Car Rental Wellington Airport
You’ll likely be excited to visit the island nation of New Zealand. A country that many only visit once in their lifetime, New Zealand is full of history, culture, and beautiful scenery. Wellington Airport will be the start of your vacation, so it’s great that you’ve thought ahead and booked your car hire from Dollar ahead of landing.
Wellington is central to the country of New Zealand and its capital. Situated in the south of the North Island, it’s the perfect gateway to both islands: simply drive up north or take your rental on the ferry to head to the south.
However you choose to spend your time here in Wellington, it is surely going to be a fantastic vacation. Bring your sense of adventure and an eagerness to learn and discover; that’s truly what a vacation in Wellington will look like.
The Culture of Wellington
Once dubbed as the ‘coolest little capital’ by the Lonely Planet, Wellington is a city that has captured the hearts of many. With only 4.5 million people, it’s not the busiest of cities, but it’s one that you’ll remember for a long time.
There are many museums in Wellington. The Museum of Wellington & Sea was voted one of the world’s top fifty museums. It tells the story of this magical city through 100 objects of sources and significance, from history to technology, local people, and media - there are a hundred stories to be discovered here.
Similarly, Te Papa Tongarewa has been listed as one of Lonely Planet’s top 500 places on earth. Te Papa is Māori for a container of treasures. It uses a ‘bicultural’ approach to both the organisation and curation of the museum. Representing two world views of Tangata Whenua, meaning the first people of the land, and Tangata Tiriti, meaning the people living in New Zealand by right of the treaty.
Te Papa is free to enter and is open every single day of the year except Christmas day. We would always recommend a visit to this six-storey museum.
Road trips from Wellington
A hidden treasure except for those local to Wellington, Matiu, or Somes Island is a scientific and historic reserve. It sits in the heart of the Wellington Harbour and is an educational tourist attraction for those looking to learn more about the flora and fauna of the region. It’s rich in both Māori and cultural history and is the perfect day trip for those wanting a break from the city life of Wellington.
While on the island, make sure to walk the Island Loop Track, which is a 40-minute hike. This track offers 360-degree views of Wellington Harbour and is a stunning way to get a new perspective on this city. To get to Somes Island, simply take one of the scheduled ferries from Queen’s wharf.
For those that love hikes, head to Paekakariki, which is on the west coast of the Wellington region. Less than an hour’s drive from the city, Paekakariki is a natural and untouched beauty. Hiking lovers should try the Paekakariki Escarpment Track: it’ll take you around three to four hours to get to the top, but you’ll be rewarded with sensational coastal views.
Wellington is a remarkable city that has captured the hearts of all who visit. From the rugged beauty of the region to the hustle and bustle of the main streets, Wellington has something for any visitor. Make sure to have maximum time exploring while you’re here, with Dollar.