I visited Wellington for a few days to catch up with family and friends, but didn’t realise the city planned to woo me as well. I’d forgotten how the city’s emphasis on arts and culture, fun and living, permeates so many aspects of life there. In particular, I was drawn back to the beautiful waterfront time and again, each time appreciating a different aspect of the place where city embraces sea.
I’ll be the first to say it, but most Wellingtonians would admit it… I was unbelievably lucky with the weather during my four days in the city. There was a LOT of sunshine, and not too much wind, the condition the city is (in)famous for. These perfect conditions meant I was in the mood to celebrate as soon as I landed! Luckily my girl Ocean was free and we snagged ourselves beanbags outside St John’s bar in the perfect position to soak in some sun and people-watch to our hearts’ content.
Seriously happy with this situation
Wellington is New Zealand’s capital, also known as “The Coolest Little Capital in the World”. Some claim, huh?! But it is seriously great. Home to just over 500,000, the city nestles in between the hills and the sea. It’s well-known for its windy conditions, but also for its quirky and fun emphasis on arts and culture. I love all the public art and sculpture scattered around the city, and in particular along the waterfront.
So many paths to take and vistas to admire!
Early in the morning, lunchtime or evening, the waterfront is hugely popular. I love how there are so many spaces designed for different uses, whether that be commuting on a bike or strolling in the sun. There were places to stop and read, sculpture to admire, intriguing buildings and loads of cafes and bars along the way. I could have gone paddle-boarding or kayaking, played on the playground (well, I was tempted), shopped at a pop-up market or visited Te Papa, the National Museum. Mostly however, I just wandered along, stopping to read plaques and consider art, taking my time – ideal!
I love this combination of the silver fern emblem with the commemoration of soldiers
According to my brother, this fountain is often the victim of an addition of bubbles!
The massive grey and light brown building is Te Papa – national museum of New Zealand
Anyone for a dip?
If you walk a bit further, away from the city, you might be too busy marvelling at the colourful art-deco cliff-side houses, but you’ll be at Oriental Bay before you know it. The closest beach to the city, it’s the perfect place for a swim if it’s warm enough – yes despite this being a functioning port city, the water is still swimmable! As I was out running, I just took my ease on the golden sands for a few minutes instead and soaked in the gorgeous early morning.
Oriental Bay fountain
The picture-perfect Oriental Bay boat-sheds
To me, this photo sums up Wellington’s waterfront perfectly – there’s the central business district in the middle, the Beehive (part of New Zealand’s parliamentary buildings) tucked away to the right, the beautiful promenade stretching all along from left to right. And in front of it all, the iconic ‘Solace in the Wind’ showing a man leaning into the elements. Just stunning!
Have you visited Wellington? DO you like the look of its waterfront?
For more info on the sculptures along the waterfront, click here.
