- Information
- Traveler Advice
- Forums
48HourVisit.com
Planning a short visit? Check out 48HourVisit.com, your online guide for short stays and weekend getaways. Ad
The Glossary
Wellington Travel Guide
Besides being the capital of New Zealand, Wellington is also an architectural mine. As if pressed by fashion trends, Wellington changes buildings almost as frequently as a lady would change her clothes. As a result of a building frenzy that has lasted for 150 years, Wellington is now a hub for those on the lookout for architectural éclairs-from Old Colonial English to postmodern structures.
Situated at the southwestern tip of the North Island, Wellington is the third most populated New Zealand city and has the 12th best quality of living in the world. Named in the honor of Arthur Wellesley, first Duke of Wellington and victor of the Battle of Waterloo, Wellington also goes by the nicknames Windy City (since it is generally windy here with a lot of rainfall and rare snow), and Wellywood (for being the country's entertainment industry center). Oscar-winners like the actor Russell Crowe and Peter Jackson, the director of cult films King Kong and The Lord of the Rings, are from Wellington.
Wellington's picturesque natural harbor and green hillsides are adorned with sundry architectural styles, from 19th century wooden cottages and colonial villas such as the Italianate Katherine Mansfield Birthplace in Thordon, to postmodern structure like the Bucket Fountain in Cuba Street. After the 1855 earthquake, most of the city's buildings were constructed using wood. Famous examples are the government buildings or The Beehive, a circular-conical structure regarded as the largest wooden office building in the Southern Hemisphere.
For transportation, the Kelburn cable car is a Wellington icon. It provides regular service to some parts of the compact city, which is reputed as home to several high-profile arts and cultural events such as the New Zealand Arts Festival, World of Wearable Art and Cuba Street Carnival.
Wellington Landmarks:
User blogs:
Ati-atihan in Kalibo Aklan
Ati-atihand origins ccan be traced to 1210 when refugees from Borneo would smear their faces with soot in affectionalte immitation of the Filipino natives The island of Panay in the Visayas is where this particular detail of Philipine history took place sometime ih the late 12th or early 13th century. For centuries hence, it has been commemoratged in one specific place - in Kalibo, the capital ... Read full Blog post
Baguio: City of Pines
This is SM City Baguio. The biggest mall in the city. I never imagine to live here in Baguio for a long time. But becuase of studies, I prefer to take my college course here than in Manila. After a two year long of staying in here I am learning to appreciate what Baguio has to offer to its tourists and locals. But seeing its changes from its foundation last 1909, Baguio grew a lot faster ... Read full Blog post
In our Magazine
Summer Destination to Avoid: Gulf of Mexico
EPA is failing to do their job monitoring the air and reporting factual data. The people need to be made aware that their lives and long term livelihood are at stake because of the air quality in Gulf of Mexico.
How to Avoid Traveling Troubles
Traveling to a certain destination might not become memorable if there are too many troubles along the way. Remember that even the best trips are usually not trouble-free. Follow these tips that help lessen the hassles.
Unique Toys from Japan
Japan is known for its fascinating, and sometimes, eccentric culture. From anime, karaoke, to advanced technology, the Land of the Rising Sun always has something unique to offer.
