Wellington: What to Do When Not Watching the World Cup

As cricket fans around the world begin to count down days for the World Cup 2015, one can only imagine the level of excitement that’s brewing. The matches will be held in world-class venues across Australia and New Zealand, two nations known for their sporting culture, great cricket facilities and ardent fans.

Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, will host three pool games and a quarter final knockout.

Almost everything about Wellington is artsy and creative, including the Westpac Stadium, the venue for the World Cup matches and a major sporting arena in New Zealand. Because of its shape and silver-coloured exteriors, it is very often referred to as ‘The Cake Tin’.

Take some time out between matches to explore the city’s best sights and indulge in a range of adventure activities.

1. Visit the New Zealand Cricket Museum

When not watching the game in the stadium, make it a point to visit the New Zealand Cricket Museum located in Wellington’s historic test cricket venue, the Basin Reserve. The museum displays memorabilia from the 19^th Century including one of the world’s oldest bats and gear used by legends like Sir Richard Hadlee and Stephen Fleming. What’s more, there’s even a tiger skin on display- but to find out the Cricket connection you’ll have to go there!

Where: New Zealand Cricket Museum, Museum Stand, Basin Reserve

Opening Hours: 10:30 am - 3:30 pm daily November - April, Saturday & Sunday May - October

Price: NZ $5 (Adult), NZ $2 (Child)

2. Take a Ride on the Famous Cable Car

No trip to Wellington is complete till you have experienced the historic Cable Car. Offering stunning views over the harbour and city, the Cable Car also has easy access to the Botanic Garden, Cable Car Museum, Carter Observatory & Planetarium and Zealandia.

Where: Wellington Cable Car, Cable Car Lane, 280 Lambton Quay

Price: NZ $7.50 (Adult), NZ $3.50 (Child),  NZ $19 (Family), Prices are for return trips. Single and multi-trip tickets are also available.

3. Unlock Your Adventure Mode

With the stunning harbour on one side and rolling green hills on the other, Wellington offers the perfect setting for adventurous excursions. Explore the rugged South Coast and visit a native fur seal colony on a 4WD adventure; go mountain biking to Makara Peak or enjoy the thrill of quad biking through kilometres of private coastline. For some more adrenaline-pumping action, try their high ropes, Tarzan swings and flying foxes.

Where: There are many vendors in New Zealand. Check with your Tour Operator for the best option.

Price (will vary depending on the vendor): For 4WD Adventure: NZ $125 (Adult), NZ $62.50 (Child); Half-day Quad Biking (including lunch): NZ $229 per person; High ropes, Tarzan swings and flying fox: NZ $42 (Adult), NZ $17 (Child)

4. ‘Get High’ on the Hot Air Balloon Ride

Enjoy the beauty of the Wairarapa Wine Region as you soar above the clouds and take in the stunning views of the harbour and snow-capped mountains. A hot air balloon ride is definitely a must on your list of things to do in Wellington.

Where: There are many vendors in New Zealand. Check with your Tour Operator for the best option.

Price (will vary depending on the vendor): NZ $300 (per Adult)

5. Catch the Waves While Surfing

Wellington boasts of some stunning beaches and bays, ideal for surfing, scuba diving or simply lazing under the sun. Lyall Bay, a ten-minute drive from the city is the most popular surf beach in Wellington. You can ride the waves and even take a swim; don’t worry about safety as the beach is patrolled by lifeguards during summers.

Where to Eat

If you’re craving for an Indian meal, head to Taste of India in Te Aro or Zaikai on Willis Street and savour mouth-watering Indian delicacies.

Where to Stay

Copthorne Hotel Wellington Oriental Bay is well located, not too far from the Westpac Stadium, and offers luxurious accommodation, coupled with stunning views of the harbour. Click here to check out room availability.

And to end on a happy note, here’s some good news for all Indian passport holders travelling to watch the World Cup. Tourism NZ will be offering free visa on arrival provided you have applied for an Australian Visa.

Book your tickets today!