Wellington

The capital city of New Zealand is distinguished by its rolling hills and ferocious winds.

Settled around Wellington Harbour, the city has a vibrant arts scene and is home to the Royal New Zealand Ballet, the Symphony Orchestra and New Zealand Opera. The national museum, Te Papa, is also an essential visit for a glimpse at some of New Zealand’s taonga (treasures).

For a piece of bohemian, check out the spirited pedestrian mall on Cuba Street with cafes, bars; clothing and book shops.

Further restaurants can be found at the city’s premier entertainment spot on Courtney Place with vibrancy around the clock.

Ten minutes from the CBD, Karori Wildlife Sanctuary offers some magnificent walks and a glimpse at some native wildlife the way it was ‘the day before humans arrived’.

North of the city, Porirua is nestled in a stunning harbour setting, and its natural environment offers expansive views of the Tasman Sea and Mana Island.

In Levin, visit the beautiful coastal dune lakes, where a native tree-planting programme is under way to return the area to its pre-European state.

Source: AA Travel

Photo: "Wellington City"