Schmap.com supports the following browsers:
PC
 Archives New Zealand |
10 Mulgrave Street Thorndon Wellington, New Zealand 6144 New Zealand +64 4 499 5595 http://www.archives.govt.nz reference@archives.govt.nz |
As the storehouse of New Zealand's records, the National Archives are a treasure trove of government records and her early history. View the Treaty of Waitangi, access early maps and plans (The archives hold the largest cartographic collection in New Zealand. They store over 300,000 maps, plans and blueprints - the earliest dating from 1839), artworks and photographs. There is always an exhibition being held on an aspect of New Zealand's history. Delve into the past to get a glimpse of some of the things that made us what we are. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Charming 19th century street |
Thorndon Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 802 4860 (Visitor Information Centre) |
In the heart of historic Thorndon, Ascot Street is a delightful, if solitary, remnant of the charm of early Wellington before the construction of the motorway cut a swathe through the northern suburbs. In the style of many of Wellington's early streets, a narrow entrance gives way to a pedestrian lane providing access to a delightful settlement of 19th century houses clinging to the surrounding hillsides. A detour here is not to be missed at any cost. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Religious residence |
Mulgrave Street Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 802 4860 (Visitor Information Centre) |
Conveniently located not far from Old St Paul's Church, this was the residence built for the Anglican Bishop Hadfield and is now, appropriately enough, the headquarters of the Anglican Church in New Zealand. The original timber house of 1860 was replaced in 1879 with the current classical design of architect W. C. Chatfield - this is one of the few remaining examples of his work. The house is in fact built almost entirely of heart totara, a New Zealand native and is an imposing presence amongst the neighbouring office blocks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Historic cemetery |
Bolton Street off Bowen Street Wellington 6005 New Zealand +64 4 802 4860 (Visitor Information Centre) cemeteries@wcc.govt.nz |
Wellington's northern motorway, which cut a swathe through old Thorndon when it was built, also divided the historic Bolton Street cemetery and necessitated the disinterment of an astounding 3,693 graves. Despite the constant passage of traffic close by, the cemetery is a peaceful oasis of green amidst the city's bustle and is a popular spot for lunching workers on fine days. Not in the least macabre, it is also a fascinating way to spend a few hours uncovering the lives and destinies of a generation of early European settlers and their families. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
|
25 hectares of public gardens |
Tinakori Road Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 499 1400 http://www.wellington.govt.nz/... treehouse@wcc.govt.nz |
Established in 1868 and covering 25 hectares of hill terrain between Kelburn and the city, Wellington's botanic gardens are magnificent in all seasons. The Lady Norwood rose gardens (1950) have established a national reputation and boast 106 formal beds with a mix of old favourites and more modern varieties. Other features include a begonia house, herb garden, duck pond, a number of commissioned sculptures, the Treehouse Visitor and Education Centre, a cafe and the peace flame garden commemorating the atomic holocaust at Hiroshima. The soundshell is often used as the venue for summer shows. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nicole Braun  |
 Photo: Steven Champeon |
 Photo: Mark H Berger |
 Photo: Emily Walker |
 Photo: Nicole Braun |
 Photo: Valerie Griffeth |
 Photo: Steven Champeon |
 Photo: Dean Pemberton |
 Photo: Aoife Kavanagh |
 Photo: Susan Kelley |
 Photo: Damien Sellier |
 Photo: aworldinside |
 Photo: Alan Shuttles |
 Photo: Gabriel Salas |
 Photo: Mike Mallett |
 Photo: Ben Corner |
 Photo: Frances Vinall |
 Photo: Andre Goble |
 Photo: Peter Monk |
|
Home of the stars! |
40 Salamanca Road Kelburn Wellington 6005 New Zealand +64 4 472 8167 http://www.carterobs.ac.nz astronomy@carterobs.ac.nz |
Home to the stars, Wellington's Carter Observatory is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. A feature of your visit is a chance to view the night sky through the historic 23 centimetre refracting telescope, weather permitting. The planetarium also offers the opportunity to learn more about the universe with a wide range of programmes, exhibitions, seminars and shows on offer. Evening sessions generally include a combination of all these activities and the original interactive star shows will appeal to all ages. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gillian Rodgers |
 Photo: Gary Korhonen |
 Photo: Sean Watts |
 Photo: Sally Britnell |
 Photo: Gary Korhonen |
 Photo: Katie Weller |
|
Takes you to the top ten attractions |
City Centre Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 801 7000 (Public transport information) |
This distinctive yellow double decker bus stops at the city's ten top spots. For a NZD2 fare you can do the circuit and get a feel for the town's layout and attractions. Then decide which downtown highlight you will start with -Te Papa, Kirkcaldie's, the Cable Car, or maybe Parliament Buildings. Buses leave every 10 minutes from the Railway Station. They then head down to Customhouse and Jervois Quay to the top of Oriental Parade. The return trip takes you along Courtenay Place and down the shopping mile, Lambton Quay. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
