Travel destinations: Wellington, New Zealand

Located at the southern end of the North island of New Zealand is Wellington, the capital city of this beautiful country. A city of culture, open green spaces, vibrant restaurants and bars, sporting venues and an amazing harbour, Wellington really does have it all. Many visitors to New Zealand simply pass through Wellington on-route to, or from the South Island, and unfortunately few stop more than a night or two to enjoy all that the city has to offer. In fact, you could easily spend a week or more exploring this little gem of a city, and still want more.

Maybe begin your time in Wellington with a trip to the top of Mount Victoria. From here, you can take in a 360-degree panoramic view of the city and surrounding area; great for orientation in what can be a tricky city to navigate.

If the weather is favourable then a stroll along oriental parade and back towards the city will take you past the door of the city’s museum, Te Papa. With long opening hours, this is a fantastic museum and you could easily while away a day learning about New Zealand culture, Maori history and the Treaty of Waitangi. Further along the waterfront you could maybe take a harbour cruise or stop for a spot of lunch at Shed 5; one of Wellington’s finest restaurants.

After lunch, why not stroll along Lambton Quay for a spot of leisurely shopping or a coffee; something Wellington does particularly well. From Lambton Quay you could then take a cable car up to Kelburn. This will give you access to the top of the Botanical Gardens, with its amazing rose garden and view of the harbour. In the summer months, you may be lucky to catch one of the fabulous open-air concerts held within the gardens.

If sport is your thing then maybe venture to the Westpac stadium to see New Zealand take on the opposition at rugby; the Haka is quite amazing when experienced first hand. If you prefer cricket, at the other end of the city is the international cricket ground.

Being the Capital city of New Zealand, Wellington is the home of the parliament buildings. The famous Beehive stands proud in the Thorndon area of the city, and guided tours of the parliament building can be arranged. Across the road from the Beehive is the” Back Bencher”, a great little pub that serves good food, a good pint of ale and is adorned with cartoon sculptures of various politicians.

If nightlife is what you are after then you will not be disappointed in Wellington. Head to the Cuba Street area of the city and you can party the night away in a variety of pubs, bars and clubs, visit the cinema or theatre and delight in the company of those who also enjoy the thrills of this fabulous city.