Wellington, New Zealand’s capital is a small but perfectly formed holiday destination with a wealth of experiences just waiting to be enjoyed. A visit to this picturesque harbour city can be a flying weekend visit, a week-long exploration, or simply the icing on the cake of a grand tour of New Zealand. Walking Wellington’s eclectic back-streets, strolling at sunset along the cosmopolitan waterfront or setting out for a day’s hike in the rolling hills which embrace the city; whichever way you choose to discover this delightful part of the world will reveal a different layer.

A Spot of Culture

Wellington is definitely New Zealand’s premier cultural city with a surprising array of museums and galleries from which to choose. The two flagship galleries are the Museum of Wellington and the impressively housed Museum of New Zealand – Te Papa Tongarewa. Both of these are located on the waterfront so a visit the two can be planned even if you are pushed for time on your holiday to New Zealand. Walking through the doors of Te Papa takes you into a spectacularly designed foyer and, as you follow the exhibits through the space, you are introduced to a bold and innovative interactive museum experience. Other cultural sites you may find interesting for a visit are the Pataka, which showcases the best of New Zealand’s contemporary artists, and the Government Buildings, whose intricate facade looks like an Italian stone palace but is entirely made of wood.

Back to Nature

There are many ways to get back to nature in New Zealand; walking, cycling and four-wheel driving are just a few of the options available in and around Wellington. Hiring a mountain bike and heading out on to the many bike trails which traverse the hills behind the city is not only a way to enjoy fabulous views out across the Wellington and the harbour, but also a way to immerse yourself in the wonderful flora and fauna, much of which is unique to New Zealand. Walking and cycling these well-kept trails is suitable for all ages and fitness levels as they are graded in an easy-to-understand system. If you’re not feeling as energetic as you used to, but still want to explore the countryside, then hiring a motorbike or scooter might be the answer; it’s not only great fun, but you’ll be able to cover a lot of area as well.

Shopping Secrets

For a different kind of fun in New Zealand, walking the streets hand-in-hand with your credit card can make for a wonderfully relaxing diversion. Wellington is the perfect place for some retail therapy as you can walk the city shopping precinct from one end to the other in only twenty minutes. But don’t be fooled; in that short space Wellington manages to squeeze in an astounding and eclectic mix of designer, boutique, arts and local craft that can hold its head high on the world stage. Whether you’re looking for a cheap souvenir to take home to friends or you want to cover yourself in New Zealand Paua Shell or jade jewellery, Wellington can provide you with the opportunity to shop until you drop. Once you’ve exhausted your feet as well as your wallet, head for one of the many city bars or restaurants for a relaxing cocktail overlooking the harbour – a perfect day!

Author Bio: Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. While in New Zealand walking with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you can see the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices.

Category: Travel
Keywords: New Zealand