Wellington Ambassadors 

On any given day you can join in some of the world’s most exciting conversations.

Here’s what some of Wellington’s stars of business, science, technology and the arts say about Wellington's creativity and innovation...

 

Rod Drury

 We socialise, work and live in close proximity, so networks and friendships are accelerated here and creativity flows. 

Rod Drury, successful technology entrepreneur and co-founder of Xero.com

 I’m big on debate, big on disagreement, big on different ideas. Wellington’s size enables diverse and different communities to come together allowing for those conversations from which creativity is born. 

John Allen, Chief Executive, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

 Wellington is compact, lively and beautiful. It's a gathering place for talent and creativity. 

Paul Callaghan, Professor of Physical Sciences, Victoria University and Founder of Magritek.
Sue Patterson

Once every two years in March the harbour capital of Wellington transforms into one of the world's great Festival cities.

The easily accessible theatres, concert halls and galleries come alive with the best arts from around the globe during the New Zealand International Arts Festival. 

For three weeks the Festival buzz is exhilarating and addictive for everyone who lives in Wellington and visitors who take part in this journey of discovery.

 Success and excitement is all around, it is so inpsiring and being a part of it is infectious. One of the most wonderful attitudes that prevails in New Zealand is that if you believe and if you just give it a try, success will ultimately come to you. There is no one restricting you from trying. I think that this is an attitude that Wellington – and Wellingtonians – wear with pride. 

Richard Taylor, Co-Founder and Co-Creator of the Weta companies
Al Brown

 There has been a food revolution over the past ten years and New Zealand has gradually gained confidence in its own cuisine, with Wellington at the heart of that. Starting with Peter Gordon in the 1980’s the cuisine scene here has pursued innovation and endeavours far beyond what you would expect of a region this size. Perhaps it’s because we are blessed with an abundant supply of seafood in our coastal waters and a top wine destination just an hour away, or perhaps it's because Wellingtonians are a generous lot who appreciate good food, fresh and simple.

At the end of the day, sharing food, trading stories and having a laugh with good people is what it's all about. 

Al Brown is a Chef, TV Presenter, Writer, Fisherman and Co-owner of Logan Brown Restaurant & Bar in Wellington, New Zealand.
Being in the Capital makes all the difference
Being in the Capital makes all the difference
"Wellington is known as a social laboratory, where we try out new ideas. We are a world leader in all sorts of things. That creates a very unique environment.”