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Have a Whale of a Time in Wellington

Hot on the heels of its busiest ever December, New Zealand’s most popular destination is breaking new ground in the marine mammal market.

Just days after a large pod of dolphins made a visit to Wellington’s waters, orcas have this week been holidaying in the city’s harbour.

While like previous high profile guest Happy Feet, the aquatic tourists have moved on, there’s plenty of ways Wellington’s visitors can have a nautical time in the capital:

Try your hand at sailing
On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, the Sailing Academy offers Harbour Sails for just $40 - no experience necessary. An hour and a half will take you to places such as the Queens Wharf, Oriental Parade and Evans Bay. They also offer longer 'learn to sail' courses.

Go kayaking
Hire a kayak or paddle board from Fergs Kayaks on the waterfront and explore the harbour yourself from just $15. Or take a tour with an experienced guide - there's even a lights at night tour where you witness the beauty of Wellington under the stars.

Take the ferry to seaside villages
The Dominion Post Ferry makes regular trips from downtown Wellington to Matiu/Somes Island and the relaxed seaside villages of Seatoun, Days Bay and Eastbourne. During weekends, the ferry also stops off at Lower Hutt suburb, Petone - home to a mix of heritage buildings, funky cafes, boutiques and the settlers museum.

Explore Matiu/Somes Island
Matiu/Somes Island is situated in the middle of Wellington Harbour. On the island you can wander amidst native plant and bird life and explore the island's extraordinary history.

Spot seals on a coast safari
Check out Wellington’s rugged south coast and native fur seals on a 4WD adventure with Seal Coast Safari. Enjoy tea, coffee and a muffin with the seals and take in the beauty of their natural habitat, experiencing the crashing waves and the famous Leaning Lighthouse.

See the Colossal Squid at Te Papa
Head along to Australasia’s most visited museum, where you can witness the colossal squid and explore its habitat in the deep ocean of Antarctica.

Walk the waterfront
If you want to explore the harbour from solid ground, then a walk around the waterfront will give you beautiful views with access to plenty of cafes, bars, restaurants and parks along the way. Keep an eye out for the Writers Walk sculptures that are dotted along the waterfront. You could also take in views of the harbour and coastline from one of Wellington's many beaches and bays.

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