Wellington and the Wairarapa Travel Guide

Guidebooks

Fodor's New Zealand
Trade Paperback

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.

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

Fodor's Choice

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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

Fodor's Choice

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Things To Do in Wellington and the Wairarapa

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

$1298* -- New Zealand 'Spring' Fares from West Coast, R/T Air New Zealand
$2699 -- 12-Night Australia & New Zealand incl. $300 Credit CruCon Cruise Outlet

* Some taxes, fees additional

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

A drive up the West Coast from Wellington is not to be missed. State Highway 1 takes you north, and about a half hour out of the city you hit... 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

News & Features

News, Airlines

US Airways Launches New App

US Airways launched a new app for passengers this week, letting them book flights, find airport maps,... Read more
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