Keeper of the Nation’s Treasures
As the capital of New Zealand, Wellington is the keeper of the nation’s treasures. It holds New Zealand's stories of nationhood and heritage in national institutions like Te Papa, The National Archives, National Library and Parliament Buildings and The Katherine Mansfield Birthplace.
History of Wellington
The earliest name for Wellington, from Māori legend, is 'Te Upoko o te Ika a Maui', or 'the head of Maui's fish'. Caught and pulled to the surface by the Polynesian navigator Maui, the fish became the North Island. Read more about history of the region.
Stable economy
The region enjoys all the benefits of New Zealand’s stable open economy and competitive cost structures. It benefits too from being the seat of government. Almost the entire central government sector is here. This includes Parliament, the head offices of more than 30 government ministries and departments, the judiciary, and numerous related national institutions including specialist archives, libraries, cultural bodies, and legal and business organisations. There are also 39 foreign Embassies and High Commissions in Wellington. Read more about the Government sector in Wellington.
Useful Links
Suggested Itineraries for nationhood and heritage activities.