36 Hours in Wellington: Things to Do and See

Wellington, the small capital of New Zealand, easily invites comparisons. You might think of San Francisco when you see its soaring streets and colorful clapboard houses; the city's obsession with coffee, craft beer and sustainable living has clear parallels with Seattle; and its windy weather (it's the windiest city in the world) earns it the nickname Chicago. As locals often recall, you can't beat Wellington on a good day, when the water glistens, the sky is impossibly blue and the coastlines, forests and hills are at their most pleasing. Travel between December and March to maximize your chances of a great day out in Te Whanganui-a-Tara, the town's name in the native Maori language (New Zealand is known as Aotearoa).

Recommendations

Key stops

Zealandia is a one-of-a-kind bird sanctuary with over 40 species, many of which are found only in New Zealand. Cuba Street is the goofy heart of the city, with quirky Wellington charm. Te Papa is the national museum, with permanent exhibits on the natural world and history of New Zealand and the Pacific, as well as an extensive collection of New Zealand art.

Restaurants and bars

Mabel's serves authentic and delicious Burmese cuisine, perfect for groups. KC Cafe and Takeaway is a Wellington institution, delivering fast, inexpensive Cantonese and Malay dishes. Damascus is home to the best Syrian cuisine in the city and a great place for vegetarians.