Voted by Lonely Planet as one of the best capital cities in the world, Wellington lives up to its reputation. While most capital cities are set apart from the social scene and consist primarily of monuments, politicians and monuments of politicians, Wellington has managed to capture the inviting spirit and culture of New Zealand and turn its political engine into a thriving and interesting city.
There is something in Wellington for everyone. For the historian and cultural enthusiast, make sure you visit the Te Papa Museum and the Museum of Wellington. Here you will be taken on an historical journey through the development of the country’s indigenous culture and modern infrastructure. Walk up to the Cable Car Museum and look around the sculptures and colourful gardens that surround it, before taking the old cable ride back down the hill.
Which leads to dining. While Wellington may be a business capital, by no means do the lights go out at 5pm. Everyone, from backpackers on a budget to those with a taste for fine dining will be satisfied with the selection in Wellington. The most central place to be is around Courtenay Place and Cuba Street, where award-winning restaurants of all tastes and popular bars of all standards combine to offer a fine dining experience, or a good old-fashioned wild night out.
And finally, the adventurer. In a country renowned for its adventure spirit, the very city representing it to the world could not be without adventure. Take on the high ropes courses at Adrenaline Forrest, jump into a 4WD army truck to see the Wellington wilderness, raft, canoe, tube or kayak down a river, or take an air balloon ride out of the city and over the magnificent landscape that surrounds it. Oh, and don’t forget the “Bungy Extreme”. This one straps up to three people in a capsule that is flung 55km into the air at 5gs with two bungy ropes. After all, what self-respecting New Zealand city wouldn’t offer a bungy jump of some description?
http://www.wellingtonnz.com/sights_activities/bungy_extreme_wellington