Atatürk Memorial
A poignant memorial honoring Atatürk, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Wellington and symbolizing Turkish-New Zealand friendship.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Atatürk Memorial
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A poignant memorial honoring Atatürk, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Wellington and symbolizing Turkish-New Zealand friendship.
"The view is absolutely breathtaking—standing there feels peaceful and powerful at the same time."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The climb involves steep stairs and paths. Good footwear is a must for a safe and enjoyable ascent .
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views are spectacular at sunset, offering a truly memorable experience .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Summit of the memorial
Breathtaking vistas of Wellington and its surroundings, especially magical during sunset.
Atatürk's Bust
Top of the memorial
A central monument honoring the founder of modern Turkey, a symbol of respect and friendship.
The Climb and Walkways
Paths leading to the summit
An invigorating walk with steep steps and paths offering beautiful scenery along the way.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Understanding the Memorial's Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The climb involves steep stairs and paths. Good footwear is a must for a safe and enjoyable ascent.
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views are spectacular at sunset, offering a truly memorable experience.
🚶♀️ Explore the Walkways
Enjoy the scenic loop walk, with space for activities if you bring a dog.
🤝 Respect the History
This is a significant memorial to Atatürk and a symbol of Turkish-New Zealand friendship.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The climb involves steep stairs and paths. Good footwear is a must for a safe and enjoyable ascent.
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views are spectacular at sunset, offering a truly memorable experience.
🚶♀️ Explore the Walkways
Enjoy the scenic loop walk, with space for activities if you bring a dog.
🤝 Respect the History
This is a significant memorial to Atatürk and a symbol of Turkish-New Zealand friendship.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Atatürk Memorial for its absolutely breathtaking views, especially at sunset, and its peaceful, powerful atmosphere. The memorial is deeply appreciated as a meaningful tribute to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and a heartwarming symbol of friendship between Turkey and New Zealand. While the climb is noted as tiring, the stunning scenery and historical significance make it a highly recommended destination.
"Beautiful view and monument. To get to the top you have to climb more than a few stairs which to me is more tiring than an uphill but really worth it."
Annie Mocke
"I’m deeply moved and grateful to see such a meaningful memorial dedicated to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of our friendly nation, Türkiye. The respect and thoughtfulness shown by New Zealanders in creating this park is truly heartwarming. Thank you for honoring the memory of a great leader with such grace and dignity.
The view is absolutely breathtaking—standing there feels peaceful and powerful at the same time.
May the souls of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and all the brave heroes who lost their lives on our lands rest in peace.
This place is a must-visit—not only for its natural beauty, but for the message of friendship, respect, and shared history it carries."
Can Onaran
"I am so happy to find this memorial in New Zealand . There is a huge memorial in Gelibolu , the city where I am from . Atatürk was a great leader , we are always so proud to had a leader like him . This war affected the whole world history. Important to know the details.
Good walk to go up and the view is great ,especially if you can catch the sunset. Ataturk’s bust could have been better, I hope it can be replaced with a better one."
Nuray Nurayhk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Atatürk Memorial is located in Wellington, New Zealand. Access typically involves a walk or hike up into the hills. Many visitors access it via the Eastern Walkway, enjoying a scenic ramble.
While specific parking details can vary, it's often best to check local Wellington parking information. The memorial is best accessed on foot, so consider parking in nearby residential areas if driving.
Wellington has a good public transport system. You may be able to take a bus that gets you close to the base of the walkways leading to the memorial. Check the Metlink website for routes and schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Atatürk Memorial is generally free to enter and visit. It's an outdoor park and monument, so no tickets are required.
As an outdoor park, the Atatürk Memorial is typically accessible during daylight hours. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific local advisories or seasonal changes.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the monument and Atatürk's bust, offering a place for reflection. The primary draw is the stunning panoramic view of Wellington and the surrounding landscape.
Yes, children can enjoy the walk and the open space. However, parents should supervise them closely due to the steep paths and stairs.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome at the memorial park, provided they are kept on a leash and you clean up after them. There's space for them to enjoy.
The time spent will depend on your pace for the climb and how long you wish to enjoy the views. A typical visit, including the walk up and down, can take 1-2 hours.
It commemorates Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, and symbolizes the friendship between Turkey and New Zealand, particularly in the context of the Gallipoli campaign.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers the most iconic panoramic shots of Wellington. The pathways leading up also provide scenic photo opportunities with the landscape.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged to capture the views and the memorial itself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
The natural beauty of the surroundings, combined with the rewarding panoramic views from the summit, makes this a fulfilling experience. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna as you ascend. The memorial itself adds a layer of historical interest to the natural exploration.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Context of Atatürk Memorial
This memorial is particularly significant as it reflects the Turkish perspective on the Anzac landings. Atatürk's humane approach, even towards fallen enemies, is often highlighted. His famous words, "Heroes who have shed their blood and lost their lives in this land of ours, you are now lying in the soil of a friendly country. Therefore, rest in peace. There is no difference between the Johnnies and the Mehmets to us where they lie side by side here in this country of ours..." are a testament to this sentiment. The memorial in Wellington embodies this spirit of reconciliation and mutual respect.
Experiencing the Atatürk Memorial: A Visitor's Guide
Beyond the views, the memorial itself, including Atatürk's bust, offers a moment for reflection on his historical importance and the enduring friendship between Turkey and New Zealand. The park is also a pleasant space for a short loop walk, and some visitors enjoy it with their dogs.
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