This is one of the cheapest places in town to stay, although that in no way means it’s the worst! I have to say it’s the coolest place I’ve seen, the walls are brightly painted with matching block coloured furniture and light curtains! It makes it feel like your staying in the guest room in someones home rather than in a motel! I love that they have either a cheaper backpackers room to choose from or a room in the motel that’s slightly more expensive.

This is one of the best places to stay in New Plymouth, it’s central, is cheap as chips, and has a variety of different rooms available. Sharing a dorm room with stranger or friends is so cheap at $30 per person per night, or you could splash out a little bit and get a room with a double bed for $70! The backpackers is located within 100 metres of the library, the museum, several cafes, centre city, and a great view of the ocean!

Sunflower lodge is set in the rural bush of Taranaki, taking you far away from city noises and smells; despite it still being quite close to town! It can be quite a useful place to stay in March when the WOMAD festival is on as it’s only a short walk to Brooklands Park! The facilities are very impressive also, they have a piano AND a guitar; that is so cool! My favourite part is their herb garden where you can help yourselves to add to your meal!

If you have the accomodation but just need a place to park it, the Belt Road Seaside Holiday Park has you covered! This is by far the cheapest way to stay in Taranaki, as the rate is currently at $24 per person, per night! Although is does require you to already have your own motorhome or camper, there are some options if you don’t, such as a cabin, or a studio, although this is a bit more pricey!

If all you want is a basic motel room with all the normal facilities like a mini fridge and an iron, then the Carrington Motel is where you should book for your next overnight stay! It’s perfect for a business trip or if you’re going in and out all day, as it’s only a short walk to the CBD and is the cheapest motel that is closest to Pukekura Park and the Bowl of Brooklands; perfect for WOMAD coming up!

Located in the heart of the CBD, Gourmet Stay is the perfect boutique hotel in Wellington to stay for a weekend on any budget. Choose from rooms with shared bathrooms or go all out with your own deck and hot tub! And if you can't be bothered walking the 5 mins to the rest of the cafes and restaurants then just dine in the amazing Frederick Street Cafe which is just downstairs. They serve some of the best coffee in the Capital.

If you want one of the best B&B in Wellington then the Evans Bay Homestay easily fits that bill. Pulling open the curtains to peer out across Wellington Harbour to the hills and ocean is a sight to be seen. It's perfectly located so that it's still only a short 20 min stroll (or 5 min drive) into the CBD while feeling like a world away.

There aren't many Backpacker in the world, let alone the world, that can lay claim to being fit for the Queen. Downtown Backpackers can do just that, sort of. In 1953 the Queen and her entourage stayed here when it was known as the Historic Hotel Waterloo. The beautiful decor remains the same and this is one of Wellington's best located backpackers right opposite the ferry and train stations.

Luxury doesn't come much nicer than at Greenmantle Estate Lodge on the Kapiti Coast. There are six exquisite suites that have all been designed with a different theme or feature in mind. Sit in comfort amongst the surrounding bush, relax in a gigantic double-spa bath or take high tea in your own sitting room.

The InterContinental Wellington Hotel is the choice for the discerning traveller with the budget to afford it. No detail is overlooked and no problem too small for the staff to deal with. The restaurants are second-to-none as our their facilities including the spa, pool, and fitness centre. You might also be lucky enough to stay here when the many myriad of film stars and international sports teams are in the city as it's often their hotel of choice.

There is no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing. The bush walks in Polhill reserve are all amazing, whether you go for 20 mins, or a whole day. Its a neat way to see the different little niches and communities within Wellington. You can walk right up to the Zealandia ridge fence, and definitely see some native birds.

This walk is one you'll want to come prepared for! I would recomend bringing along an amazing picnic to enjoy at the top while you enjoy the spectacular view.

Mt Vic is my go-to destination for central city hiking, cycling, mountain biking, and sight seeing. You can start from anywhere, and make the adventure as big or small as you'd like...Pack a picnic to enjoy on one of the many grassy knolls, and be sure you've got ample phone battery for those instagram pics!

