The “coolest little capital in the world” has hit the headlines of late thanks to the proposed “Wellywood” sign by the airport, so let’s check out whether New Zealand’s capital warrants those column inches…
Wellington International Airport in Rongotai on New Zealand’s North Island caused outrage with its plans for a 12-foot high “Wellywood” sign on the hillside, which was meant to be a celebration of the country’s flourishing film industry. A few weeks ago, chief executive at the airport, Steve Fitzgerald, said, “The sign is definitely going ahead. I expect widespread support for the intent of a sign, even if a Wellywood sign isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Everyone benefits from increasing tourism for Wellington.”
However, he’s now changed his tune following strong opposition from locals and has halted work on the sign, saying, “The company has listened to community views and is keen to act in the best interest of Wellington,”
So, back to what really makes Wellington tick. Long the quiet cousin to bigger, brasher Auckland, Wellington has come of age over the past few years and is now a buzzing capital city. Bursting with cool cafés serving up some of the best coffee in New Zealand – Wellington locals like to think it’s the best in the world – stylish restaurants, art galleries and the fabulous national museum Te Papa, the Kiwi capital’s a great place for a holiday.
Lying at the at the southwestern tip of the North Island between Cook Strait and the Rimutaka Range, Wellington owes its names to the first Duke of Wellington and victor of the Battle of Waterloo, Arthur Wellesley. It’s tourist numbers may now be booming, but that wasn’t always the case – the city was often bypassed by visitors lured to Oz, Fiji and Auckland.
Now, Wellington is getting its own back, with a solid reputation as an arts and culture hub, playing host to some of the biggest events on the NZ social calendar, including the New Zealand International Arts Festival and the Cuba Street Carnival.
The city’s buildings – some of which have been compared to San Francisco – sit comfortably against a breathtaking backdrop of wild natural beauty that has been likened to the wilds of Tasmania. While Wellington may look serene on the surface, it’s home to a pulsing energy – some world class educational institutions call the city home, along with the New Zealand Government’s headquarters, the Beehive.
The Wellywood sign was a nod to NZ’s burgeoning film industry, and Wellington has spawned arguably its most famous film face – director of Lord of the Rings and King Kong, Peter Jackson. It’s also home to Cheapflights’ much loved Flight of the Conchords comedy duo – Jermaine Clement and Bret McKenzie.
If you fancy a night out on the town, head to Courtenay Place in the Courtenay Quarter for some of the liveliest bars and eateries. The Cuba Quarter is also good fun, with a vast number of restaurants, cafés and bars to choose from.
Those fancying some serious retail therapy should be sure to check out Lambton Quarter, centred around Lambton Quay, one of the city’s most popular shopping streets.
It’s also worth taking a walk along the Waterfront District from Whitmore Street to Oriental Parade to see some of Wellington’s highlights, including the Museum of Wellington City and Sea, Frank Kitts Park and Te Papa Tongarewa Museum and the Wellington Marina.
(Image: Newsbie Pix)
