Most visitors to New Zealand include Wellington on their itinerary. It is the capital city and political center of the nation, located on the south coast of the North Island of New Zealand. The central business district is in close proximity to the harbour, and Wellington City Council has done a wonderful job of creating a waterfront area that has everything you need to enjoy your stay while in Wellington.

The best thing about the boardwalk is that it is very close to the CBD. Just a few minutes’ walk from the city center, you can sit by the sea, enjoy a sandwich, and dip your toes in the harbour. It is the ideal place to eat, drink, play, learn, meet people or enjoy the scenery.

The next time you enjoy your time in Wellington, set aside a few hours to explore the waterfront and experience the variety of options it has to offer. If you’re an art connoisseur, you’ll love the variety of sculptures like Len Lye’s Water Whirler, Tanya Ashken’s The Albatross sculpture, and Max Patte’s Solace in the Wind. Wellington’s Writers’ Walk is a fascinating sculptural display that celebrates the city’s writers and poets with words.

Admiring all that art can whet your appetite, and the coast has plenty to satisfy that hunger, from restaurants and cafes to bars and a variety of different eating establishments to suit your budget. Some of the favorites are the Circa Cafe and Bar, Shed 5, and the Brewery Bar and Restaurant. For a refreshing ice cream on a hot day, you can’t beat Kaffee Eis.

Wellington’s waterfront even has the perfect spot for those who love to create their own culinary masterpieces. Wellington’s oldest and most popular market, the Harborside Market is open every Sunday morning from 7:30 am It’s the perfect place to buy flowers, fresh produce, bread, cheese, preserves and hot food. Another popular market is held below Frank Kitts Park every Saturday from 10 to 4. It’s a great place to find crafts, original art, restored furniture, books, and collectibles.

School trips usually include a visit to the seafront while in Wellington because it’s a great learning environment and the perfect place for kids to blow off some pent up energy. The Te Papa National Museum and the Wellington Museum are full of learning opportunities and the play spaces at Frank Kitts Park, the Pond and Waitangi Park are ideal for families and larger groups to enjoy leisure time in Wellington.

You won’t regret spending time on the waterfront during your next stay in Wellington. There is always something new to discover.