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.

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

A different side of Wellington can be found along the western Kapiti Coast . The route hugs the rugged coastline, providing spectacular views. Off the coast is the world renowned bird sanctuary Kapiti Island . The warm climate and relaxed lifestyle of this area have given birth to a luxurious style of country life—there are olive groves, feature gardens and unique bed and breakfasts.

Just north of Wellington city is the Hutt Valley, an area that offers a multitude of outdoor and adventure experiences including bush and coastal walks, 4WD (four-wheel drive) tours, golf, mountain biking and fishing.

- Wellington city - capital of New Zealand
- Porirua - a major retail centre and home to Pataka , museum of Pacific art and culture
- Hutt City - across the harbour from Wellington city
- Upper Hutt - at the base of the Rimutaka hills
- Kapiti Coast - with its warm, relaxed climate

Wellington
Whether you want to dabble in history or indulge at divine restaurants, Wellington is a capital city with a great deal of style. Enjoy!

Kapiti Island
Kapiti Island is a nature reserve that protects some of New Zealand’s rarest and most endangered birds. Launch trips leave from Paraparaumu Beach.

Lower Hutt
Lower Hutt’s riverside location makes it attractive in any season. Enjoy excellent museums and art galleries or drive the bays to Eastbourne.

Otaki
From the rural town of Otaki you can plan expeditions into the Tararua Forest Park, where there are great hiking and hunting opportunities.

Paraparaumu
Golf, gourmet foods and scenic flights are three reasons to spend some time in Paraparaumu. This sunny coastal town promises plenty to do.

Porirua
The harbour city of Porirua is just 15 minutes north of Wellington. It’s the home of Pataka, one of New Zealand’s most important museums.

Upper Hutt
Upper Hutt is a city for fresh air and outdoor fun. Hike or bike in the hills, fish in the river and stroll some of the 50 parks and reserves.

Waikanae
Take a break in Waikanae to discover the nature reserve. Pathways allow you to explore the swamp forest habitat and the eels are fed at 2pm.

Carterton
Carterton is known for its daffodils, antique shops and historic cottages, or you can delve into the wilderness of the Tararua Forest Park.

Eketahuna
The settlement of Eketahuna is situated on the banks of the Makakahi River. In kiwi slang, Eketahuna represents the archetypal small country town.

Featherston
If you’re a railway or military enthusiast, you’ll want to visit Featherston. This historic Wairarapa town is known for seriously good museums.

Greytown
The main street of Greytown is memorable for its carefully restored Victorian wooden buildings. Charming cafes and restaurants are a strong point too.

Martinborough
Martinborough is all about food, wine and having a fine time. Park yourself in a character cottage and discover the vineyards and restaurants on foot.

Masterton
In Masterton every March, sheep shearing is hailed as an art form. This town is the main shopping and service centre for the rural Wairarapa region.

Woodville
If you like to fossick around antique shops, spend a few hours in Woodville. Hunt for china, collectables and authentic New Zealand knick knacks.