Wellington has been named New Zealand’s best destination in the latest Lonely Planet guidebook, with the city branded “one of the coolest little capitals in the world”.
The new edition of the influential paperback – often described as the Bible for backpackers – says Wellington is the number one highlight for tourists.
But while Auckland, Queenstown and even The West Coast make the list, Christchurch is not mentioned among the country’s top attractions.
First published in 1977, Lonely Planet is the biggest-selling guide to New Zealand, providing tourists with recommendations on accommodation, restaurants, outdoor activities and cultural experiences.