Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city, is fast gaining a reputation as a great place to visit. Here are the top 10 must-dos:

• Get Cultured

As New Zealand’s cultural capital, Wellington offers everything from high drama, classic theatre and galleries to a great local music scene. A strong vein of film production, theatre, visual and performance art runs through the city.

• Caffeinate

Stop to refuel at one of the city’s funky cafés. Wellington boasts more cafés per capita than New York, many of which roast their own coffee. Relax, sip an espresso or latte, and watch the city bustle by.

• Shop ‘til You Drop

Wellington is the ultimate shopping destination. Only 2 kilometres from one end of the centre city to the other, it’s a shopper-hopper’s paradise. Let yourself go wild in the funky stores and designer boutiques that define downtown Wellington.

• Get Interactive

Engage with New Zealand’s culture and history at Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum. Equivalent in size to three rugby fields, this innovative museum features five floors of interactive exhibitions and display spaces.

• Ride the Cable Car

Take a step back in time by riding on one of the city’s most iconic attractions, the Wellington Cable Car. Departing from Lambton Quay, the journey takes you to the Wellington Botanic Garden, where you’ll enjoy stunning views across the city and harbour.

• Tickle Your Taste buds

With over 300 restaurants, cafes and eateries, you’re spoilt for choice in Wellington. Dine out on whatever takes your fancy, from a la carte restaurants to cheap and cheerful take-away outlets.

• Experience the Nightlife

Take part in Wellington’s vibrant nightlife. Check out the party scene in the Courtenay quarter – the entertainment precinct. Or while away an evening in one of Cuba quarter’s trendy bars and music venues.

• Go Natural

Surrounded by hills and a rugged coastline, Wellington’s charm is that it serves up a vibrant inner city experience with a slice of New Zealand scenery. Less than 10 minutes from downtown Wellington find yourself in breathtaking scenic spots such as Karori Sanctuary or Wellington’s rugged South Coast.

• Great Events

Be a part of Wellington’s fantastic events scene. The city plays host to a range of high calibre events, including the biennial New Zealand International Arts Festival. It also hosts the awe-inspiring Montana World of WearableArt Awards Show and the action-packed NZI Sevens.

• Go Regional

Enjoy world-class wineries and spectacular scenery right on Wellington's door step. Drive just over an hour north of Wellington and discover the boutique wine village of Martinborough. Or cruise south on an inter-island ferry, through the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds and explore Marlborough.

by Esme Gibbins - Esme.Gibbins@WellingtonNZ.com

WellingtonNZ.com - The official website for Wellington