Wellington, part 1

After crossing the Cook Straight we drove to a free camp spot about 20 minutes south of the city.  It turned out to be one of my favorite spots - we stayed there for a total of 3 nights (out of the 4 we were in Wellington). 

Our car's the second from the left.

Te Kopahou Reserve - a fantastic place to camp.

There are many walks in the area as well.

And volcanic red rocks.

And a visitor's center with a small museum and of course bathrooms and even a sink with hot water! (No showers though)

The historic government building, made out of wood!  Built in 1876, restored in 1996.  It is the largest timber building in the city.  Using wood instead of stone has helped the building withstand earthquake damage over the years.  It was recently "earthquake proofed," and they have left part of the basement exposed to show the public how it was done.  Interesting stuff.

Aerial view.

Old St. Paul's Church, a lovely old church downtown. They have since built a huge new St. Paul's, but this one is cozier.

Inside.

The new St. Paul's.  Inside it's painted pastel pink.

There's the side Lady Chapel inside the new St. Paul's, it was my favorite part.

"The Hive" Parliament buildings.  We took a tour and sat in on Parliament - they were very animated! The Parliament is split in half - the majority on one side and all the other parties on the other.  There were many calls of "rubbish!" and, "you broke the law!" And the speaker banging his gavel for order.  Very theatrical.

Another view.

The Reserve Bank museum - a "computer" that uses water to explain taxes and the economy.  I left more confused than ever before. Still neat though!

Our downtown campgrounds.  It's literally part of the wharf parking lot sectioned off with a row of showers and bathrooms on the right hand side.  The hostel across the street let us use their laundry facilities.  This campground cost $50, by far the most expensive camping in NZ.  BUT, we learned online that you can stay there for 24 hours - 10 am to 10 am the next day.  If you consider downtown parking costs (and this is a superb location), it was a steal!  And the attendant even let us stay until 2pm for free, which was very nice of him.  Lesson: having a camper in a large city is a huge hassle!