Wellington and the Wairarapa Travel Guide

Photo: Ian Trafford/Tourism New Zealand

People are finding their way to Wellington, and not merely because it's the sailing point for ferries heading south. From the windswept green heights overlooking New Zealand's capital, a crystal-clear winter morning reveals stunning views over the deceptively quiet waters of Cook Strait stretching to the snowcapped mountains of the South Island; and it's sheer heaven on a mild summer night when a silver medallion of moon tops mysterious misty hillsides.

Hotels

Wellington and the Wairarapa Hotels

Accommodations in Wellington range from no-frills backpacker hostels and motel units, to classic bed-and-breakfasts in colonial-era villas, to sleek central...read more

Restaurants

Wellington and the Wairarapa Restaurants

In Wellington, restaurants, cafés, and sports bars have been springing up overnight like mushrooms. Although we'll never be without the classic meal...read more

Things To Do

Things To Do in Wellington and the Wairarapa

Explore the best sights, entertainment, and shopping with our top choices and insider tips.

Hotels

Wellington and the Wairarapa Experiences

  • Top Reasons to Go to Wellington and the Wairarapa

    Arts and Culture: The national symphony, ballet, and opera are headquartered here. And the biennial New Zealand International Arts Festival celebrates... Read more

  • Kapiti Coast and Kapiti Island

    Kapiti Island Nature Tours. Tours range from a day tour to an overnight stay that includes accommodation, three meals, permit, and kiwi-spotting... Read more

  • Akatarawa Valley

    Winding through the steep bush-clad hills north of Wellington, the narrow road to the Akatarawa Valley (in the Maori language, Akatarawa means... Read more

  • Matiu and Somes Island

    A wonderful place to spend a day walking and exploring, the Matiu Island Scientific and Historic Reserve lies in Wellington Harbour approximately... Read more

  • Wairarapa's Best Wineries

    Pick up a map of the area vineyards at Martinborough's visitor center, then hit the road to sample some of the country's best up-and-coming vineyards... Read more

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