Travel Wellington: THE BEEHIVE

NZ Parliament House - The Beehive — The Beehive and the Parliament (photo by: Amateur Snaps!)

Named as such because of its shape, it is New Zealand’s seat of power. It is where New Zealand parliamentarians debate on issues. It is where alliances are forged and the future of New Zealanders is plotted.

This curious structure is a must visit when you are in Wellington. They hold daily guided tours where anyone can have a peek at the building. The best part is it’s for free. The guides are very knowledgeable about the place and should be able to give the visitors insights of the buildings rooms, history, artworks, etc. They also give the visitors the basics of NZ’s system of government and bits and pieces of what’s going on during the parliamentary sessions.

Pinoy Stop - The Beehive — Bronze statue of Richard John Seddon located at the front of the main Parliament Building (photo by: Amateur Snaps!)

When you first enter the building, you’d feel this air of importance to the place. You’ll need to go through security checks (x ray, search, registration, etc), of course, but as you enter you’d notice the marbled floors, high ceiling, long stairs, and chandeliers to say a few. After leaving your bags, coats, mobile phones, camera (yes, no photography allowed – bugger), you’ll be invited to be seated to watch a video about the place until it’s time for the tour. The tour then starts and your one hour of indulgence into NZs premier (in my opinion) building begins.

The beehive is located at the corner of Molesworth and Lambton Quay and is accessible by bus, taxi, or train. There are plenty of parking spaces around the place, too.

TIPS: Photography is not allowed inside but feel free to take as much snaps as you can outside. Be dressed for the weather but it should be light enough as you’ll need to leave them at the baggage counter. You can bring along your kids but be ready to carry them throughout the tour as prams and strollers are not allowed during the tour. Souvenirs are sold inside at a reasonable price. There are, however, many more shops around the city selling NZ/Wellington souvenirs at much cheaper price.

Article: PinoyStop

Photos: Amateur Snaps!

Address: Parliament Buildings, Molesworth Street, Wellington New Zealand

Open every day of the year, except Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day, 2nd January, Waitangi day and Good Friday.

Hours: Monday-Friday, 9am – 5pm / Satuday and most public holidays, 9:30am – 4pm / Sunday, 10:30am – 4pm

Guided Tour Admission: Free entry, daily.

For more info, visit the New Zealand Parliament Official Website.

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