PLAN YOUR VISIT
Te Whanganui-a-Tara, Wellington
The World's Coolest Little Capital
Wellington (Te Whanganui-a-Tara) is the capital of New Zealand and seat of government. Wellington is famous for its creative energy, culture, history, nature and cuisine.
The region is known as New Zealand’s cultural heart, with more than 55 art galleries, plus interactive national museum Te Papa Tongarewa and the national orchestra, ballet and opera. The city’s long‑established coffee culture can be experienced on every corner of the compact central city. Wellingtonians are masters of excellent casual dining, with plenty of great restaurants, night markets and food trucks – the city is said to have more eateries per capita than New York. Renowned for its creative craft brewers, Wellington was recently named the best beer destination in Oceania by Lonely Planet. If you need to walk off all that goodness, you’re also in luck. Wellington is a capital city right on nature’s doorstep, with a peaceful walk through native bush or along a golden sand beach never far from the urban hub.
The capital is easily accessed, either by air (there are regular international and domestic flights), inter‑island ferry, train or car. Wellington International Airport is a scenic 10 minute drive from the central business district. Taxis, shuttles and the Airport Flyer bus are all on hand to transfer visitors to the central city.
With a city centre just two kilometres in diameter, Wellington is also seamlessly and cost‑effectively navigated once on the ground. No need to arrange transport – all the facilities you need are within easy walking distance.
Aotearoa, New Zealand
New Zealand’s amazing scenery and friendly people ensure it ranks highly on international ‘must-visit’ lists. Discover diverse, cosmopolitan cities offering fine food and wine, great shopping, and vibrant art and culture. From there, you’re never far from exploring New Zealand’s stunning landscapes, from mountains to mud pools, golden beaches to glacial lakes. Feel the adrenalin rush of New Zealand’s famed adventure activities, from bungy jumping to jet boating, or just soak up the view from a geothermal hot pool or rolling vineyard. Embrace the manaakitanga (warm hospitality) of the local people, engage with the unique Indigenous Māori culture, and enjoy experiences found nowhere else.
New Zealand Visas
We enjoy welcoming visitors to New Zealand and we’d like to think that when you come here, you have an experience to remember—but for the right reasons. So if you’re coming to New Zealand, it’s a good idea to make sure you have everything ready.
When you arrive in New Zealand, you’ll need to be carrying a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date. Many people will qualify for visa‑free entry, but depending on your country of origin, you may need to apply for a visa before you travel. Read more.