Touring Wellington with Hammonds…

Traveling on city tours can definitely have its advantages. Transportation is arranged and valuable information is provided by knowledgeable local guides. Those on time restrictions may benefit from tours and it’s a great way to introducing oneself to a new city. Therefore, what better way to see the highlights of the city of Wellington, New Zealand than with Hammonds Wellington Tours.

This family owned sightseeing business has been operating since 1924! With such a legacy behind them, no wonder they are classified as an award-winning tour company. The Wellington Tour operates twice a day with a minimum of two guests, and also provide a multi-lingual commentary system. Morning and afternoon tours are enjoyed in luxury air-conditioned coaches, where you can sit back, relax and enjoy Wellington’s beautiful scenery on the two-and-a-half-hour tour.

Unfortunately, our time in Wellington was limited. With only a day in the city, we wanted to see and learn as much as we could. Our Hammonds guide Lorraine, welcomed us and her friendly and enthusiastic nature was evident from start to finish. Her knowledge and passion for Wellington was delightful and she provided us with so much information we would never have known about if we did not participate on the tour.

Meeting at the Wellington i-SITE centre (local information centre), we set out that glorious day, visiting many city sights, including the Beehive, Parliament buildings and the Lady Norwood Rose Garden, with the option to discover some off the beaten track spots as well.

Visiting Old St Paul’s Church was a highlight. St Pauls was the original Cathedral Church of Wellington from 1866 to 1964. The heritage listed, Gothic Revival building was constructed from the finest New Zealand timbers-rimu, totara, matai and kauri. St Paul’s timber interior is breathtaking. Alongside its stunning stained-glass windows and elaborate sanctuary, this now retired church, still remains a place for spiritual significance, where weddings, funerals and even concerts are held.

The Wellington Cable Car (optional at own cost) another must see sight when in the city of Wellington, is visited by Hammonds Tours. The steep funicular railway is a one of a kind in New Zealand. The five-minute ride from downtown Wellington takes you all the way to the lookout at the top of the hill where spectacular views of the CBD, Mount Victoria and Wellington’s busy harbour can be viewed. This is a great spot for those Instagram worthy shots of Wellington! At the top of the peak is Wellington’s beautiful Botanical Gardens, and if time permits, you will be able to explore with the Hammonds Tour.

Previously, I was unaware of the many beautiful bays within Wellington and without participating in the tour, would not have had the chance to visit this southern coast of the North Island. We stopped at Moa Point, in-between Breaker Bay and Lyall Bay, where the opportunity to view New Zealand’s South Island and the planes arriving and departing from Wellington International Airport, can be seen.

The breathtaking scenery along the coastline of these stunning bays and popular beaches gives this “cool little capital city” a relaxed and nature inspired vibe.

On return to the city centre, the last stop was Wellington’s famous peak Mount Victoria, where a 360° view of the city is visible. The panoramic views of the city, harbour, bays, islands and beyond, are unforgettable and the whole city of Wellington is can be appreciated from this one point on the Mount.

I’m so glad we experienced Hammonds Wellington Tours. We even managed to squeeze in the time to visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa on the morning we were departing Wellington, which came highly recommended by our guide. She informed us that if there was one place to check out, it should definitely be the WWII Gallipoli exhibition within the museum. And we were so glad we did, and that is another post within itself.

With many photo opportunities of a city that is extremely photogenic, Hammonds Tours is a great way to discover the city of Wellington. So, whether you are on a cruise ship stop over, or have limited time or simply enjoy meeting others and receiving recommendations and knowledge from the locals, then Hammonds Wellington Tours is for you.

Disclosure: Sponsored post in collaboration with Hammonds Tours. This post contains my own personal photos. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I choose to write this honest review to inform you of my experience.

Hammonds Wellington Tours

Address: 111 Wakefield St, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand

Phone: +64 4-472 0869

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