AucklandvsWellington
Can't decide between Auckland and Wellington? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Auckland
Auckland is the City of Sails, New Zealand's largest city straddling two harbors between ancient volcanic cones. This multicultural hub offers stunning natural beauty, Māori culture, world-class wine regions, and easy access to incredible outdoor adventures.
Known for
Wellington
Wellington is New Zealand's compact, creative capital, perched on a stunning harbor at the southern tip of the North Island. Known as the "Coolest Little Capital," it's home to Te Papa museum, a thriving craft beer and coffee culture, and Middle-earth film heritage.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Auckland offers Sky Tower, Waiheke Island, Rangitoto Island
Wellington offers Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, Wellington Cable Car, Zealandia Ecosanctuary
Food & Dining
Auckland is famous for its local dining scene
Wellington is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Auckland offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Wellington offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
December to March
November to April
Weather
Summer: 24°C, Winter: 14°C
Summer: 20°C, Winter: 9°C
Top Attractions in Auckland
- 1Sky Tower
- 2Waiheke Island
- 3Rangitoto Island
- 4Auckland Art Gallery
- 5Viaduct Harbour
- 6Hobbiton Day Trip
Top Attractions in Wellington
- 1Te Papa Tongarewa Museum
- 2Wellington Cable Car
- 3Zealandia Ecosanctuary
- 4Cuba Street
- 5Mount Victoria Lookout
- 6Weta Workshop
Auckland is Popular With
Wellington is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Auckland
- 1
Tiritiri Matangi Island
An open wildlife sanctuary and one of New Zealand's most successful conservation projects, accessible by ferry.
- 2
The Wintergardens in the Auckland Domain
Two beautiful historic glasshouses (one temperate, one tropical) nestled in Auckland's oldest park.
Hidden Gems in Wellington
- 1
The Wrights Hill Fortress
A historic WWII coastal artillery fortification built into the hills of Karori, featuring underground tunnels and bunkers.
- 2
Matiu/Somes Island
A scientific and historic reserve island in the middle of Wellington Harbour, accessible by a short ferry ride.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Auckland
Ponsonby & Grey Lynn
A trendy, vibrant hub known for its beautifully restored Victorian villas, boutique shopping on Ponsonby Road, and some of Auckland's best cafes and restaurants.
Wynyard Quarter & Viaduct Harbour
A modern, redeveloped waterfront precinct buzzing with maritime activity, luxury yachts, and waterfront dining.
Top Areas in Wellington
Central Business District (CBD) & Waterfront
The compact, beating heart of Wellington, blending modern government buildings with historic architecture, all leading to a vibrant waterfront promenade.
Cuba Street & Te Aro
The bohemian soul of the city, known for its colorful, pedestrian-friendly streets, vintage stores, eclectic dining, and iconic street art.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Auckland
Budget in Wellington
Book Activities
Find tours and experiences in both cities
Book Activities in Auckland
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Wellington
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
Compare transport options to both destinations
Find cheap transport to Auckland
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Auckland
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Find cheap transport to Wellington
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Wellington
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Our Verdict
Both Auckland and Wellington are incredible destinations. Auckland excels in sailing and volcanoes, while Wellington stands out for Te Papa museum and craft coffee.
Best destination for:
families
Auckland
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