|
Inner city scene |
Civic Square Jervois Quay Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 802 4860 (Visitor Information Centre) |
The eye-catching city to sea bridge is, as the name suggests, the link between the heart of the city and the nearby waterfront. Architecturally designed, the construction reflects the city's heritage and historic links with the sea. New and intriguing vistas await discovery on each return visit and from the many different vantage points afforded by the design of the bridge. Particularly stunning are the evening reflections, of the large copper globe above the square, in the windows of the council buildings. Note also the distinctive Nikau palms adorning the exterior of the public library. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: caroline mastreani |
 Photo: Deborah Gordon |
 Photo: Bente Ringlund |
 Photo: Lyndon Ang |
 Photo: Meredith Biberstein |
 Photo: Robin Young |
|
Magnet for tourists |
Bordered by Wakefield Street, Mercer Street, Victoria Street and Aotea Quay Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 802 4860 (Tourist Information Centre) |
This splendid open space, used regularly for recreation and entertainment, is a tribute to the city's town planners, architects and artists. Combining terracotta tiles, trees and water features and bounded by interesting places such as the City to Sea Bridge, the City Gallery, and Central Library it is a natural draw card for visitors. Look out for the suspended spherical fern sculpture by Neil Dawson and the wonderful nikau palms by Ian Athfield. Amid the sculptures and waterfalls there are of course places to quietly sit and eat lunch. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alyssa Umsawasdi |
 Photo: Keith Miller |
 Photo: Nathan Anderson |
 Photo: Phillip Hutchings |
 Photo: Persephone Giddens |
 Photo: Christoph Buente |
 Photo: Graeme Basire |
 Photo: Lisa Wilde |
 Photo: David Loong |
 Photo: Philip C. Claassen |
 Photo: Michelle Harrison |
 Photo: Henry Maddocks |
 Photo: Anna Phillips |
|
Head to crazy Cuba on a Sunday |
Access from Wakefield Street and Web Street Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 25 660 4848 (Mobile) / +64 4 802 4860 (Tourist Information Centre) http://www.cuba.co.nz/ internet@cuba.co.nz |
This is downtown's creative quarter with its eclectic array of old and new shops, galleries, restaurants, bars and cafes and slightly rundown aura. It is named after the New Zealand Company ship Cuba that arrived with some of the areas first settlers in 1840. A part of the street has been closed off to cars and provides a pleasant place to amble or take coffee al fresco. The kids will like it here too - there is a small children's playground and the beloved bucket fountain that could splatter those getting too close anytime. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gary Korhonen |
 Photo: Brenda Wallace |
 Photo: Andrew Ecclestone |
 Photo: Seth Daire |
 Photo: www.miteymiss.com |
 Photo: Kacey Lizon |
|
The best vantage in town |
Shed 1, Queens Wharf PO Box 1550 Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 472 1550 / +64 27 274 6262 (mobile) http://www.helipro.co.nz helipro.qw@xtra.co.nz |
From a helipad on the beautiful harbour you can take a helicopter scenic tour of the city and region. Get a 360 degree view from the best vantage point in town-1,500 feet in the air. Take an exciting 10, 15 or 30 minute tour or arrange to get to the action adventure of your choice. Helipro has reciprocal arrangements with kayaking, golf, horse riding, mountain biking and hiking organisations. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: hindesite |
|
Birthplace of acclaimed New Zealand writer |
25 Tinakori Road Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 473 7268 http://www.katherinemansfield.... |
Early New Zealand writer Katherine Mansfield was born in this elegant, inner-city Victorian townhouse in 1888. She spent her first five years in and around the local area, which would later provide the inspiration for many of her celebrated stories. Her home has now been lovingly and faithfully restored with the help of period furniture and replica wallpaper. A marvellous 50-minute video provides an intimate picture of the writer's early life. The fragrant heritage garden is also worth enjoying on a fine day. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David Leverton |
|
Largest lake in the area |
Featherston Wellington 5952 New Zealand +64 6 308 8051 (Wairarapa Visitor Centre Featherston) http://www.wairarapanz.com/ info@wairarapanz.com |
Lake Wairarapa spreads over 70 square kilometres from the eastern side of the Rimutaka Ranges. It is relatively shallow, with an average depth of little over a metre. Canoeing, sailing, windsurfing and duck hunting (in season) are some of the many popular pastimes enjoyed on the lake. With plenty of campsites, picnic spots and wildlife reserve land to explore, this lake is worth the one and a half hour's travel. Better still stay a few nights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Popular scenic high point |
Alexandra Lookout Road Mount Victoria Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 802 4860 (Visitor Information Centre) |
The high point on Wellington's Southern Walkway, Mount Victoria, easily accessible by foot or vehicle, is undoubtedly the capital city's favourite lookout. Popular with the tourists for its spectacular bird's-eye view of the city and surrounds, the site is also appealing to locals. On warm summer evenings there is nowhere better to enjoy your fish and chips than with a glass of red wine and a view of the setting sun as it descends behind the surrounding hills. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mike Harre |
