As far as spread of attractions and entertainment options, Wellington is about the best city in New Zealand for the enjoyment factor. It is beautifully laid out, with busy city thoroughfares, a delectable waterfront and lush hills all within the city, making it an ideal destination for walkers.
The capital of New Zealand is a fantastic city to spend time in. It has bags of character and allure, with distinct districts going from the hills to the sea to downtown, and it also boasts many classy museums and landmarks.
Unlike Auckland, Wellington is compact and easy to navigate for shoppers and there area all kinds of shopping options, from top-end designer gear and crafts to secondhand goods. There are also some excellent markets in Wellington and it is fun to shop any time of year.
Wellington has a huge number of snack bars, cafés, coffee shops, restaurants and food courts per head, and the best thing is that most of it is all within the city center. You can get everything from traditional Maori fare and the best New Zealand venison and lamb, to top quality seafood and a variety of ethnic cuisines.
The New Zealand capital is in-keeping with most of the rest of the country, in that it is safe and has little in the way of violent crime. Petty theft will always be a worry no matter where you go and bear in mind that New Zealand's summers and winters are switched with those of the northern hemisphere.
The New Zealand capital has a wealth of heritage preserved in its ancient buildings and streets, more so than any other city in the country. A combination of its setting on a hillside overlooking the water and profusion of high profile government buildings and museums has led to this status.