Which city is the southernmost capital city in the world?

Wellington is the southernmost capital city in the world. New Zealand’s capital sits at about 41°17′ south on the southwestern tip of the North Island, beside Cook Strait and the Wellington Harbour.

The city’s location gives it a distinctive geography. Mountains and hills hem Wellington in, while Cook Strait separates the North and South Islands. The strait also funnels strong winds through the area, helping explain Wellington’s famous nickname, “Windy Wellington,” and its reputation as one of the world’s windiest cities.

Wellington became New Zealand’s capital in 1865, replacing Auckland. Its position near the centre of the country made it a practical political choice, especially because the government wanted a capital with good access to both islands. Australian commissioners later supported the location after assessing its harbour and central position.

A common mix-up is confusing Wellington with the southernmost major city overall. Cities such as Ushuaia lie farther south, but they are not national capitals. Wellington holds the distinction specifically among capitals of sovereign states. It is also New Zealand’s political centre, home to Parliament and the country’s principal government institutions.