Wellington is the capital of New Zealand, has around 200,000 inhabitants and is located at the southern tip of the North Island. The earliest Maori name for Wellington is Te Upoko o te Ika a Maui - which means ‘the head of Maui's fish’ - stemming from the Maori legend that polynesian navigator Maui fished up the North Island. Wellington takes its name after Arthur Wellesley (1769-1852), the first Duke of Wellington and victor of the Battle of Waterloo (1815).
We knew the RV park was right down town, but hadn't expected it being a paved parking lot.
It was, however, a very convenient location right next to the ferry to the South Island, and to attractions and shops. New Zealand is known as wine country, but they certainly make some great craft beers as well.
A former colleague from Tourism Vancouver had introduced me to a friend of hers living in Wellington, and we met with Sally. She was very hospitable, and took us on a beautiful drive around Wellington. The view from Victoria Hill.
We had a great lunch at the Crab Shed, and spent the rest of the day drinking wine and chatting at Sally's place. Sally is a facinating woman, and she runs an online company called AssistedWear, specializing in clothing and apparel for those facing physical challenges dressing.
We visited the museum of Wellington City & Sea, which is celebrating Wellington's social, cultural and maritime history. As well as the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa, which is the national museum, and very informative and interactive.
They are turning the old port into a very nice waterfront area.
This was a great finale for our time in Wellington, and on the North island for now.
