In our ‘Complete Guide’ series, we’re going to be visiting some of New Zealand’s most popular tourist destinations and getting the inside track from our GO Explore followers on the best places to stay, eat, drink, sunbathe and more. Instead of just finding out what the guidebooks tell you, find out what the locals and the travellers think when it comes to the best place to get an ice cream, the best fish and chips and the best cocktail you’ll ever taste!

For those of you who might not know, Wellington is New Zealand’s capital city and is located at the southern tip of the North Island. It’s one of the world’s smallest capital cities but don’t let that fool you – it’s also one of the coolest. With a vibrant night scene, some amazing beaches and some of New Zealand’s finest restaurants, Wellington is a ‘must visit’ place on any tour of New Zealand. It’s also home to the rather cool Beehive building where New Zealand’s parliament sit as well as New Zealand’s most popular museum, Te Papa. Oh yeah, and if you’re into movies, then Wellington is also the home of New Zealand’s film industry and the Weta Workshop has been involved in the creation of some of the world’s biggest movies including the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies, Thunderbirds and Chappie. If that hasn’t got you excited, keep on reading for more great tips on things to do in our lovely little capital – let’s GO!

Best accommodation in Wellington

New Zealand’s capital city is not short on places to stay whether you are looking for five star luxury or something a bit less extravagant. Most people visiting Wellington are looking for hotels in the main CBD – from here you can easily access the majority of Wellington’s main attractions and this puts you right in the heart of the city whether you are looking for a big night out or you want to explore the beautiful city beaches. We have chucked in a couple of cracking little places that are located in and around Wellington in case you are looking for something a little bit more relaxed. Here are our top tips for places to stay in Wellington thanks to our GO Explorers!

Best places to eat out in Wellington

Auckland is often thought of as New Zealand’s best place to eat out but we reckon Wellington is right up there. We may not have as many celebrity chefs down here in the capital but what we lack in celebrity, we more than make up for in superb local produce. Wellington is like no other place in New Zealand when it comes to access to some of the country’s finest produce. Most of the capital’s best restaurants pride themselves on serving up locally sourced dishes that are inspired by the seasons – that’s what keeps things special and the ever-changing menus mean no two trips to the capital are the same. Here are some of our GO Explorer favourites.

Best beaches in Wellington

Wellington and the surrounding area is spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches. It’s not always something you associate with the capital but don’t underestimate the beauty of the beaches in Wellington – they’ve got some of the best in New Zealand. Whether it’s taking a stroll to Oriental Bay or perhaps taking a drive further afield to the Kapiti Coast, there’s definitely something for all beach lovers in Wellington. Here are our favourites:

Rent the perfect car for your adventure

Recommended vehicle for exploring Wellington

TESLA MODEL 3

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Explore Wellington in comfort and style in the brand new Tesla Model 3 – our first all-electric rental car in the GO Rentals fleet.

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    Wellington to Auckland – 4 days

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  • 5
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    Wellington to Tongariro Round Trip – 5 days

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  • 10
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    Nelson to Auckland – 10 days

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