Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, having the second largest population in the country, and the largest capital in Polynesian countries. It is also the southernmost capital in the world. Maori name of Wellington is Te Whanganui-a-Tara. Wellington is New Zealand’s oldest city, and was the first landing place of European settlers, who came in four sailing ships. At first the city was located on the flat area at the mouth of the Hutt River, but since that area proved to be swampy and flood prone, the city was relocated.
Originally the town was named Port Nicholson, and only later it was renamed in the name of Field Marshal Arthur Wellesley, who helped the settlers a lot in those difficult times of land development and struggling for the right of existence with the natives. Unlike in Australia, the first European settlers weren’t prisoners.
A fierce earthquake of 1848 caused major destruction in the city, and 1854’s earthquake took many lives. Up till now the area on which Wellington is situated considered to be of high seismic activity. Despite this Wellington’s population grew rapidly, and on 1865 it officially became a capital of New Zealand. On its coat of arms proudly written “Suprema - a - Situ” ironically meaning “Great Location”. But not only earthquakes “threaten” the city. It is located on the ocean shore right in the path of the “Roaring Forties” - the strong winds coming through the cook straight. To the Maori Wellington is also known as “Windy Wellington”.
In my next post I will continue with this interesting story of this magnificent city, and the little secrets it hides, so that when you visit it you will know where to look for its hidden treasures. Click here for the second article about Wellington.