Self-proclaimed “coolest little capital”, Wellington, is a trove of fun, yet is almost always overlooked by visitors as they head straight for South Island. Make this mistake no more. Tucked between rolling hills and the shores of a stunning harbor, it promises a boatload of fun, so get in your car rental and set off on your exploration of Wellington!
Receive a Middle Earth welcome the moment you step into the airport, as an oversized Gollum head dangles appealingly from the rafters. Located smack in the centre of Middle Earth, expect nothing short of a Tolkien fantasy in this charming waterfront city. Hop into your rental car from Wellington Airport and journey the 40 minutes up to Weta Workshop. A 5-time Oscar winning special effects company, they have produced films like Lord Of The Rings and The Hobbit. A tour of their premises will give you an unprecedented insight into the creative process of filmmaking. Don’t forget to check out Weta Cave, their gift shop with its own mini museum. Have your cameras at the ready because the cutest figures of movie characters are on display there. Best of all – it’s free!
For our fellow greenthumbs out there, proceed in your rental car to Zealandia, Wellington only 10 minutes away from thecity centre. A pristine eco-reserve in the heart of the city, Zealandia houses the kiwi bird (which we can assure you is the cutest), and many other species endemic to the island. Wellington Botanic Gardens also provides a firsthand view of the native bush and exotic flora of New Zealand. Only 5.8km from Wellington Airport, a trip to the gardens should fly by in your rental car.
Of course, what’s a vacation without a sprinkling of history? Visit the National Museum of New Zealand, often referred to as Te Papa, for extensive learning of Pacific and Maori art and cultures. The museum is kid-friendly, and provides hands-on experiences to cater to any eager little hands; simply perfect for a family day out. Best of all, it’s located in the Wellington city centre, so you’ll have no trouble finding your way there in your rental car. The Great War Museum is also a great place for our history buffs to visit, with take guests from pre-1914 to the 1919 signing of the Treaty of Versailles.
Another local favourite is hiking Mount Victoria. Although uphill, we promise that the view from the peak is the most breathtaking in the city. Marvel at the panoramic seaward facing views as ferries zip in and out of the bustling harbour. Not a fan of hikes? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Take a rental car up to the peak, and admire the beauty of Wellington Harbour, albeit less out of breath.
Stomach growling? Before heading back to Wellington Airport, be sure to take a rental car down to check out the local cuisine in the city centre. Wellington Chocolate Factory is most definitely a favourite. It offers the entire bean to bar experience and then more, as you sample their organic, ethically sourced chocolate with a frothy mug of hot chocolate. Heaven, anyone?
Wellington, New Zealand’s southernmost gem is chockful of food, fun and nature. We highly recommend planning a road trip there, because you definitely wouldn’t want to miss out!
