Perched on the southern tip of the North Island, New Zealand’s capital is an important center for arts and culture, and a popular stop-off for cruise ships. From CentrePort Wellington, it's easy to explore the treasure-filled Te Papa (Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa), the Zealandia wildlife sanctuary, and more.
Located atop the Wellington Botanic Garden, the Space Place at Carter Observatory is full of interactive exhibits to help visitors young and old learn about our little galaxy. Spend the day exploring the universe. Then at night, look through the observatory’s historic Thomas Cooke telescope and see stars and planets in incredible detail.
Considered the city’s playground, Wellington Outer Green Belt is a strip of undeveloped green land that stretches north along Wellington’s ridgetops. Walking and biking tracks weave through the landscape, which encompasses forests, hills, and the rugged south coastline.
Perched on the banks of the River Hutt, Hutt Valley is home to wildlife reserves, forest parks, historic harborside settlements, and walking and cycling trails, all of which make it a popular weekend escape from Wellington. The valley is home to several Lord of the Rings filming locations and is therefore a magnet for Tolkien fans.
