The world’s southernmost capital city will be a popular destination for the red army, set to follow the British & Irish Lions in 2017.
Wellington is a vibrant city, known as New Zealand’s arts and culture hotspot, and is home to the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and the Royal New Zealand Ballet, as well as national treasures such as the original Treaty of Waitangi – the nation’s founding document.
Built in a stunning harbour setting and surrounded by steep hills, Wellington also boasts a nature reserve giving its visitors the opportunity to mingle with endangered native birds, such as the kiwi and saddleback, and other New Zealand wildlife.
Lord of the Rings fans can visit the Weta Cave, which offers a behind-the-scenes look at the special effects used in director Sir Peter Jackson’s movies. The mini museum showcases characters, props and displays from more than 20 years of Weta history.
While the Lions have traditionally found taking on the All Blacks a tough task, Wellington has proved to be one of their happier hunting grounds.
As well as a series of Tour match victories, there were Test match wins in 1993, with Gavin Hastings as captain, and in the triumphant 1971 series.
