Wellington

Wellington is a challenging but rewarding destination for backpackers. Currently in the height of the Southern Hemisphere summer, the city is buzzing with energy, though prices for hostel beds and transport are at their peak. For budget travelers, the vibe is centered around the harbor and Cuba Street's alternative culture. While costs are significantly higher than Southeast Asia or South America, the city offers some of the world’s best free entertainment, most notably the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, which is a massive multi-story exploration of Kiwi culture and nature. To save money, stick to independent hostels near Courtney Place or the top of Cuba Street. Street food is relatively expensive, but Night Markets on Friday and Saturday offer the best value meals. Walking is the preferred way to get around the compact center, which saves on the high cost of public transport. Your daily budget will be dominated by accommodation and alcohol; a single pint of craft beer can cost $12-15 USD, so look for happy hours and supermarket runs. The social scene is excellent, as the city attracts a young, creative crowd of working holiday makers, making it easy to find travel buddies for South Island road trips.