I may be biased, but I am not surprised.
Everywhere you look, theres a picture-perfect backdrop filled with greenery and crystal-clear waters.
Plus, its politically stable and very safe, which are increasingly appealing traits.
Here, youll find some of the countrys most valuable artworks, along with various international collections.
Both are worthwhile attractions that can be ticked off in half a day.
Its bustling from day to night and is especially packed on Friday nights for after-work drinks and dinner.
Rooms are sleek and modern yet very small, so they are suitable for solo travelers and couples.
And the restaurant, Kingi, is also excellent.
Restaurants
Bivacco
For a fun atmosphere and Italian-inspired fare, head to Bivacco in the Viaduct.
Go for the pizza or the chicken saltimbocca everything on the menu is great as are the cocktails.
And, it’s always a reliable destination for a good atmosphere and delicious food.
Its an interesting experience for children and adults alike.
Here you will find a scenic lookout, botanic gardens, and theCable Car Museum.
Just be sure to skip breakfast so you have room to sample everything.
There are 65 hotel rooms with either city or harbor views, and it also has 98 apartments.
Rita
You will need to book a month in advance to secure a table at this intimate prix-fixe restaurant.
The menu is seasonal, and it changes every day, so theres always something new.
Its a charming and eclectic place that perfectly represents Wellington’s hip, creative vibe.
Youll find delicious local cheese, honey, baked goods, chocolate, and award-winning flat whites.
For bigger waves, surfers head toTawharanui Beach, which is also located within the Matakana region.
Takatu Lodge
This gorgeous boutique lodge is located on a serene hilltop overlooking the Hauraki Gulf.
Meals are provided in the dining spaces and tailored to guests preferences.
Also, picnics are on offer for those wanting to set up at the nearby beaches for the day.
you could see an abundance of enchanting sea life, too, including dolphins, penguins, and whales.
Visit the Waitangi Treaty grounds
TheWaitangi Treaty Groundsis New Zealands most important historic site.
It is where the countrys founding document was signed in 1840.
It is an intimate enclave, with only five villas that are beautifully designed.
Its also home to many of New Zealands Great Walks and multi-day hikes.
The “eurocopters” are state-of-the-art, with maximum visibility from any vantage point.
They can be booked privately or as part of scheduled group tours.
Arrowtown
Arrowtownis a historic gold-mining town that looks like a village out of a fairy tale.
Be sure to stop atThe Remarkable Sweet Shopfor the creme brulee fudge.
Cocktail hour is a social affair, and the food and wine offerings are world-class.
Wine tastings are available, and there are excellent Pinot Noirs produced on site.
It also has an excellent wine list with varietals from vineyards in the area.
The place to go?
Blanket Bay, where apocalypse-weary billionaires are known to escape.
Accommodations are split between rooms in the main house and luxuriously decorated standalone villas.
Christchurch
Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve
Located in the Mt.
Cook National Park, theAoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reservehas some of the clearest and darkest skies for star-spotting.
The central location makes it popular for both leisure and business travelers.
The Observatory Hotel
The Observatory is a chic, design-forward boutique hotel that also opened in Christchurch in 2022.
It has rich interiors give the sense of eternal night, with vivid colors and ambient lighting.
Inati
Inati is a stylish fine-dining establishment helmed by the former head chef of Gordon Ramsays The Warrington.
If theres one place to book in advance in Christchurch, this is it.
The menu is filled with sharing plates and divided into earth, land, and sea categories.
Guests can park up at elegant stools overlooking the open kitchen and observe their food being artfully crafted.
During this period, temperatures are balmy, and youre more likely to encounter solid blocks of sunshine.
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