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Wellington City And Coastal Highlights Half Day TourExplore > New Zealand > Wellington > Wellington City And Coastal Highlights Half Day TourOverviewExperience the highlights of this vibrant, creative capital city of New Zealand. Nestled between the hills and the harbor, Wellington is a bustling, creative city with a decidedly hip vibe. Familiarize yourself with Wellington's "must see" sites on this half day tour and still have time to do some exploring on your own. Whether you are taking the morning or the afternoon tour, you can be sure your time will be well-spent. Our local guide is an expert on Wellington and will acquaint us with its history and culture as we make our way up to Mt. Victoria for some spectacular views of the city below. Following the coastal road with its lovely scenery, we'll soon arrive at the Weta Cave Museum and shop. As any Lord of the Rings Fan knows, many of the movie's Middle Earth exterior scenes were filmed in New Zealand, with many interior shots and much of the CGI and miniatures magic taking place at the Weta Cave Studios, the showpiece of Peter Jackson's film empire. We'll have a chance to look around the museum, take a photo with an orc and maybe find the perfect LOTR souvenir for someone back home (or yourself). We will take the rugged South Coast road as we head back to town, where a ride on the historic Wellington Cable Car is our next order of business. This funicular has been running strong for more than 100 years and although it's just a short ride, it's a blast (heck, just saying the word "funicular" is fun). Admire the hillside terraced houses of Kelburn en route to the lookout, providing amazing views of the cityscape below. A stroll through the Lady Norwood Rose Garden, with more than 3,000 roses in 110 beds, will provide a change of pace and is the perfect place to take a break for morning or afternoon tea. Although you won't find any bees here, our next stop is the Beehive, the local nickname for the distinctive executive wing of Parliament. The Beehive, along with the other Parliament buildings are one of the best-known landmarks in the Wellington. Our last stop is one of the city's most special heritage sites, Old St. Paul's. Its soaring arches constructed of local timbers lend the appearance of an upturned galleon. Spectacular lighting gives the interior a rosy glow, enriching the appearance of the intricate stained glass windows. And although Old St. Paul's is no longer used for religious services (having been replaced by New St. Paul's just a block away), its splendid acoustics along with it's beautiful interior, have contributed to Old St. Paul's becoming a favorite venue for concerts, weddings and other special events. - There is some walking on this tour. Please wear comfortable shoes. - This tour includes all admission fees. - Food and beverages are not included in the price of this tour. - If you need a different departure time, contact ShoreTrips. - This tour is available for those with limited mobility or a collapsible wheelchair, provided the guest can transfer in and out of the vehicle with assistance. Days offered: 7 days a week Departures:
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