What about Wellington?
Wellington’s claim to fame is being the world’s southernmost capital city and it’s New Zealand’s cultural capital, but most who aren’t in the know assume Auckland or maybe even Christchurch are the country’s top dogs. They might be bigger in population, but Intrepid’s Oliver Pelling explains why Wellington makes up for it with plenty of local personality…
“Home to an artistic and creative young crowd and all the trendy cafes, bars, laneways, shops and hideouts that they like to hang out in, Wellington is a unique cultural hotspot. Boasting a vibrant cafe culture not dissimilar to the likes of Melbourne or London – though on a markedly smaller scale – this capital city has a buzz about it that resonates within travellers of all ages.
The younger crowd can kick back with a couple of beers in a cosy laneway bar, while those who prefer a more active way of life can take a stroll along the sublime waterfront and watch the boats to and fro across the harbour (and, of course, perhaps sink a couple of drinks with the young ‘uns later in the evening).
A city without pretense or posturing, a few days spent in Wellington are a few days spent well – providing the weather holds out. If the rain does start pouring and the wind kicks up, the Te Papa museum holds an unfathomable amount of incredible exhibits and information regarding the history of New Zealand and the wider world. It might even be worth taking along a notepad to help you remember it all!
Once you’ve overdosed on information in the museum – and perhaps on coffee to help you take it all in – a trip up the Wellington cable car is another Welling-tourist activity to tick off your list. And when you’re all tuckered out from exploring the city by foot, you’re never far away from a homely bar or cafe in which to rest up and unwind!”
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* photo by Lisa Heard – Intrepid Photography Competition