Rimutaka forest park is a relatively short drive from central Wellington. The perfect place to submerge yourself in New Zealand's serene native bush, and get some exercise in while you're at it! Once you've worked up a sweat, cool off in the tranquil river, and treat yourself to a cold beer on the rocky shore!

Battle Hill Farm is a great place to take the family for a genuine kiwi agricultural experience! The walking tracks take you to some spectacular views, and the friendly eels are a great novelty also! Camping sites are private, and spacious, and the swimming hole will be sure to be a hit with the little ones!

There's nothing that screams 'Trashy Hens night' more than a bunch of girls dressed in fugly attire, running around the streets of Wellington with cock straws in their mouths and a long list of to-do's around the hens neck. Peaches and Cream has an entire range dedicated to hens nights wanting to recreate this whole look.

Alan's Party Bus is epic for Hens Night. With a complete alcohol licence on board, your girls can go crazy with booze, the karaoke machine, a few poles on board for general craziness and throw a couple of male strippers in there - an MC for the evening and go bar hopping - best way to make an unforgettable evening (or forgettable!) with the ladies.

If your next party has a theme, as most do these days, then the costume hire company is awesome for just what you're after. Unlike most costume companies, where you go in and get amongst the costumes yourself and get completely confused about what's what, the costume hire company will actually help you pick the outfit and customise anything to suit your next function.

When you're planning a hens night, alot of general 'stuff' is involved. Party Masters has it all. From the crepe paper to the crazy decor, Party Masters can keep your party cranking from the word 'go' with all of their products to choose from.

Hens nights are all about dressing up your Hen in a grosse tacky old gown and making her walk through town getting the list of items on her 'to-do' list ticked off. Well, Vintage Heaven have a huge array of beautiful clothing, with beautiful white numbers. So instead of going down the 'tacky' course, why not get a beautiful number that you know she can wear again? The lovely ladies at Vintage Heaven can help you out.

Probably the largest campsite on this list, and definitely the most viewed. Kaitoke Regional Park is at the base of the Rimutaka hills, spread over large flat grassy areas, there is definitely no shortage of space for your camping crew. Kaitoke boasts a formidable amount of native wildlife and fauna, more inclined with the original vegetation of the Akatarawa area. The activities available range from rafting, to walks and tramps for all ages, or just relaxing within the confines of the campground. The campground is probably most well known for its role as Rivendell in the Lord of the Rings and you can access the filming site though no physical remnants of the filming remain. Definitely my pick of this bunch purely due to its locality to both the Wairarapa over the Rimutakas and into Wellington, alongside the tremendously beautiful natural surrounding you find yourself in. Prices per night 18 & up - $6 5-17 - $3 Under 5yrs free

Situated at the western entrance to the Tararua Forest Park just over an hours drive outside of Wellington is the Otaki Forks campsite. Surrounded by river terraces and bush, with access to the Otaki river gorge, alongside a large variety of walks for all experience levels, you will be able to lose yourself in a place far removed from the hustle of city life. At only $6 a night for adults $3 for those aged 5-17 and free for under 5 it makes for a wonderful place to visit especially if your inclined towards tramping and walks in nature. Prices per night 18 & up - $6 5-17 - $3 Under 5yrs free

Out the back of Wellington, 12km past Wainuiomata is the Catchpool Valley campsite. Camp next to a stream and involve yourself in the nature that surrounds you. Placed at the entrance to the Rimutaka Forest Park, which by chance happens to have some of the best mountain bike trails available in the Wellington region if that’s your thing. With a multitude of walks available and large array of native birds and fauna, this campground is definitely worth taking a trip to. With full facilities available (that means hot showers) and the large array of activities that cater to all ages and fitness levels you can fully explore some New Zealand’s finest bush and maybe even see a Kiwi if your really lucky. Prices per night 18 & up - $10 5-17 - $5 Under 5yrs free

Travel out to Maitu/Somes Island, in the middle of Wellington Harbour, and discover a fascinating getaway. The campsite on Maitu/Somes Island is surrounded by historical buildings, one of which now provides the basic campsite facilities that are available. Completely powered by renewable energy, take one of the guided walks, or even volunteer to help out in the various projects available and take in Wellington from the completely different point of view. Take note that only 12 people are allowed on site at one point in time so booking ahead is advised. Prices per night 18 & up - $10 5-17 - $5 Under 5yrs free

