic cuisine. Lambton Quarter is thoroughly upmarket, with designer fashions and food to match. And the Waterfront Quarter is for daytime exploration with parks, museums and landmarks to discover.
Wellington may not be as hip as Auckland, but it is certainly better looking.
New Zealand’s seasons are opposite those in North America and Europe.
Wellington’s average daily temperature is 13 (°C), slightly above the national average, but the city has also earned a nickname of Windy Wellington thanks to the Roaring Forties—prevailing westerly winds that scour the Southern Hemisphere between latitudes of 40 and 49 degrees. As a result, the city basks in only am average of 40 calm days per year.
Wellington’s warmest months—December, January, and February, with temperatures of 18°C to 25° which coincide with peak tourist season. Avoid travelling December 20 through January 31—and other major holidays—when Kiwis take vacation. Though temperatures rarely fall below freezing, off-season for travellers falls during the coldest months, June, July, and August, when temps range from 8°C to 12°C .
Come spring (September, October, and November), the countryside comes alive—a gorgeous time to visit as long as you tote your umbrella and light jacket. In fall (March, April, and May), temperatures are pleasant, crowds are fewer, and prices are better, which makes it the perfect time to visit.
Wellington is home to the country's biggest cultural event, the biennial New Zealand International Arts Festival . It features international works and the best of New Zealand talent in everything from opera to jazz, dance to comedy. The next festival will be staged in February and March 2010. A major spinoff from the festival is the growth of the Wellington Fringe Festival, which is a completely separate event run at the same time. It's now an annual event celebrating offbeat productions and innovative art forms. Summer City Festival , staged during January and February each year, launches Wellington's events calendar with more than 70 free activities such as the Teddy Bears' Picnic, the Rock Barge Concert on Oriental Parade, a Pacific Islands Festival, and Summer Shakespeare in the Botanic Garden Dell. Montana World of Wearable Art is a theatrical costume spectacle not to be missed, now staged annually at the Events Centre Wellington in mid-September and early October. This 2-hour visual extravaganza attracts international entrants and sell-out audiences of over 22,000 -- not bad considering it started in Nelson in 1987 in a leaky tent with just 200 people watching. Montana Wellington International Jazz Festival features a superb roster of national and international jazz musicians performing modern jazz through the classics (mid- to late Oct at various city locations). Martinborough Country Fair is a popular gathering of crafts artisans from around the country. Held the first Saturday in February and the first Saturday in March, it attracts about 30,000 visitors. Martinborough is about an hour's drive northeast of Wellington. Golden Shears is a 3-day international shearing contest that includes wool handling and sheep and goat shearing. It's held in late February or early March in Masterton, 103km (64 miles) northeast of Wellington. In November, catch a special 50-minute festival train from Wellington to the Toast Martinborough Wine, Food & Music Festival. Shuttles run a continuous circuit within a 10km (6-mile) area of Martinborough's town square to Martinborough vineyards, where tastings take place with the winemakers.
