AP

Maori, dressed in traditional warrior clothes.

Morning

Stroll Oriental Parade to the summit of Mount Victoria (196m) for great city and harbour views, then explore Karori Wildlife Sanctuary to see New Zealand's rarest fauna. Alternatively, hike to the seal colony at Red Rocks or visit the wildlife sanctuary on Matiu/Somes Island to spy on red kakariki parakeets, grasshopper-like wetas and tuatara lizards. Lunch at Courtenay Place – try a delicious seafood pizza at Zico Cucina & Bar.

Afternoon

After lunch, explore Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington’s interactive museum offering an entertaining insight into New Zealand's history and culture. Stroll the waterfront to Queens Wharf, learn about the city's seafaring traditions at the Museum of Wellington City and Sea, before viewing the original Treaty of Waitangi at Archives New Zealand.

Evening

Relax in the leather-upholstered booths of Logan Brown, arguably Wellington's best restaurant – try the wild boar pie with cranberry relish. Or join the yachting set at Martin Bosley's Yacht Club waterfront restaurant – try carpaccio of big-eye tuna or freshly shucked Clevedon oysters. Later, watch a musical at the St. James Theatre or party-on in Courtenay Place: check out the trendy Jet Bar or down a Chamomile Martini cocktail at the legendary Matterhorn Bar.

Flight Centre has New Zealand on sale this month. Fly to Wellington return from Johannesburg from R12 590. Visit www.flightcentre.co.za or call 0860 400 747 for more details.

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