Everything else listed in here are in parks or reserves, which provide grounds and some facilities. But if that isn’t your style and you prefer some home comforts while you ‘camp’ the Kapiti Holiday Resort could be right up your alley, with a shower and toilet for every campsite. Just across the road from Paraparamu beach and only a 45-50 minute drive from Wellington. Natural beauty is in abundance on the beach and an easy walk down to the marine parade, which has all the usual suspects (café, restaurants and other boutique businesses) offers all the modern luxuries. Family friendly with playgrounds and even a skate park close by, wireless is even available for those who can’t keep away from the net. Prices per night 15& up - $20 5-14 - $10 Under 5yrs free

Y’know the walkway that runs under the runway? That place is spectacularly bleak and I’m surprised that Youtube isn’t littered with emo montages by teenagers set there.

Have you ever been in the Railway Station with no one else there. That place is bleak as, man, bleak as.

Another place that when full of people is delightful and teeming with life, but when empty is an arena of echoing existential terror. Want to feel a profound moment of perspective? Stand on that stage without no one in the audience and look out at just the sheer space oppersively swallowing you.

The biggest problem with these printing-need moments is the sheer time-pressure. It’s like when you lose your keys, it quickly evolves from being a simply annoying situation to a spiral of reminders of all the mistakes you’ve ever made. So you want helpful and quick people on your side and if you can’t make it to Warehouse Stationery (it is a little out of the way), then Skynet is a good (and surprising relaxed) alternative. They can be very understanding.

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Breeze Property Management Wellington offers expert property management services: robust tenant screening, property maintenance schedules and how to achieve better returns on your investment.

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Rental Properties Available for Wellington

With its waterfront location across the road from Te Papa, the Museum Hotel is one of Wellington’s premier accommodation options, and a great choice for a getaway splurge. A privately-owned luxury boutique hotel, it’s also home to the Hippopotamus Restaurant and Bar, one of the best places to eat and drink in the city.

CQ Comfort and Quality Hotels is a three- to four-star hotel with a fitness centre, indoor heated swimming pool and a hot tub. Its central location, just down from Fidel’s on Cuba St, means it’s a great option if you’ll be based in the Cuba quarter for your stay, and the downstairs bar and cafe are of consistent quality, even when compared to the array of hospitality options in the vicinity. Be sure to check for deals on accommodation on their website before booking.

If your spring getaway’s on a shoestring, YHA has a great reputation as a safe, cheap and central place to stay. With rooms available at a variety of different price points, paying so little for a roof over your head leaves you more disposable income for the rest of your trip - and the fun stuff like food and drink.

A cheap, safe, no-frills hostel, Downtown Backpackers is right in the middle of town and perfect for someone passing through the capital city on a budget.

Funky guys’ casualwear. If I’m shopping for a guy, I always go to Hallensteins Cuba for great guys’ staples like T-shirts and jeans. Treat your boyfriend to some new threads. Great colours, accessories, and the stuff lasts. Highly recommended.

Can’t be beaten for top quality surf and skate clothing. The latest styles and designs - including a huge range of cool casual shoes - and they’ve often got deals and sales so keep an eye out.

Upmarket fashion for guys and girls. Here you’ll find denim, street wear and the best international brands. My favourite is the huge selection of top local brand Huffer. Treat your beau to a piece from Area 51 as an I love you he won’t forget.

Top quality suits and expert advice when you’re trying it on. They make you feel like a valued customer and they have the goods to match.

One of my fav stores for outdoorsy casualwear in Wellington. I’ve got some great deals here and I’m a member of their club for news and discounts. Sign up to the e-newsletter for all the latest info on products and sales. Great service, friendly staff - and top quality clothing and tramping gear in funky colours.

