Take flights to Wellington and you’ll touchdown in the Land of the Long White Cloud. There aren’t many cities in the region that can claim to be as eclectic as Wellington. Welly, New Zealand’s capital, may have a relatively small population, but the locals – and visitors – are spoilt for choice with an astounding number of quality restaurants, cafés, bars, shops, galleries and theatres. The European and Maori cultures, both with rich histories and cultural heritage, provide plenty of points of interest. In downtown Wellington, the Te Aro Pa visitor centre houses remnants of an ancient Māori village that dates back to the mid-1800s, discovered in 2005 during construction of apartments. Activity-wise, why not go stargazing at the amazing planetarium show at Carter Observatory? Wellington is home to the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, the Royal New Zealand Ballet Company, the Wellington City Opera, multiple cinema complexes and several professional theatres.
When you’ve recovered from your direct flights to Wellington, make some time for the historic cable car ride to the Botanic Garden. Peruse the National Museum of NZ - Te Papa on the waterfront and take in some of Wellington’s best views at the Mount Victoria Lookout. The panorama will leave you feeling that whatever you paid for that Wellington flight, it was a bargain. While the bustling streets and gorgeous harbour attract people by day, the city, also known as Wellywood, has a lively nightlife. Whether you like fast-paced clubs, low-key pubs or local, live music, there is always something going on around the city. As far as sports go, rugby is a religion in New Zealand. Visit the Westpac Stadium to experience the thrill of a big game. With cheap return flights to Wellington highlighted here, you’ll soon realise why it’s New Zealand’s self-proclaimed Capital of Cool.