Top Things to Do in Wellington New Zealand

Ever wondered what makes Wellington so special? This lively city is famous for being the windiest place on earth. It’s also the southernmost capital city in the world. It’s a mix of cultural treasures, tasty food scenes, and stunning views.

Whether you’re here for a day or longer, there’s plenty to see and do. You can check out the Te Papa Museum or try craft beers in the city’s top breweries. Let’s explore what makes Wellington a place you can’t miss.

Explore Cuba Street

Walking down Cuba Street is like entering a world full of energy and creativity. This 2km stretch in Wellington is known for its unique shops, lively street entertainment, and great Trending Cafes and Restaurants.

Start your day at Fidel’s Cafe at 234 Cuba Street. The bohemian vibe and strong Cuban coffee are perfect for mornings. Nearby, Midnight Espresso at 178 Cuba Street has a vegan and vegetarian menu and amazing coffee.

Logan Brown at 192 Cuba Street is a fine dining gem. It’s in an old bank building and offers a unique dining experience.

For a casual meal with live music, try Olive at 170 Cuba Street. Its open-air courtyard and live tunes make it a special place to relax.

Cuba Street is also known for its vintage shops and boutiques. Rag Mama Rag Vintage at 219 Cuba Street has retro pieces and free alterations. Madame Fancy Pants at 217 Cuba Street is a boutique and art gallery all in one.

At night, Cuba Street comes alive with Wellington’s nightlife. Laundry at 240 Cuba Street is great for unwinding. Matterhorn at 106 Cuba Street is famous for its cocktails and live music.

Cuba Street has something for everyone. Whether you’re after coffee, food, vintage shopping, or live music, it’s a place that truly captures Wellington’s spirit.

Ride the Wellington Cable Car to Kelburn

Taking the Wellington Cable Car is a must when visiting this vibrant city. It’s New Zealand’s only historic funicular railway. It offers stunning Panoramic Views from Kelburn that are unforgettable.

As you go up, you see Wellington’s dynamic landscape. You’ll see its bustling harbor and lush hillsides. The ride is a joy, but the top is where the magic happens.

At the Kelburn lookout, you get direct access to the Wellington Botanic Garden. This 25-hectare paradise has native New Zealand ferns, trees, and colorful gardens. It also has intricate walking trails.

Walking through the gardens feels like stepping into another world. The Botanic Garden hosts summer concerts. Artists like Thomas Oliver and Louis Baker perform, drawing locals with blankets and picnic baskets.

These gatherings add to the charm and community feel. Each pathway reveals something beautiful. You’ll see vibrant flower beds and ancient trees.

A short stroll from the lookout takes you to Space Place at Carter Observatory. Here, you can enjoy digital full-dome planetarium shows. These shows and multimedia exhibitions will leave you awed by the universe.

The gardens also offer walking tracks for all levels of hikers. You can enjoy a gentle stroll through floral landscapes or a more challenging trek down hillsides. You can explore historic sites like the Bolton Street Cemetery and Parliament Buildings.

The Wellington Cable Car operates every day except Christmas. It’s open from early morning to late evening. This means you can enjoy those Panoramic Views from Kelburn at any time.

Fares are NZD$5 for adults and NZD$2.50 for children. It’s an affordable and captivating adventure for all ages.

Visit the Te Papa Museum

Stepping into the Te Papa Museum is like opening a treasure chest. It’s filled with New Zealand’s rich history and diverse culture. I felt enveloped by the stories that have shaped this remarkable country. The museum offers more than artifacts; it’s a living, breathing chronicle where you can Discover Maori Culture and History in engaging ways.

The Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War exhibition was a highlight for me. It takes you through World War I from the perspective of ordinary New Zealanders. With larger-than-life figures and intricate details, it’s a poignant journey that makes you reflect on the sacrifices made.

The outdoor native bush trail is another gem. It’s a perfect representation of New Zealand’s stunning natural environment. Walking through, I was surrounded by lush greenery and could almost hear native bird calls. It was a refreshing break from the bustling city of Wellington.

For those interested in the island’s roots, Te Papa offers exhibits that celebrate Maori cultural heritage. The Mana Whenua exhibition is a must-see. It showcases ancient crafts to contemporary art, connecting the past with the present through visual storytelling.

• Vivienne Westwood & Jewellery exhibition: Opening soon, showcasing Dame Vivienne Westwood’s iconic jewelry.
• Āke Tonu Atu | Eternity by Hye Rim Lee: On display in Toi Art on Level 4.
• Passports exhibition: Highlighting the stories of diverse migrants to New Zealand.
• Events and Workshops: Year-round activities including song and dance performances, children’s activities, and expert talks.
• Mataaho Collective: Te Puni Aroaro: Running for 5 weeks.