 Photo: Ken Stewart |
 Photo: Olli Siebelt |
 Photo: Michael Napoleon |
 Photo: Jonzer The Mighty |
 Photo: Kirsten Lowe |
 Photo: rendy phu |
 Photo: kateuk |
 Photo: Tara Stevens |
 Photo: Bill Marciante |
 Photo: Richie Spearin |
 Photo: Paul Upham |
 Photo: Pete Criddle |
 Photo: J&M Woodthorpe-Smith |
 Photo: James Moss |
 Photo: adze45 |
 Photo: Javier Riveros |
 Collection of cricket artefacts |
Downtown Wellington Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 385 6602 http://www.nzmuseums.co.nz/Mus... national.cricket.museum@paradise.net.nz |
Housed in the Old Stand (built 1924) at the Basin Reserve, once the player's dressing room and tearooms, the museum is devoted to charting the development of New Zealand cricket in the last century. The collection chronicles from a time when underarm bowling was standard to present day. View a curved cricket bat dating from 1743 (the only one in the southern hemisphere) or a working cricket ball made out of red cross parcels used by New Zealand prisons-of-war. Admission: Adults NZD5; children (without an adult) NZD2, (with an adult) free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Gothic-style wooden church |
Mulgrave Street Thorndon Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 473 6722 http://www.historic.org.nz/ oldstpauls@historic.org.nz |
Old St Paul's is a gem among churches and a welcome oasis amidst the bustle of the inner city. This early English Gothic-style church was built in 1866 as the Parish Church of Thorndon and served as the city's cathedral until the construction of its more modern successor. Built of native timbers, and boasting exquisite stained glass windows, it is one of the finest of its type in the country. Look carefully at the image of the Virgin Mary at the altar—rumour has it that it weeps real tears! Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kevan J. Williams |
 Photo: Sara Newrick |
 Photo: Sandra Winarta |
|
Seat of Government |
Corner of Molesworth Street and Lambton Quay Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 471 9999 http://www.parliament.govt.nz/ parlinfo@parliament.govt.nz |
The Parliament Buildings—the Edwardian neo-classical Parliament House, gothic Parliamentary Library and contemporary Beehive—are toured by more than a million visitors each year. Explore history here! The debating chamber has seen its share of controversy—in 1893 New Zealand became the first country in the world to grant women the vote. Ghost stories exist too. It is rumoured, an early Member of Parliament, William Larnach, haunts the corridors of the magnificent Gothic library complex (1897)in which he shot himself. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Richard Scott Souder |
 Photo: Nicole Ashley |
 Photo: John Lewis |
 Photo: Dan Nelson |
 Photo: T F Henriksen |
 Photo: David Curlewis |
 Photo: Brandon Jones |
 Photo: Tom Rataj |
 Photo: The Chosun Bimbo |
 Photo: dean_b_2 |
 Photo: Cynthia Wu |
|
Famous settler remembered |
Willis Street end of Lambton Quay Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 802 4860 (Tourist Information Centre) |
These steps link Lambton Quay and Boulcott Street. The name commemorates local entrepreneur John Plimmer who arrived in 1841. One of his early business coups was the purchase of the wreck "Inconstant" that he beached on the foreshore and converted into a wharf warehouse. The remains of the boat were dug up during the restoration of the Old Bank Arcade (see the small display in the arcade's basement). The steps, recognisable by a life size bronze of Plimmer and his dog at the base, are lined by shops including a florist and New Zealand designer shoemaker Minnie Cooper. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kenneth McDonnell |
 Photo: pyed_p1per |
|
Prime Minister's residence |
260 Tinakori Road Thorndon Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 802 4860 (Visitor Information Centre) http://www.primeminister.govt.... |
This is, arguably, one of the country's premier historic places! The substantial townhouse began as a humble cottage for a local merchant in 1843 and after several additions, was sold to the crown in 1865 for use as the Premier's residence. In 1935 it was converted for use as a dental surgery and gradually fell into disrepair before being restored in 1990 to mark New Zealand's 150th anniversary. Once again home to the Prime Minister, it can only be viewed from the exterior or by invitation. Occasional open days have been held. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Phillip Capper |
 Big hillside church |
30 Hill Street Thorndon Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 496 1700 |
Church and state make easy partners in Thorndon with the basilica situated high up on the hill (in Hill Street) above the Government buildings. Out of sight of the main street this large modern church is popular for weddings and other special occasions with its wide sweeping front entrance and courtyard. The modern stained glass windows are a feature, as are the excellent acoustics in the high roofed main church. A catholic information centre is attached to the basilica. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
|
1850s cottage |
26 Bolton Street Wellington 6005 New Zealand +64 4 802 4860 (Visitor Information Centre) |
