North Island Natural Environment

Wellington is a cool place if the weather's right. No matter what time of year come prepared for four seasons. Check out the City Gallery in Civic Sqaure, it's free, as is Te Papa, the national museum. There's the Fine Art's Gallery near Queen's Warf (donation), sometimes it's worth a visit. Cable Car is very popular with toursists (and no you won't crash). Cuba Street is supposedly vibe-ish. Check out the beaches, Oriental, Lyall Bay, Eastborne. But it's also nice to get out of the city as it's only a short drive in any direction to get a taste of rural scenery, Waikane is nice. Most people only go to Wellington to travel through to the South Island on the Picton Ferry but it's worth a short stop to have a look around. The nice thing about Wellington is the way most of the surrounding suberbs work into the landscape, old victorian-style houses dotted on the hills. But the best sight in Wellington is the Katherine Mansfield birthplace for the literary, cultural tourist. Have a read of some of her stories before you go, like 'Prelude', 'The Wind Blows,' 'At the Bay' (set in Eastbourne) to put the place and the house in perspective. Enjoy!!

Take clothes for all weathers - can be 4 seasons in one day!

Always bring clothing of all seasons.You can never predict the weather.

Bring warm clothing. Wellington is an insanely cold place.

Ask a local where the hot stream into the waikato river is and take a dip, siting yourself at the best temperature for you... further into the mouth of the stream or further into the river.