Don’t miss visiting the museum store. It’s a wonderful place to pick up souvenirs that reflect Te Papa and its deep connection with Aotearoa. All these experiences make Te Papa a must-visit spot for anyone wanting to Discover Maori Culture and History firsthand while soaking in the vibrant narrative of New Zealand.

Hike up to Mount Victoria Lookout

Wellington’s Mount Victoria Lookout is a true treasure. The hike, known as the Mount Victoria Loop, is about 3.65km long. It has different trails for longer walks. From the top, you can see the whole city, including the bustling CBD and the airport.

The hike up is rewarding and not too hard. You’ll climb about 183 meters. Most people finish the loop in 75-115 minutes. Along the way, you’ll see beautiful views and memorial points that make the journey special.

Getting to Mount Victoria is easy. The number 20 bus from Courtney Place stop C takes just 10 minutes for $4. You can also drive up or walk from the city.

It’s important to spend at least 5-10 minutes at the top. The morning light is perfect, and sunset is even more beautiful. Dogs are welcome on leads, making it a great spot for family walks. So, get your hiking boots ready, bring your camera, and start the adventure on the Mount Victoria Loop.

Go Craft Brewery Hopping

If you love craft beer, Wellington is your dream spot! It’s known as the craft beer capital of New Zealand. You’ll find many breweries with unique and tasty brews. Places like Garage Project and Parrotdog Brewery are must-visits for your taste buds.

What makes Wellington special is how easy it is to explore. You can walk less than 50 meters to try amazing beers from different places. It’s like a dream come true for beer lovers!

1. Garage Project: It all started here. Garage Project began in an old service station in Aro Valley and has grown to three locations. Each spot offers unique brews that challenge traditional beer-making. Don’t miss their original taproom in Aro Valley for a real experience.
2. Heyday Beer Co: Located in Aro Valley, this brewery is famous for its 13 ever-changing taps. It’s a relaxed yet exciting place to try new beers and meet other beer fans.
3. Fortune Favours: In Te Aro, this brewery has 15 taps for Fortune Favours beers only. It has a welcoming staff and cozy vibe, perfect for enjoying local brews.

The Best of Wellington: Craft Beer, Food, and Festivals

Enjoying your beer with great food makes it even better. Rita, a restaurant next to 91 Aro taproom, offers a seasonal menu that changes every night. It’s a new adventure every time you go.

For those who prefer traditional flavors, Hiakai in Mount Cook combines Polynesian and Māori cooking with craft beer. It’s often booked months in advance, but it’s worth the wait for a meal that perfectly matches the beer.

Download a map of the top breweries and spend the day exploring. You might even catch Beervana, Wellington’s famous beer festival, which attracts beer lovers worldwide.

With the second-most breweries per capita globally, Wellington is a must-visit for craft beer lovers. So, get ready to walk, grab a pint, and start your brewery hopping adventure!

Discover the Wellington Botanic Gardens

When I first visited the Wellington Botanic Gardens, I was amazed by its beauty and calm. It covers 25 hectares, offering a peaceful escape from the city. It’s a place where you can dive into nature in Wellington.

The gardens started in 1868 on 5.3 hectares. Now, they cover 28 hectares. The Lady Norwood Rose Garden is a highlight, with 110 rose beds. In spring, the scent and colors are stunning. It won the ‘Garden of Excellence’ in 2015.

The Begonia House is a must-see. It was the largest glasshouse in the southern hemisphere when built in 1960. It’s filled with diverse plants. The Sound Shell, built in 1953, hosts events like concerts and weddings.

The Dell is a favorite spot- It’s a large lawn behind the Begonia House and it’s perfect for picnics or outdoor movies. Totally great place for both fun and relax.

Kids love the duck pond, fed by streams. Watching the ducks is calming. It’s a great spot for quiet moments or fun with nature.

The gardens mix native and exotic plants beautifully. They offer something for everyone, from botany lovers to those seeking peace. Every visit is a new adventure.

Visit the Weta Cave and Workshop

If you love movies, the Weta Cave and Workshop in Wellington is a must-see. It’s open daily from 8:45 am to 5 pm, except Christmas Day. Since 1987, Weta Workshop has worked on many big films, including the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Many fans wanted to see the workshop, so it opened the Weta Cave. Here, you can see costumes, statues, and weapons from your favorite movies. The Weta Cave starts with a 20-minute documentary about the workshop’s history and craftsmanship.

