Wellington

Wellington might be small for a capital, but it has more cafés per person than almost anywhere else. The city sits between steep green hills and a restless harbor, so you’re never far from water or views. On windy days locals joke that you can lean into the breeze and not fall over.

The Māori knew this place as Te Whanganui-a-Tara, and their stories of the land and sea still shape its spirit. You can see carvings and hear legends at Te Papa, the national museum, where history isn’t hidden in glass cases but told in ways kids can climb, listen, and touch.

Wellington’s modern story took shape in the 19th century. The New Zealand Company brought settlers here in the 1840s, and earthquakes quickly showed them who was in charge. In 1865, leaders moved the capital from Auckland to Wellington, right in the middle of the islands, making it easier to govern the whole country.

The city sent troops to both World Wars, and the National War Memorial still honors them. During the Cold War, the harbor doubled as a port for allied navies, tying this distant place to world events. At the same time, protests on its streets pushed for women’s rights, Māori land claims, and nuclear-free policies that defined New Zealand’s identity.

Families visiting now can ride the red cable car up to the Botanic Garden, wander the old wooden Parliament buildings, or watch seals at Red Rocks just outside the city. Cuba Street with its splashy bucket fountain keeps kids laughing, while Mount Victoria offers a climb with sweeping views.