Should You Live in Wellington in 2024?

I’ve lived in Wellington my entire life, and I’ve watched it evolve into the unique city it is today. But lately, things have taken a turn. While surrounding cities are growing rapidly, Wellington has seen only a meager population increase. In fact, Stats NZ, as reported by The Post, shows Wellington City’s growth rate was just 1.7% from 2017 to 2023. Is this a sign that the capital’s appeal is fading? For long-term residents like me, the answer isn’t so clear. Wellington still holds plenty of charm, but is it the right choice for new movers in 2024? Let’s explore both sides of the story—the good and the bad.

The Good

Vibrant Arts and Culture

One of Wellington’s undeniable strengths is its rich arts and cultural scene. As the heart of New Zealand's creative energy, this city buzzes with artistic expression. From music and theater to street art, Wellington has it all. One of the standout events is the World of Wearable Arts (WOW) show. WOW has become internationally recognized for its incredible fusion of art and fashion, drawing designers and spectators from around the world to witness garments that are less about function and more about imagination.

And then there’s Cuba Dupa, Wellington’s iconic street festival. Cuba Street, known for its quirky charm, transforms into a hub of performances, food stalls, and music for a weekend of fun. For anyone who appreciates a blend of tradition and modern artistic energy, Cuba Dupa is the place to be. If you enjoy being surrounded by creative people and an ever-evolving arts scene, Wellington’s cultural landscape is hard to beat.

Walkable and Cycle-Friendly

Wellington isn’t just a cultural hotspot—it’s also an easy city to navigate. While some cities rely heavily on cars, Wellington is refreshingly walkable. In recent years, the city council has made significant efforts to encourage cycling as a preferred mode of transport. The most impressive project? The Cobham Drive Cycleway, which is part of a broader initiative to make the city more bike-friendly. Stretching along the waterfront, the cycleway provides both cyclists and pedestrians with a scenic and safe route into town.

Given the city’s compact size, most key locations are within walking distance, and if you want to add a little fitness to your daily commute, Wellington’s growing network of cycle lanes makes that easier than ever.

Unbeatable Coffee and Chic Cafes

If you're a coffee lover, Wellington might just be your dream city. Wellingtonians take their coffee seriously—almost religiously. The coffee scene here is unbeatable, and you’ll never be far from a top-notch café.

Some of my personal favorites include Fidel’s Café on Cuba Street, with its laid-back vibes and strong espresso, and Customs by Coffee Supreme on Ghuznee Street, known for its precise brewing techniques and outstanding single-origin options.

For a cozy yet lively spot, Prefab is another gem. It’s spacious, yet intimate, and serves some of the best food in the city to go along with your cup. The café culture in Wellington is more than just a passing trend; it’s deeply embedded in the city’s identity, making every café visit an experience in itself.

The Bad

Windiest City on Earth

Wellington's geography makes it an interesting place to live. Unfortunately, that same geography also makes it the windiest city on earth. According to NIWA, the city experiences an average wind speed of 26 kph, thanks to its location between the hilly terrain of the North Island and the Cook Strait. While some locals might consider the wind part of Wellington’s quirky charm, I’ve personally found it a bit of a hassle. On particularly blustery days, you may have to fight your way through gusts strong enough to knock you off your feet.

Still, there are those who view it as part of the city’s character, adding a bit of ruggedness to everyday life. But if you're not a fan of being constantly reminded to hang onto your hat, the wind might become a real inconvenience. It’s worth factoring in if you’re considering a move.

The High Cost of Living

Living in Wellington isn’t cheap. In fact, it’s more expensive than Auckland by around 4.5%, according to Numbeo. That’s a bit surprising, considering Auckland is generally seen as New Zealand’s priciest city. Here’s a breakdown of the numbers: for a family of four, estimated monthly costs without rent are 6,642.2 NZD, while a single person’s monthly expenses come in at around 1,853.6 NZD. These are significant figures, especially when compared to national averages.

Housing is another area where Wellington hits hard. Rent prices are on average 16.9% higher than in Auckland, making it one of the most expensive places to rent in the country. Homeownership doesn’t come cheap either. The median house price in Wellington as of 2024 is hovering around 1.05 million NZD, making home buying out of reach for many first-time buyers. For a city that doesn’t boast the population of larger urban centers, these costs can be difficult to justify.

Decay of the City Centre

The heart of Wellington, the city center, has seen better days. One of the most visible effects of the post-pandemic world has been the shift towards remote working, and Wellington is no exception. With fewer people commuting into the city, foot traffic in the CBD has dropped significantly, and it shows. Many businesses have struggled to survive, and store closures have become a common sight. The most notable of these was the closure of the large David Jones department store, a retail giant that once stood proudly in Lambton Quay. It’s a massive loss, not just for shoppers but for the city’s retail landscape.

And then there are the Wishbone cafes. Once a staple for those looking for a quick bite or a cup of coffee, Wishbone had up to 10 locations throughout the central city. Sadly, they had to shut down due to the effects of COVID. Some of the stores still remain empty and unoperational even years after, with no new tenders for the shop leases, a telling sign of what Wellington central has become.

I’ve personally seen the slow decay of the city center over time, and while efforts are being made to bring new life into the area, the reduced foot traffic and store closures remain significant challenges.

So… Should You Move to Wellington in 2024?

So, is Wellington still a good place to move to in 2024? It depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re after a city with a vibrant arts scene, excellent walkability, and some of the best coffee you’ll ever taste, then Wellington offers a lot. However, the city’s high cost of living, notorious wind, and challenges in the city center may give you pause.

Ultimately, it’s about weighing the pros and cons. For me, Wellington will always be home, but whether it’s right for you depends on your priorities. If you can handle the quirks, Wellington’s unique charm might just win you over. If you are looking to relocate to Wellington, Big Camel are Wellington's Trusted Movers.

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