Welcome to Wellington - Top Attractions and Local Culture
At the southern tip of the North Island, between a sparkling harbor and rolling green hills, lies Wellington, the capital of New Zealand.
The city is compact and interesting, nestled between a dramatic harbour and bush clad hills. Great views can be found at the top of Mount Victoria, or by catching the cable car up to the Botanic Gardens. Downtown Wellington is ideally explored on foot. Made up of four quarters each with their own distinct mix of shopping, cafes, transport, accommodation, Wellington's intense urban experience is unrivalled in the country.
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The central city area of Wellington is the place to see performing arts, particularly ballet, theatre and musical performances. Local cuisine is sophisticated and inventive—an abundance of excellent cafes and restaurants are within walking distance of all the major hotels. The waterfront has been transformed into a graceful promenade with shops, restaurants, activities and elegant landscaping making it a real drawcard for visitors and locals alike. The new state of the art sports and entertainment stadium is just a short walk from downtown.
With over 350 eateries, it’s no wonder Wellington lays claim to being New Zealand’s gastronomic capital. The city’s coastal location means fresh seafood is a highlight on many menus, with local delicacies including crayfish, salmon, and paua – a New Zealand shellfish. Burger restaurants are also common. Wellington restaurants source many of their ingredients from the nearby Wairarapa region – lookout for the region’s award-winning Pinot Noir wines, gourmet ice cream, and Aorangi and Gouda cheeses.
A different side of Wellington can be found along the western Kapiti Coast. The route hugs the rugged coastline, providing spectacular views.
It is a familiar landmark to travelers arriving in Wellington, or flying out. It is just past the new ASB Sports Stadium on the right if you head to the airport by car. The sign is visible from the city itself. As you look at the sign you can imagine how the famous winds that blow through Wellington sweep part of the sign away into the sky!
Eating and drinking in the capital is an experience in itself, and restaurants in Wellington play a big part in continuing to make this place a hot spot for tourists and locals alike. The color, quirkiness, and character of Wellington certainly revolve around people, and when those same people need to eat three times a day, then the restaurant scene quickly becomes very much tied in with how the city presents itself.