Profile of Wellington

Wellington is New Zealand's centre of government and the world's southernmost capital city.

Wellington harbour.

It is also the country's cultural capital and the third most populous urban area in New Zealand.

The city is home to many museums, theatres and arts festivals, including Te Papa Tongarewa (the Museum of New Zealand), the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, the Royal New Zealand Ballet, and the biennial Festival of the Arts.

Wellington – key facts

Key facts about the city’s population, diversity, economy, quality of life, arts and cultural scene, low-carbon status, transport, education, property market and tourism.

Wellington is also:

  • a leading centre for creative industries, such as film and computer technology
  • registered with UNICEF as a child-friendly city
  • the home of the New Zealand Stock Exchange (NZX).

The city is situated alongside Wellington Harbour and surrounded by natural beauty, including Zealandia, an award-winning eco-attraction just minutes from the central business district.

Our Wellington video

Check out this video, featuring former Mayor Celia Wade-Brown and Wellingtonians talking about our city.

Wellington economic monitor

The Quarterly Economic Monitor provides an in-depth description of Wellington's economic performance.

Wellington economic profile

See Wellington's economic structure and performance over the past year and previous years.

Wellington population forecasts

Read population and household forecasts for Wellington and how they are changing over time.

Related links