Windy Wellington Wonders: Cricket, Cable Cars and a Lancs Connection
- Two's Company
- Oct 19, 2025
- 3 min read
Starting our Sunday late morning from the Trinity Hotel, the walk towards the memorials was immediately invigorating. The route at times exposed to the elements which certainly offered a constant chilly breeze, yet the brilliant sunshine made the air feel warm.
The National War Memorial in Wellington was unfortunately under maintenance, but its sheer scale was striking, easily one of the largest we've ever encountered.
The surrounding Pukeahu National War Memorial Park, with its diverse planting and monuments linking New Zealand to Australia, England, France, Belgium, Korea and the Pacific Islands, evoked an incredibly powerful and peaceful atmosphere.
Despite the breezy Wellington air, the sense of reverence and collective memory was clear. It wasn't just about individual countries, it was about honouring a shared struggle and the profound spirit of togetherness forged in defence of what is right.
A short stroll away led us to the iconic Basin Reserve, the spiritual home of New Zealand cricket. The open Dempster Gate was too inviting to ignore!
Stepping inside was a sight to behold: an emerald green carpet of perfection in sporting surfaces.
A cheeky chat with one of the groundskeepers even secured him a special moment, a stroll right into the middle!
Standing where so many of the world's best have walked felt truly unique.
The ground itself is steeped in history, it was originally established back in 1863 after an earthquake drained a large body of water, leaving the distinctive basin shape that makes it the only cricket ground in the country officially listed as a national monument.
The afternoon took us up the hill to the Botanic Gardens via the famous Wellington Cable Car.
This iconic bright red funicular railway has been chugging passengers from Lambton Quay to the Gardens since 1902 and offers stunning, panoramic views of the city, the perfect lead into our pizza lunch at the top!
After soaking up the views and spending a few minutes having some sundial fun, we started strolling through the impressive gardens.
Our search for the elusive sculpture trail went slightly astray, leading us on a short but strenuous detour uphill through dense undergrowth.
It was a good laugh and a clear plot by Helen to maximise the steps!
The Duck Pond was serene and the Peace Garden was idyllic. (Peace Garden Flame More Info)
However, it was interesting to notice the difference in the Rose Garden compared to Adelaide where they were already in full bloom, here in cooler, more temperate Wellington, the plants were still full of tightly-closed buds.
The seasonal contrast is stark: the roses here are waiting patiently for a few more weeks of consistent warmth to burst into the full, glorious display that the warmer Australian climate already allows.
Finally, on our return walk back, along the coastal path, we came across a memorial dedicated to Richard John Seddon.
This was a particularly interesting find, as Seddon, one of New Zealand’s longest-serving Prime Ministers, emigrated from Lancashire, England. Specifically, he was born in Eccleston, near Chorley. It’s fascinating to see such a clear link between a small English town and one of the most powerful political figures in New Zealand’s history, a true emigration success story.
What a day, a perfect Wellington mix of solemn reflection, sporting pilgrimage, stunning city views and an unplanned hike! From honouring global heroes to walking in the footsteps of cricket legends and chasing elusive sculptures up a hillside, it was exciting, unexpected and completely unforgettable.
We absolutely loved the contrasts this city offers and are already looking forward to seeing what adventures tomorrow brings.
Wonderful photos..So far from home, yet in so many ways so close to home..as in climate, roses not yet in bloom in Spring, a history that brings us closer than the thousands of miles apart and of course Cricket!..what a moment and a memory. 😃😁 Well for One of Two's Company at least. 😁 the other sounds a little less impressed. 😂 Well only with the Cricket ground enthusiasm. 😄. Wonderful blog. T & G