The population is considerably smaller than that of Auckland, but it certainly matches the larger city for amenities. The cities cheerful wooden homes are spread over its hilly surrounds, providing some of its residents with superb views over the sheltered harbour and an easily accessible venue for a whole host of outdoor leisure activities.

Good views of the city and harbour are available from the lookout at the top of Mountain Victoria, or from the top cable car terminal. Very much part of the character of the city, the cable car is a must do attraction and links nicely with the Botanic Gardens and the Carter Observatory.

The city of Wellington boasts a number of harbours, scenic views, numerous Wellington tourist attractions, parliamentary landmarks, historic Victoria buildings and a thriving city centre full of shops, hotels and restaurants, which are based around Wellingtons Civic Square.

From a modern city, Wellington is great for shopping and there is a strong cafe culture here as well as many bars and restaurants. The new, interactive museum, Te Papa is a major feature of the city and is located on the waterfront. The museum is testament to the countries very proud heritage, both Maori and European

Wellington is home to the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, the Royal New Zealand Ballet and the National Opera, as well as theatres, ensuring that there is no shortage of culture available at any given time.

Landmarks in the Wellington area include the City to Sea Bridge.

Budget hotels and accommodation options are plentiful in Wellington and are concentrated around the central and the inner suburbs. With many cheap hostels suitable for backpackers, other accommodation options include numerous affordable hotels in Courtney Place, Brougham Street at Mount Victoria, Victoria Street, and the Thorndon and Aro Valley districts, which are all full of impressive, affordable midrange hotels and accommodation, with good facility.

The Wellington area contains a huge array of beaches and Wellingtons popular beaches are all easily accessible, with frequent buses connecting Wellington city centre with many of the cities most stunning beaches, sheltered bays and major surfing locations. Some of the best beaches around Wellington are situated along the Eastbourne coastline area of Wellington, which is full of secluded sandy beaches, speciality shops and street cafes.