Wellington Maps

Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, is situated at the southern tip of the North Island. With a population of approximately 214,000 in the city proper and 450,000 in the greater metropolitan area, it stands as the second-largest city in New Zealand. The city is positioned along the Cook Strait, which separates the North and South Islands.

Established in 1840, Wellington became New Zealand's capital in 1865, replacing Auckland. The city serves as the country's political center, hosting the nation's Parliament Buildings, including the distinctive Beehive building, which houses the executive wing. The city is also the headquarters for many government institutions, diplomatic missions, and national organizations.

Wellington is renowned for its strong winds, earning the nickname "Windy Wellington." The city experiences a temperate maritime climate with relatively mild temperatures throughout the year. Average summer temperatures range from 19-21°C (66-70°F), while winter temperatures typically fall between 6-12°C (43-54°F). The city receives approximately 1,250mm (49 inches) of rainfall annually, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.

The city boasts numerous cultural attractions, including Te Papa Tongarewa (the National Museum of New Zealand), which showcases the country's natural history, Maori culture, and contemporary art. The Wellington Cable Car, a historic funicular railway, provides panoramic views of the city and harbor, while the Zealandia ecosanctuary offers visitors a glimpse of New Zealand's unique wildlife in a protected natural setting. The city's vibrant arts scene is centered around Cuba Street, known for its bohemian atmosphere, cafes, and boutiques.

Wellington's economy is primarily service-based, with government administration, professional services, and the creative industries being major employers. The city has gained recognition as a hub for New Zealand's film industry, earning the nickname "Wellywood." Weta Workshop and Weta Digital, known for their work on major film productions including "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, are based in the city.

Transportation infrastructure includes Wellington International Airport, an extensive public bus network, and the Metlink commuter rail system connecting the city with its suburbs. The Wellington Harbor serves as a major seaport, handling both passenger and cargo vessels, including the Interislander and Bluebridge ferries that connect the North and South Islands.

The Facts:
Region: Wellington.
Island: North Island.
Population: ~ 214,200 (June 2024).
Metropolitan population: ~ 450,000.

Suburbs of Wellington: Wellington Central, Churton Park, Houghton Bay, Glenside, Te Aro, Grenada North, Kelburn, Mount Victoria, Kingston, Johnsonville, Linden, Takapu Valley, Horokiwi, Woodridge, Broadmeadows, Crofton Downs, Karori, Newlands, Ōwhiro Bay, Southgate, Evans Bay, Worser Bay, Hataitai, Lyall Bay, Kilbirnie, Miramar, Seatoun, Breaker Bay, Karaka Bays, Grenada Village, Wadestown, Maupuia, Melrose, Moa Point, Rongotai, Roseneath, Strathmore Park, Ohariu, Paparangi, Tawa, Mount Cook, Oriental Bay, Thorndon, Highbury, Kaiwharawhara, Pipitea, Brooklyn, Berhampore, Khandallah, Mākara, Mākara Beach, Ngaio, Ngauranga, Northland, Wilton, Aro Valley, Island Bay, Newtown, Vogeltown, Mornington.

Main sights in Wellington: New Zealand Parliament, Wellington Botanic Garden, ZEALANDIA Ecosanctuary, Wellington Cable Car, Wellington Waterfront, Wellington Museum, Wellington Zoo, Oriental Bay, Wellington City Gallery, Te Aro, Mount Victoria, Cuba Street, Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa.

Postcodes: 5016, 5028, 6011, 6012, 6021, 6022, 6023, 6035, 6037, 6972.
Area code: 04.
Google Map of Wellington
Website: wellington.govt.nz.

Airport: Wellington International Airport.

Major highways: State Highway 1, State Highway 2, State Highway 58, State Highway 59.
Major Streets: Cuba Street, Courtenay Place, Lambton Quay, Molesworth Street, Old Porirua Road, Vivian Street, Whitmore Street, Willis Street.

Colleges and universities: Victoria University of Wellington, Massey University, New Zealand School of Music, University of Otago, Whitireia New Zealand, Wellington Institute of Technology.