Group Tour of Wellington
Take a tour of incredibly beautiful, wild landscapes and heritage sites in and around Wellington city. Beginning at the rugged South Coast – scarred by earthquakes over the years, this cliff meets ocean scenery is one of the most picturesque in the country! From your vantage, see the entrance to the harbor flanked by towering mountain ranges on South Island in the distance. Quaint little houses cling to these rocky cliffs by the side of motorways winding their way around the island. A little distance, take a cable car ride up the steep Mount Victoria. At the summit, panoramic views of the island, stark landscapes, ocean and distant shores await, apart from a birds eye view of the harbor below. Continue on to the most famous buildings in the vicinity, including the historic Parliament building that sits on a vast tract of lush green lawn. Also explore the Old St. Paul’s cathedral; constructed from timber, it’s a vibrant gathering space for the local community. As your tour winds down, don’t forget to stop and refuel at a quaint coastal cafe or two. (Duration: 4 hrs; Shared Activity; Time of Day: 0900/1330 hrs; Tea and bottled water included)
Personalized Maori Heritage Tour at Te Papa Museum
Explore the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa that overlooks the Wellington waterfront. Through this delightful experience, get an in-depth understanding of New Zealand, its history of human settlements, stunning geographical features, and fascinating native lifestyles. Begin with the interactive backlit floor map of New Zealand, where you can step on to view regional highlights of Māori landscape and see exhibits of the island’s extinct species. Learn about Māori culture from an indigenous perspective and their influence in modern society. Browse through Māori arts, crafts, ships, dresses, and treasures while listening to traditional tribe stories and legends. Marvel at the intricate carvings on an old wharenui of a Māori meeting hall, called the marae, and admire a large pounamu greenstone immersed in a pond. End with a hongi greeting, before returning to your hotel. (Duration: 1 hr; Time: On-demand; Private Activity; Fitness Level: Easy)
