Which city is known as the southernmost national capital in the world?

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Wellington is the southernmost national capital in the world.

New Zealand’s capital lies near the country’s southwestern North Island, at about 41 degrees south latitude. It sits around a natural harbour and is surrounded by steep hills, giving the compact city a distinctive landscape.

Wellington became New Zealand’s capital in 1865, replacing Auckland. Its central position helped the government serve both the North and South Islands more effectively. The city remains the country’s political centre and houses Parliament, the Supreme Court and major cultural institutions.

Canberra is the capital of Australia and lies farther north, while Santiago and Cape Town are also well-known southern-hemisphere capitals but are not as far south. Wellington’s exposed position in the Cook Strait contributes to its reputation for strong winds.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Oct. 2026

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