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Overview
Introduction
Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is located at the southern tip of the North Island. Known as Windy Wellington, it is less-visited than Auckland—410 mi/660 km to the north—and it's a pity that those who do go seldom stay more than a day.
Wellington's waterfront is a true gem and a great starting point for immersing yourself in its arts and culture. It's easy to pass a day strolling the harbor's edge, ducking into museums and admiring the sculptures along the way.
Lord of The Rings fans should pay a visit to Weta Workshop and Weta Cave; tours offer behind-the-scenes insight into the making of Peter Jackson's famous films. Wellington also happens to be a base for various Middle-earth tours, although the scenery on these may not be on the same scale as their South Island counterparts.
Weather in Wellington is famously finicky, but luckily the city buzzes with outstanding bars, cafes and restaurants. Cuba Street and Courtenay Place are the main hubs of entertainment.
Location
Larger cruise ships dock at the Aotea Quay Terminal. The dock is a little more than five minutes from the city center via taxi or shuttle. Walking is not recommended, because it is along a busy road. The port is about 0.5 mi/0.8 km from the train station.
Smaller cruise ships dock in the city center at Queens Wharf.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions taking in Wellington's top sights typically include a mix of natural attractions and architectural landmarks. A trip up Mount Victoria or on the iconic red cable car up Kelburn Hill offers outstanding views over the city. The botanic gardens are an oasis of calm, while the Beehive and Parliament buildings are the beating heart of the country's capital. Tours offered range from food themes to
Lord of the Rings.