Wellington

Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
25/08/2025
A striking evening aerial view of Wellington city skyline with vibrant lights reflecting on the waterfront.
Lucas W, Pexels

Wellington is recognised as New Zealand's vibrant cultural and creative capital, offering a unique urban experience nestled between green hills and a sparkling harbour. Visitors are drawn to its rich arts scene, world-class museums, diverse culinary offerings, and numerous outdoor and adventure activities.

For socialising, the central city areas of Cuba Street, Courtenay Place, and the waterfront are bustling with bars, cafes, and restaurants that cater to both locals and tourists. Te Aro is a notable social hub, especially for its vibrant nightlife. Numerous hostels across the city are known for their social atmosphere, often organising events like pub crawls, game nights, and dinners, making it easy for backpackers and solo travellers to connect with others.

Top 8 Things to do in Wellington

Experience Wellington's vibrant cultural institutions, creative film-making insights, panoramic viewpoints, and tranquil nature, all within a compact and walkable city.

1. Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

Explore New Zealand's national museum, where you can delve into the country's rich natural history, engaging cultural heritage, and contemporary art. It features interactive displays and national treasures, providing a comprehensive introduction to Aotearoa. You could easily spend half a day here discovering its diverse stories.

Cost: Free entry for most exhibitions.

Transport: The museum is centrally located on the waterfront, easily accessible by walking from most central city accommodations.

2. Wellington Cable Car and Botanic Garden

Embark on a charming five-minute journey aboard the iconic red Wellington Cable Car, ascending from Lambton Quay to the Kelburn lookout. From the top, you are treated to superb panoramic views of the city and harbour. The summit also provides direct access to the expansive Wellington Botanic Garden, a peaceful escape with diverse plant collections, themed gardens, and walking tracks. Exploring the gardens offers both serene relaxation and gentle activity.

Cost: A return ticket for an adult is NZD 12.00, while a one-way ticket is NZD 6.00. Children (5-15 years) pay NZD 6.00 for a return and NZD 3.00 for one-way. Children under 5 travel free. The Botanic Garden itself has free entry.

Transport: The Cable Car terminal is situated on Lambton Quay in the heart of the city. The Botanic Garden is located at the top of the Cable Car route, making it a combined transport and activity.

3. Weta Workshop Experience

Dive into the world of movie magic with a guided tour at Weta Workshop. You will gain insight into the creative process behind props, costumes, and special effects for famous films such as 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'Avatar.' The tour offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at a world-renowned creative powerhouse.

Cost: A guided tour is approximately NZD 57-59 per adult. For convenience, a tour including return transfers from the city centre is available for around NZD 99 per adult. Child rates (5-14 years) are also offered.

Transport: Weta Workshop is located in Miramar. If not opting for a tour with included transfers, you can take a public bus (e.g., routes that go to Miramar, typically costing NZD 3.00-4.00 with cash or cheaper with a Snapper card) or a taxi/rideshare, which would cost approximately NZD 25-35 from the CBD.

4. Mount Victoria Lookout

Ascend to the summit of Mount Victoria for breathtaking 360-degree views across Wellington city, its sparkling harbour, and beyond. Whether you choose to walk, drive, or take the bus, the panoramic vistas at sunrise or sunset are particularly memorable, offering a perfect photo opportunity and a sense of the city's layout.

Cost: Free.

Transport: You can reach the lookout via a pleasant walk from the city centre, a scenic drive, or by taking public bus route #20. Public bus fares typically range from NZD 1.50 to NZD 4.00, depending on the distance and payment method (Snapper card offers discounts).

5. Wellington Waterfront Stroll

Take a leisurely walk along Wellington's picturesque waterfront, extending from Queens Wharf towards Oriental Bay. This flat, accessible promenade allows you to enjoy public art installations, discover hidden cafes, and observe the lively harbour activity. It is a popular area for relaxation, people-watching, and enjoying the sea breeze.

Cost: Free.

Transport: The waterfront is easily walkable and begins directly adjacent to the central business district.

6. Zealandia Ecosanctuary

Immerse yourself in New Zealand's unique natural heritage at Zealandia, the world's first fully-fenced urban ecosanctuary. Here, native wildlife thrives in a protected habitat, offering a chance to spot rare birds like the kākāriki, tuatara, and possibly even a kiwi during a night tour. The sanctuary features extensive walking trails through regenerating forest and an engaging exhibition.

Cost: General admission is NZD 24 for adults and NZD 10 for children (5-17 years), with children under 5 entering free. Guided day tours are approximately NZD 60 per adult, which includes admission. Night tours, focused on nocturnal wildlife, are around NZD 95-100 per adult (minimum age 12) and also include admission.

Transport: Zealandia is a short distance from the CBD. A free shuttle service operates from the top of the Cable Car (Kelburn) and from the city's i-SITE. Public buses (e.g., Route #3 or #23) also provide access to stops near the sanctuary, with fares typically around NZD 2.00 using a Snapper card. A taxi from the CBD would be approximately NZD 15-25.

7. Cuba Street Exploration

Wander through the colourful and bohemian Cuba Street, an iconic precinct known for its vibrant street art, independent boutiques, vintage shops, diverse cafes, and eclectic restaurants. You will find a buzzing atmosphere day and night, reflecting Wellington's creative and culinary spirit. It is an excellent place to experience the city's unique charm and enjoy a meal or coffee.

Cost: Exploring the street is free; costs depend on purchases for food, drinks, or shopping.

Transport: Cuba Street is a central, walkable area within the Wellington CBD.

8. Wellington Museum

Housed in a historic 1892 Bond Store building on the waterfront, the Wellington Museum tells the stories of the city's social, cultural, and maritime history. You can explore exhibits detailing early Māori settlement, the city's evolution, and significant events like the 1968 Wahine ferry disaster. It provides a fascinating glimpse into Wellington's past.

Cost: Free entry.

Transport: Located on the Wellington waterfront, the museum is easily accessible by walking from the central city.

Check out our other pages on Wellington

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