Thanks to the tilt of the Earth, if you are in any part of the world above the equator, You’ve definitely started planning your winter vacations, but wait. If you are planning to go south, the situation is not quite the same there. And if you understand this fun fact then you might be wondering if you are going there Wellington in winter Have a good idea? Well, that’s for sure! The wind is blowing, and “Veli” has become cold! As the coldest little capital, Wellington’s temperatures rarely rise above 25° in winter and the sweaty seaside weather is compensated by a breeze that makes it perfect for both hemispheres.
How cold does Wellington get in winter?
Winter in Wellington is seen in the months of June to August, with overcast skies and room for an umbrella in a backpack. Although it may seem a little strange, Kiwis are known for doing things a little differently! Speaking of Northern Hemisphere winter, which means late spring or early summer, the sun is not too harsh and is ideal for a natural tan, however, a good sunscreen is recommended!
10 things to do in Wellington during winter
So, if you are planning to visit this amazing city during the winter months, here are ten exciting activities that you cannot miss in Wellington in winter:
1. Lower Hutt: Be part of the carnival of lights
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Often described by locals as a carnival of lights, the highlights certainly make Wellington come alive. This four-night show over the weekend promises to capture your senses and leave you wanting more. With a perfect blend of sound and sight, if this isn’t the ‘highlight’ of your trip, we don’t know what is. From interactive installations to live performances that are nothing short of wild, the highlights top the list of things to do in Wellington in winter.
Place: Riddiford Gardens, Langs Road, Lower Hutt
entrance fees: Free
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2. TSB Arena: Celebrate Diwali with desi housemates
Although Diwali in India may be on your bucket list, due to the population of Indians in Wellington, you may never really feel left out. The streets around the country houses in Wellington start to fill up with henna tattoos and small lamps and before you know it, fireworks in the air and Bollywood dance moves will turn the darkest night of the year into an unforgettable memory. If you don’t mind the spice, grab some tasty snacks and watch as Wellingtonians choose their favorite Mr and Miss Diwali.
Place: TSB Arena and Shed 6
entrance fees: gold coin entry
Pro Tip: Wear something traditional to avoid feeling outlandish.
3. Odlins Plaza: Take a trip back in time at Pasifika Festival
Every January, Wellingtonians take a day off their calendars to immerse themselves in the culture of the Pacific at the Pasifika Festival. Step away from the history books and documentaries, Pasifika Festival will take you back to the city’s original days and bring down the winter Wellington temperatures by a whisker. Homemade flavors made from native knowledge and age-old values, this festival is your window into Pacific culture and cuisine.
Place: Odlins Plaza
Time: 12 noon to 6 pm
entrance fees: Free
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4. Mount Wellington: Visit New Zealand’s first winery, Mission Estate Wines
In 1838, when the French were heading to Mount Wellington in winter, they packed their wine along with their everyday belongings. It was no longer possible to transport liquor here and there and thus the need arose for the establishment of mission estates. With centuries-old knowledge of wine making and a pronounced accent, a visit to Mission Estate will definitely have you sipping, smelling and sipping their wines like the French. While wearing white is not recommended (wine stains, *rolling eyes*), the Mission Estate is often the site of weddings, and if you’re lucky you might just be able to attend one.
Place: 198 Church Road, Napier, Hawke’s Bay 4112
Time: 9 AM to 5 PM (Monday to Saturday) 10 am – 4:30 pm (Sunday)
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5. Seal Coast Safari: See adorable seals
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If your mom has ever complained about you spending all day lying in bed doing nothing, then seeing these little mustached puppy-eyed sea creatures lounging around on a rocky beach will definitely make you feel better. Will make you lost in old memories. Although it is not recommended to delay, Seal Beach is 20 km from Wellington and every minute becomes more picturesque than the last as its proximity to the rough tides of the ocean increases. Go on safari to enter a private farm and feed goats, cows and even ostriches!
Place: Wellington i-Site Visitor Centre, Corner Victoria and Wakefield Streets, Wellington
entrance fees: Adult – $125 | Child – $62.50
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6. Wellington Writers’ Walk: Unblock!
This is especially for writers. Whether you have writer’s block or need some real-life inspiration for your fantasy novel, this is the place to relax, retreat, and learn some colloquial language. Fill your lungs with the air that these literary geniuses inhaled while living in Wellington and move forward knowing that what makes you unique is you. Hope this inspires you! Now, put your head down and start writing.
Place: Between Dominion Post Ferry Wharf and Point Jerningham, Wellington
entrance fees: Free
Place: Between Dominion Post Ferry Wharf and Point Jerningham, Wellington
entrance fees: Free
7. Makara Beach: Soak up some sun
While your friends up north are shivering under their blankets with hot chocolate, wouldn’t some pina colada and tan be great? Makara Beach, on a sunny day, promises spectacular views of windmills, hills and New Zealand’s adorable seals. Being a rocky beach, the waves often have a mind of their own and can be quite violent, yet the salty taste on your lips and walking barefoot on the shore as the sun sets is like one from Ed Sheeran’s music videos.
Place: Makara Road, Wellington
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8. Egmont Street: Get graffiti hunting
Adding to the cool part of the creative capital is the freedom it offers its local graffiti artists. Cuba Street has a bucket fountain that is notorious for spilling water if you get too close to it. Egmont Street in central Wellington is another bustling street full of colorful splashes and vibrant bars. As for the heroes, there has also been a David Bowie portrait made somewhere, do you want to find out and tell us?
Place: Egmont Street, Central Wellington
9. Opera House: Surprise Yourself
Find yourself imagining a ballet performance or being mesmerized by a magical musical circus, the Opera House is one of the city’s oldest, most popular venues to host everything and so much to do in Wellington in winter. Things are incomplete. Visit this 100 year old iconic stage. While you’re there, we recommend that you let yourself go and accept whatever comes your way. They say, often the best things are outside our comfort zone. Why not try it for real?
Place: 111 – 113 Manners Street, Te Aro, Wellington
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10. Central Wellington: Wind down the day with some refreshing wine
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With Daylight Saving Time, evening falls sooner than you expect in Wellington and if you want to end things on a high note, head to the road between Leeds and Ewa to find the hidden highway for your guilty pleasure. Go. From craft beers at cute upcycled bars to home-cooked Italian pizza and a hole-in-the-wall dessert place with 5 types of peanut butter, this street is for those who love crunchy, creamy, chocolate, cheese and Looking for something nice, cheap.
Place: Central Wellington
read ahead: Day trips from Wellington: 10 amazing places to visit from the windy city
Now, doesn’t Wellington in winter sound like an ideal holiday? For personalized itineraries and more information, contact the experts at TourTravelHotels and set out on the most exciting and memorable holiday of your life. When you get back from New Zealand, don’t forget to write to us about your wonderful vacation there!
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