This is, in fact, one of the oldest houses left in Wellington and is a fine example of an 1850s cottage with many of its original features remaining in good condition, having been thoroughly restored in 1978. Note in particular, the steep porch over the main entrance. The house is a typical colonial timber construction with lovely double-hung windows and a steep pitched roof. It should be visited in conjunction with the neighbouring replica of the original mortuary chapel that is open to the public. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Religious ties |
Corner of Willis and Dixon Streets Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 385 1546 http://www.stjohnsinthecity.or... enquiries@stjohnsinthecity.org.nz |
Only the verandah of this wee charmer is new, though in the course of its life, the house has been moved twice to make way for surrounding developments. The cottage was built between 1858 and 1863 on a large section neighbouring the St John's Church, and is typical of the design of its era. The first owner was William Spinks, a settler storekeeper whose family later used it as a school as well as a home. After Spinks' death, it was sold to the church. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Landmark church |
Corner of Willis & Ghuznee Streets Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 382 8486 http://stpeters.wellington.net... stpeters.wgtn@clear.net.nz |
Motorists arriving in Wellington cannot miss this picturesque central city church. On a corner site at the intersection of the motorway and two busy main streets (Ghuznee and Willis) St Peter's stands out among the other central city buildings. It was designed by Thomas Turnbull entirely of native timbers and features a striking bell tower, a distinctive Turnbull trademark. With its elegant stained glass windows and attractive main entrance it is worth seeking out by those with an interest in things religious or architectural. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nick Lloyd |
 Photo: Ari Bakker |
|
Inner-city sanctuary |
30 The Terrace Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 472 9211 (Office) http://www.standrews.org.nz/ office@standrews.org.nz |
Wedged into the hillside and in a row of similarly aged establishments, right in the heart of the central business district, you will find St Andrew's on the Terrace. An early neo-gothic style church constructed of reinforced concrete, St Andrew's is an integral part of the inner-city community. It offers many rooms for meetings and community group use, and often hosts lunchtime concerts (many of them free of charge), public meetings and lectures on various subjects given by visiting speakers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: km.charlton |
 Photo: Piet Vermeulen |
|
Secluded church in an urban setting |
Corner Willis & Dixon Streets Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 385 1546 http://www.stjohnsinthecity.or... enquiries@stjohnsinthecity.org.nz |
Sprawling over a hilltop site above Willis street is St. John's in the City. Constructed from native timbers in the Turnbull style (see the Alexander Turnbull Library on The Terrace), St. John's is hidden from the main street by mature trees on its large site. Named St. John's in the City to reflect its changing parish, (one of the earliest churches in Wellington, built in the 1850s) St. John's recent refurbishment reflects that transition. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
|
Walker's delight |
St Mary Street Thorndon Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 802 4860 (Visitor Information Centre) |
Tinakori Hill is a familiar backdrop for the city and its maze of interweaving tracks is popular with lunchtime joggers. There are plenty of entrance options but if you follow the marked track from St Mary Street, you will emerge from pine plantation and native bush to a stunning and unique view of the city from the north. An ideal spot to appreciate the city and the enormity of recent constructions like the Stadium and Te Papa, Museum of New Zealand. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Emily Walker |
|
Exhibition space |
11 Bowen Street Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 473 1737 http://www.doc.govt.nz/Explore... turnbullhouse@doc.govt.nz |
Built in 1916, this was the home of Alexander Turnbull whose extensive collection of books (one of the finest in the South Pacific) was bequeathed to the Crown and is now housed in the National Library. The house is a magnificent brick design with a marvellous symmetry. It was initially designed as two separate but connecting entities - one half for the book collection and one to house Mr Turnbull and his servants. The house is now used as an exhibition space, has its own cafe and catering service, and can be hired for functions, including weddings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jonathan Ah Kit |
 Photo: allison j. sebastian |
|
New Zealand's largest cathedral |
Corner Hill and Molesworth Streets Thorndon Wellington 6001 New Zealand +64 4 472 0286 http://cathedral.wellington.ne... cathedral@paradise.net.nz |
Sixty one years went into it's design and building to create one of the largest and most spectacular spaces in New Zealand. Commissioned in the early 1930s it was to be a gothic structure from stone or brick but, after the Napier earthquake, the decision was made to build the cathedral out of reinforced concrete. Cecil Wood the original architect died before the drawings were complete. Successive architects attempted to deviate from his original vision, to disastrous effect. In 1992 architects, Warren and Mahoney, completed the cathedral design staying faithful to Wood's original vision. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Law |
 Photo: Peter Harper |
 Photo: Charles Lee |