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Key Facts

Wellington is New Zealand's centre of government and the world's southernmost capital city. It is also the country's cultural and the third most populous urban area in New Zealand.

Home to many museums, galleries, theatres, festivals and events, Wellington is also a leading centre for creative industries and is the home of the New Zealand Stock Exchange (NZX). The city is situated alongside Wellington Harbour and surrounded by natural beauty including Zealandia, an award-winning eco-attraction just minutes from the central business district. 

Population

Wellington City

Wellington city has a population of 197,000 people. The Wellington region (a series of closely linked cities and districts) is home to almost 480,000 people. The city accounts for 41% of the region's population and 5% of New Zealand's overall population. The capital's population is young, with 55.9% aged 18-49 years (2006) compared with 45.1% in NZ generally.

Climate

Wellington Climate

Wellington’s weather gets a fair bit of slack and, yes, it can get a bit windy from time-to-time. But the capital actually enjoys a temperate and often sunny climate, enjoying around 2,000 sunshine hours a year. The warmest month is February, the coolest is July, and average annual rainfall is 1270mm.

Tourism

Cruise ship docked in Wellington

Tourism is a vital contributor to Wellington's economy, resulting in some $1.4 billion in expenditure per year - that's over $2600 per minute and an average of $3.8 million per day. Further tourism statistics can be found in our About Us section.

 

Wellingtonians

Kayaking in Wellington Harbour

It's been said that over one-third (33%) of Wellington residents have a bachelor degree or higher qualification - the highest in the country. Wellingtonians are also known as some of the fittest New Zealanders, with 11% of its residents walking to work and runners a regular sight around the picturesque waterfront.

Wellington Trivia

Solace in the Wind

From a national museum with exhibition space the size of three rugby fields to the legend behind the design of the iconic Beehive, our Quirky Facts & Stories page has some great figures and interesting urban legends.

Contact our Media Team

Questions? Need facts checked? Want story ideas? Get in touch, it’s our job to make yours easier.

Wellington Images

Request free photos from our online image library.
 

Media Backgrounders

Facts, figures and tips for your stories about Wellington.

Latest News

Capital’s Total Guest Nights up 10% for April

14 Jun 2013

The value of major events and conferences is evident in the latest Commercial Accommodation Monitor statistics, says Positively Wellington Tourism (PWT).

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Lovers of Chocolate to Melt at Festival’s Third Round

10 Jun 2013

The New Zealand Chocolate Festival (NZCF) is serving its third course of all-things-chocolate in Wellington from 6-8 September.

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Wellington Hotels Dominate National awards

31 May 2013

For his efforts in undertaking a significant hotel rebrand and refurbishment in just under two years, Rydges Wellington General Manager Simon White has been named Lane Neave Lawyers Senior Hotel Executive of the Year 2013.

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