Wellington is New Zealand's capital city and the country's centre of government situated on a scenic harbour at the Southern tip of the North Island.
The wider Wellington region, including the cities of Lower and Upper Hutt, Porirua and Wairarapa is home to 473,700 people, or 11 percent of New Zealand's population, and provides employment in the finance, insurance and business services sectors.
The region has a long history of Maori settlement and legend says Wellington is the head of a fish hauled out of the sea by the demigod Maui. In 1839, Wellington was chosen as a site for planned European settlement in New Zealand.
Wellington is a very walkable, compact city for those who like to explore its waterfront, cafes and boutiques, or take to the walkways that stretch across the city's hills.
Culture and nightlife make Wellington the undisputed party capital of New Zealand. Wall to wall restaurants, bars and cafes and packed out theatres and cultural venues combine to create an unrivalled energy and vibe. Every night, Courtenay Place bars, cafes and cinemas draw people with time to spare and people to meet.
Wellington has a track record of hosting outstanding major events ranging from the International Festival of Arts and International Rugby Sevens through to World Film Premieres and the World of Wearable Art Show.
This was also helped by local hero Peter Jackson who launched Wellington's film industry with the stunning international success - and Wellington red-carpet premieres - of his Lord of the Rings and King Kong movies. The films have spawned niche businesses in the film industry specialising in pre-production, post-production, and special effects.
Economy
Wellington is home to the nation's Parliament, affectionately known as 'the Beehive' and the many government ministries. It is also has significant financial sector and hosts the New Zealand Stock Exchange (NZX). In recent years, Wellington has become a world-leader for creative industries, such as design, film and computer technology.
Climate
While infamous for the strong southerly winds that come off the Wellington Harbour, Wellington has more sunshine hours than London (2,025 hours) and less rainfall than Auckland (1,270mm). Temperatures range from an average of 6-8°C in July to 17-20°C in February.
Population
The wider Wellington region is home to some 473,700 residents or 11 percent of the country's total population, 192,800 of whom live in Wellington City. Wellington is also a culturally diverse city. Around 70 percent of residents are European, 13 percent are Asian, eight percent are Maori and five percent are of Pacific Island descent.
