10 Things to do/like in Wellington

Rough Guides suggest some highlights, which doesn't cover everything, so we've expanded/amended the selection:

1. Te Papa The national museum has become Wellington's premier attraction, with intriguing displays of pre-European Maori culture, and some of the country's finest art.
2. Oriental Parade and Mount Victoria No visit to Wellington is complete without an ice-cream promenade taking in Oriental Parade and the panoramic views from Mount Victoria. The waterfront between the conference venue and Oriental Parade is just as good - look out for the poetry, sculptures and bars & restaurants. We will have an informal gathering at St John's Bar along the waterfront on Sunday 6pm+ for early visitors.
3. Cuba Street People-watching and window shopping along Wellington's "alternative" street gives a taste of the city's divergent lifestyles.
4. The Botanic Gardens Take the cable car up and stroll back down for great views, beautiful roses and the lovely Begonia House.
5. The Parliamentary District Visit the country's seat of power and associated national institutions, including a chance to see the original Treaty of Waitangi. Note the conference is in the middle of this district and there's no chance of missing the Beehive!
6. Zealandia Native birds once again flock around suburban Wellington, aided by the predator-free environment and regenerating native bush at this superb wildlife sanctuary. For the budget conscious there is Otari-Wilton's Bush, which is great for tramping in.
7. Matiu/Somes Island Cruise to this wildlife reserve and former quarantine station in the middle of Wellington Harbour.
8. Kiwiana "quirky things that contribute to a sense of nationhood”. Whereas Te Papa may sum up the grand themes of New Zealand, the Museum of the City and Sea sums up the day-to-day of Kiwi'ness - it's free and close to the conference.
9. Events Wellington is the cultural capital of New Zealand so has numerous small/medium/large theatres, venues, cinemas and public performance spaces to explore.
10. ‘Theme’ song Wellington has a song written about it that sums it up neatly - I wish I was in Wellington. True, it does get Windy, but on a beautiful day it is an outstanding place to visit!

Other guides exist, e.g. Lonely Planet, so please explore all that’s on offer.