The southern end of the North Island can get really windy - the gap between the North and South Islands often acts like a funnel and the Wellington region cops the brunt of it – as the Cook Straight ferry and many passengers arriving at Wellington Airport can attest.

But on a good day... well, that’s a whole different story. It’s easy to forget all the rough days and agree with Wellingtonians that their city fully deserves its moniker of “coolest little capital in the world”.

Certainly, Wellington is a hip city, with plenty going on. Eating, drinking, entertainment and shopping options abound.

Over the Rimutaka ranges in Wairarapa, you’ll find Martinborough, only 82km away, and one of the country’s top wine regions.

Hit the Kapiti Coast, the west coast north of Wellington, for a visit to Tuatara Brewery or a wildlife visit out to eco-sanctuary Kapiti Island.