From early Maori settlement through to the hub of central government, Wellington offers a full spectrum of insights into New Zealand’s past.
You can find out where enemy “aliens” were interned during both world wars; walk the steepest ever section of the mainline railway in New Zealand; and visit historic sites associated with early Maori habitation, sawmilling, transport, whaling, farming, defence, recreation, and nature conservation. We are protecting these sites so that our cultural heritage can be appreciated now and in the future.
Kapiti has rich Māori and colonial heritage. On the island you'll find The Whare - the oldest building on Kapiti Island, and the oldest building associated with nature conservation in New Zealand.
This is a standard 20-bunk hut in the Kapiti region. Field hut was one of the first purpose built tramping huts in the country, and is the oldest surviving recreational hut in the Tararua Ranges.
It may be a small island but its place in New Zealand’s history is huge. Explore Matiu/Somes to learn its stories and uncover its secrets.
Picnic at Boielle Flat, swim in the Waiotauru River, raft or kayak the Ōtaki River gorge, or enjoy short walks through Tararua Forest Park. Visitors can also see the steam-powered sawmill at Sheridan Creek, which operated from 1930 to 1938.
Situated in Wellington's Botanic Gardens is the historic Dominion Observatory where New Zealand's time was determined using astronomical observations. In 1916 the observatory also became the site of New Zealand’s first seismic research.