City Guide: Wellington, New Zealand

The harbour city of Wellington comes to life at night. Photo: Aidan Wojtas/Flickr.com

Why go?

As New Zealand's capital, Wellington, buzzes with trendy boutiques, bars and cafes, perfect for a girls' getaway or a romantic mini-break. Explore the city by foot, or take a relaxing daytrip out to the surrounding rural attractions.

Stay at

Holiday Inn, right in the heart of the shopping and dining districts and within minutes of the harbour foreshore. The rooms are modern and offer great value (starting from $125 per night). While you're there, be sure to experience the Plate Restaurant & Bar – it offers fresh modern cuisine, with a dash of Latin flair.

Eat at

Logan Brown for a true fine-dining experience. Trendy Cuba Street is synonymous with mouth-watering delights: for a laidback brunch head to either Fidel's or Floriditas, and after dark, locals love Motel, with its quirky, cool vibe, and Matterhorn.

Shop at

The Cuba Quarter for a local and international fashion fix and to discover the region's up-and-coming designers. Or, rummage through the treasure-trove of vintage designer buys (including labels such as Giorgio Armani, Burberry, Zambesi and Karen Walker) at Soup (situated at 8 Blair Street).

Explore

The blossoming food, wine and coffee scene with Zest Food Tours. Or, you can take in the Martinborough region, 90 minutes north of Wellington, on the Wairarapa Gourmet Wine Escape. For tailor-made tour packages in and around the city, contact Wellington Rover Tours.

Travel tips

Air New Zealand flies to Wellington from all Australian capital cities, with return airfare prices starting from $414 (excluding taxes) from Sydney. For more, visit the Air New Zealand website.