Wellington is the capital of New Zealand, but smaller than Auckland. The Wellington region extends to Hutt Valley and Wairarapa in the northeast and to Porirua and Kapiti in the north and along the west coast. It is a city where intellect, creativity, lifestyle, education, economy and government drive and strengthen each other. This vibrant cosmopolitan city is the southernmost capital in the world. Compact and safe, Wellington offers all the benefits of big cities, but with more convenience. For example, it is relatively easy to get around in Wellington, which creates an intimate atmosphere and easily leads to new ideas and creative, technical or scientific breakthroughs. The population in Wellington uses public transport the most compared to the whole of New Zealand. In addition, residents walk or cycle to work much more often than in the rest of New Zealand.
Population
About 487,000 people live in the Wellington region, which is about 11% of the New Zealand population. The population is a mix of European (70%), Maori (13%), Pacific Island (8%), Asian (8%) and other. About 25% of the population was not born in New Zealand, which gives the city a rich cultural value, suitable for both families and singles.
climate
The capital is known as windy Wellington, because it can regularly be windy. Wellington has more hours of sunshine than London and less rain than Auckland. The warmest month of the year is February with an average temperature of 17 degrees Celsius. The coldest month is July with an average temperature of 8 degrees Celsius.
Economy
Wellington has a stable and open economy that benefits from competitive structures and the fact that all government is located here. There are also 39 foreign embassies in Wellington. The Wellington region has the relatively highest working population and the highest average income in the country. The population in Wellington is also relatively more educated than the average New Zealander.
History
As the capital, Wellington is home to national treasures. New Zealand stories and heirlooms are housed in national institutions such as; Te Papa, the National Archives, National Library and the Parliament Building. The original name for Wellington comes from a Maori legend and is: Te Upoko o te Ika a Maui or the head of Mauis fish. This fish was caught and brought to the surface by the Polynesian sailor Maui and this fish became the North Island.
Sights
The Wellington region is blessed with beautiful landscapes and an area of contrasts. You can enjoy culture and art or explore the mountains, coasts or vineyards. The center feels European with plenty of cute shops and cafes and everything within walking distance. West of the city you can enjoy miles of beach, untouched native forests and beautiful Kapiti Island. In the east you will find vineyards and olive groves that dominate the landscape in Wairarapa. Almost all Wellington residents live within three kilometers of the beach.
Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
Te Papa is New Zealand’s innovative national museum and internationally renowned for interactive museum experiences. Admission is free, but short-term exhibitions may require a small contribution. New Zealand’s geology and natural environment and the stories of New Zealand’s original Maori people are showcased in Te Papa’s permanent exhibitions. In addition, various exhibitions are on offer showcasing New Zealand’s diverse art and visual culture and international exhibitions are also regularly featured. Te Papa also has an events program filled with free activities, performances, speeches, lectures and music.
Parliament building
A visit to New Zealand’s beautiful parliament building is well worth it. Part of the building is shaped like a beehive and is therefore also called the beehive. The building was later made earthquake-proof by lifting and adjusting the entire foundation. Free tours are given of this unique building.
Zealandia
Just minutes from the center of Wellington is Zealandia or Karori Sanctuary. This scenic reservoir is a living ecosystem that is home to some of New Zealand’s rarest and most extraordinary animals. Zealandia is a not-for- profit organization with the vision to restore the valley to the way it was before humans arrived. Lonely Planet describes Zealandia’s night tour as a life-changing experience in the Best in Travel Guide 2011. You will look for the endangered little spotted kiwi on this night tour.
City Gallery Wellington
The City Gallery Wellington offers first-class exhibitions from New Zealand timeless art to international art. As a visitor you can expect challenging and always catchy art from the world’s most prominent artists. The City Gallery offers a dynamic and cultural presentation of New Zealand’s capital.
Museum of Wellington
This popular museum takes you back in time several thousand years and back to vibrant contemporary Wellington. The interactive and exciting exhibitions appeal to all ages. Housed in an important landmark building on the waterfront, the museum gives you wonderful insights into Wellington’s rich social and cultural history, a perfect complement to Te Papa’s stories.
Old St Paul’s
Old St Pauls is a church with a living history. It was built in 1866 from native wood and the inside features beautiful colored glass. The church is a few minutes away from the center. You can take advantage of guided tours to learn more about this beautiful historic church.
Nature
Wellington has a varying landscape including 50,000 hectares of regional parks and forests and large nature reserves suitable for trekking, walkers, cyclists, horse riding and camping. There is also plenty to do for the adventurer; kayaking, 4 wheel driving, quad biking or mountain biking.
Seal Coast Safari
The Seal Coast Safari takes you on a three-hour breathtaking seal safari. You can also see other animals such as ostriches, goats, deer and wild horses. During the bumpy ride of about twenty kilometers along the coast, rocks and along rivers, you will be provided with plenty of stories and you can enjoy beautiful views.