One of the city’s truest museums, City & Sea celebrates Wellington’s maritime history from the historic Bond Store on the waterfront. Check out Plimmer’s Ark or watch a documentary of the Wahine Disaster. Voted one of the world’s top fifty museums this year by Britain’s The Times.

Te Papa may be one of the most trafficked tourist attractions in Wellington, but it's certainly for locals, too. Whether you come in for a special exhibit like Game Masters or Warhol: Immortal (on now!) or to test your earthquake preparedness skills with a walk through the Earthquake House, you'll be sure to learn something new-- and have fun doing it. Te Papa is also especially helpful for those new to New Zealand like myself. See a bird on the waterfront and want to know what to call it? You'll find its taxidermy counterpart on the first floor. Come in on an afternoon, or stay all evening on Thursdays when the museum is open until 9 pm.

One of the best theatres in Wellington, a city known for its abundance of premium and art house cinemas, The Embassy is truly a classic. Built in 1924 and recently refurbished, The Embassy's art deco elegance puts you in the right mood for a truly great movie-watching experience. Make your way into the expansive main auditorium for an opening or a screening during the NZIFF; the sheer size of the main screen will astonish even more than the architecture that surrounds you. But don't discount the two new deLuxe auditoriums accessible through The Black Sparrow; while obviously smaller than the main screen, they provide intimate viewing in plush leather seats, and are worth experiencing in their own right.

The Michael Fowler Centre in Civic Square is not only one of Wellington’s most unique-looking buildings, for all that bright metal, but it’s a pretty swanky concert hall. With wide staircases, plush carpeting, and orchestra seating, you’ll feel inclined to wear a ball gown even when you’re going to see Garbage.

One of the most iconic symbols of New Zealand’s capital, come for a picnic on the lawn or a tour inside. Don’t wimp out when a friendly tour guide offers to take your photo.

A tranquil spot minutes walk away from central city. Good for a lunchtime walk or an evening jog you can sit by stream and contemplate life. Or if you’re already sorted: push some kids off the fly fox and have a go.

Sometimes you just need to sing. However, your flatmates often don’t like you belting out Bohemian Rhapsody while they’re trying to finish their really important cross stitch. If you’re in the same situation then head on up to the "Botans". The bowl is the perfect place to practice your opera singing… or just sit back and enjoy the fresh air.

Politics drives Wellington. So wrap your head around the inner workings of our democracy and take a tour. Stop by the giftshop on the way out and pick up some Parlia-MINTS. Oh the puns. Also a great place to just sit on the lawn and think about life and the way things are going.

This delightful sea-side cafe is in remembrance to the life saving club that burnt down in 2009. The beautiful food and old school atmosphere leaves for the cafe’s patrons waiting up to an hour during prime Sunday brunch time. The food and drink is well worth the wait, and I have never known of someone who has left disappointed. I recommend splashing out and treating yourself to a full breakfast.

There is nothing more relaxing than going to sleep to the faint pitter-patter of rain falling on the roof. Rainy days however, are not as comforting. On a day when it's grim outside I like nothing more than immersing myself in the newest Hollywood creation. The Embassy Cinema seems to make movie watching that much more spectacular. With it's elegant marble staircase, large selection of drinks and snacks, and large comfy seats it doesn't get much better. A day at the Embassy includes curling up eating M&Ms mixed with freshly popped popcorn, while enjoying someone else's fairy tale life. A day at the Embassy, is a day well spent.

For some reason, the trick to getting over a ‘hangover hump’ is often something sugary. I’ve found that a good source of head-curing sugar is lemon gelato, I’m not sure why but as it is a delicious form of ice cream I am certainly not complaining. If you are already clearing your head on Oriental, why not stop off at Kaffee Eis for a well earned sugar hit.

Te Papa is one of Wellington’s most iconic landmarks, and the Museum of New Zealand. The museum sports several floors with areas ranging from game zones and cafes to historical exhibitions and beautiful art and sculptures. Te Papa is a great place to escape the rain or just get lost in for the day.

If you are a fan of the galaxy and solar system, why not make a trip up in the cable car to Wellington’s Carter Observatory. This exciting star-ridden place is a hub for interesting facts and information about what lies in the worlds outside earth.