Thanks to Wellington's compact size, brilliant attractions and stylish hotels, it's the perfect spot to enjoy a spot of leisure with your business trip. The coolest little capital is a popular city for business travellers, as it's home to New Zealand's central government, a booming film industry and an abundance of startups and tech companies. If you're stopping by the capital for work, here are a few ways to make sure you get the most out of the Wellington region.

Stay

QT Museum Wellington is the perfect spot to call home while in Wellington. This stylish spot will inject a bit of luxury into your business trip - it boasts a gallery-quality art collection displayed throughout the lobby, and a selection of newly-refurbished harbour-view rooms with excellent attention to detail. QT Museum Wellington is oozing with international glamour, and its in-hxouse restaurant Hippopotamus combines French influences with the best quality local ingredients. Located adjacent to the sparkling Wellington waterfront, and on the fringes of the CBD, QT is ideally placed for treating yourself while in the capital.

Park Hotel opened in 2016, and is located bang smack in the middle of Wellington's business area, a few minutes' walk from government offices and corporate headquarters. This understated and modern new hotel has all the comforts of home, including mid-century-esque furniture, spacious rooms and kitchenettes for longer term stays. It's also located not far from the Westpac Stadium, if you're keen to catch a Wellington Phoenix match or some cricket while in town.

Eat

Wellington is known as New Zealand's culinary capital, and is blessed with an impressive number of eateries - often said to have more restaurants and cafes per capita than New York City. It's no surprise that Wellington's fine dining offerings punch above their weight, offering exceptional quality meals and beverages to match in cool urban surroundings.

Logan Brown is one of Wellington's most established fine dining eateries, housed in an historic bank vault in a quirky stretch of Cuba Street. The detailed interior and freshwater aquarium bar make for ample distractions while dining. The paua ravioli with lime beurre blanc have been adored by locals and visitors for years - you can try just one, or order several to make a main meal. Logan Brown is not only committed to producing brilliant meals, but is also a highly eco-friendly eatery that constantly strives to reduce its electricity use and carbon footprint. 

In a dinky little wooden cottage just off the party strip of Courtenay Place is one of the city's most delicious and convivial dining experiences. Ortega Fish Shack & Bar is headed up by Mark Limacher and serves delicious kai moana (seafood) dishes in an eclectic yet refined setting. The knowledgeable staff are always at hand to suggest expert wine and beer matches for meals, and although Ortega is best known for its fish dishes, the steak is one of the best in Wellington. 

Drink

Wellington is also renowned for its wine, with the Wairarapa region just an hour's drive or train ride north of the city. The Wairarapa is home to a myriad of vineyards producing award-winning drops, and Poppies Martinborough is a must-visit. Poppies is run by the affable couple Poppy and Shayne Hammond, and is renowned for its elegant cellar door, restaurant and function space. The rosé is unmissable, and it's even better paired with the famed Poppies platter, a beautiful selection of local products including olives, cured meats, terrines and bread. 

If you don't have time to head out for a day among the vines in the Wairarapa, head to Noble Rot wine bar on Swan Lane. This sparkling inner-city haunt has an impressive wine list, from which you can sample local vino as well as some of the world's best. Founded by three sommeliers and a chef who love to share their passion and knowledge, it's suited to all wine drinkers, whether you're an expert or an excited amateur. 

Work

If you're keen to really get down to business while in Wellington, BizDojo is your best bet. This incredibly cool coworking space has flexible options if you're only in town for a few days, so you can bring your laptop and grab a desk, mingle with some of Wellington's most cutting-edge entrepreneurs and startups, and tick some things off your to-do list. 

Play

The Royal Wellington Golf Club is one of New Zealand's premier golf clubs, and it's just a short drive from Wellington city. This 27-hole course features an elegant clubhouse, stunning grounds featuring a backdrop of native forest, 18 new championship holes completed in 2013, plus tennis courts and a swimming pool. This historic club was founded in 1895 and was the first course in New Zealand to receive royal status.  

By Georgia Munn (Facebook)