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Wellington is the political, cultural and culinary capital of Aotearoa as the Māori call New Zealand. The compact city spills out of the mountains and overlooks Cook Strait.

In the world's southernmost capital fresh ocean winds seem to bring in waves of creativity. Civic Square is an eclectic mix of artworks and houses the elegant Town Hall, while Cuba Street is the place to go for shopping. The waterfront is dotted with craft beer bars and restaurants.

The country's cultural heritage is explained in the beloved Te Papa National Museum. Other good museums in Wellington are the Carter Observatory and the Museum of Wellington City and Sea. On the Miramar Peninsula, the Weta Workshop shows paraphernalia of famous Sir Peter Jackson movies, including Lord of the Rings and King Kong.

In Wellington's city center stand the neoclassical Parliament House and it executive wing, called the Beehive. From Lambton Quay, the iconic Wellington Cable Car leads to the Botanic Garden. Shuttle buses drop visitors off at Zealandia, a reserve for the region's unique flora and fauna.

Kia ora! Let Wellington be your stepping stone to both the North Island and the South Island of New Zealand.