The guided tour of the Weta Workshop is a unique experience. With only 15 people per tour, you’ll learn how special effects work. You’ll see amazing exhibits like life-sized robots and cars, and props from films like Avatar: The Way of Water and Thor: Love and Thunder.

Getting to the Weta Cave and Workshop is easy. Take the Number 2 bus from Wellington’s CBD to Miramar. A bus ticket costs $5 NZD each way, or you can buy an all-day pass for $9.50 NZD. Tours should be booked in advance as they sell out fast. The workshop tour costs $25 NZD and lasts about 45 minutes.

Visiting the Weta Cave and Workshop is more than a tour. It’s a journey into the heart of movie magic. From the Embassy Theater in Wellington to the Lord of the Rings artifacts, it’s a place that captures the imagination of every movie lover. So, if you’re looking to explore movie magic, the Weta Cave and Workshop in Wellington is an experience you won’t want to miss!

Stroll Along the Wellington Waterfront

Walking along the Wellington waterfront lets you feel the city’s lively vibe. This two-kilometer path is famous for its scenic views, rich history, and lively atmosphere.

The Wellington harborside is filled with interesting marine structures, over 4,372 of them. This shows its past as a busy port. Since the 1850s, 20 hectares of land have been reclaimed from the harbor, blending history with modern leisure.

As I walked, I was amazed by the mix of old and new. From Queens Wharf to Oriental Bay Beach, the path takes about 30 minutes each way. You’ll see places like Te Papa Museum and the Love Lock Bridge, filled with love stories.

The Wellington waterfront is more than just walks. It’s the center of community events. Events like Waitangi Day, Pasifika festival, Homegrown music fest, and New Year fireworks make it lively all year.

Food lovers will enjoy the waterfront. Cafes offer fresh coffee and ice cream vendors have creamy treats. It’s a great place to enjoy the sun and sea breeze. Plus, there are art installations for perfect photos.

The Wellington City Council keeps the waterfront clean and safe. It’s great for walks, biking, and scootering. People of all ages enjoy this lively area.

The waterfront’s sounds and sights capture Wellington’s spirit. It’s a place to enjoy the moment, feeling connected to the city’s history and life.

Things to Do in Wellington New Zealand

As soon as I arrived in Wellington, I felt its lively vibe and endless fun. The city is full of free activities for all interests and budgets.

The Wellington waterfront is now a modern spot with amazing sights. Walking along the scenic Great Harbour Way offers beautiful views of the city and harbor. It’s a great free activity to enjoy the city’s beauty without spending money.

The Te Papa Museum is a top choice for culture lovers. It’s free to visit, open daily from 10:00 to 18:00. It’s a great place to learn about New Zealand’s history and see unique exhibits.

Mount Victoria Lookout is another must-see. At 196 meters high, it offers stunning views of Wellington. It’s perfect for photos and nature fans, even if it’s a bit of a climb.

History enthusiasts will love exploring Wellington’s army bunkers. These sites show New Zealand’s wartime history. It’s a thrilling and educational free activity.

The Wellington Botanic Gardens is a peaceful spot. It’s great for relaxing and enjoying nature. The beautiful pathways and rose garden are unforgettable.

Wellington’s food scene is also exciting. While not always free, Cuba Street’s eateries and street performances are thrilling. It’s a short walk from Lambton Quay, offering a mix of high-end and bohemian vibes.

For stargazing, Space Place at Carter Observatory is a great choice. It’s a 20-minute walk from the James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor. Though there’s a fee, it’s an educational and magical experience.

Wellington offers many adventures, like hiking the Paekakariki Escarpment Track or riding e-bikes to Scorching Bay beach. The city’s free and affordable activities make it fun for everyone.

Take a Self-Guided Welly Walks Tour

Exploring Wellington is now easier and more fun with the Welly Walks app. I love exploring at my own pace, and this app changed the game for me. It offers many themed self-guided tours in Wellington.

The app has lots of options. You can explore historical sites or scenic nature paths. If you’re into craft beer, there are trails for that too. My craft beer adventure in Wellington was unforgettable!

Using the Welly Walks app is flexible. You can start and stop tours whenever you want. I loved taking a break at Oriental Bay Beach for a swim and picnic, then continuing my tour.

There’s something for everyone with the Welly Walks app. You can explore history, nature, or craft beer. Download the app and start your unique Wellington adventure today!

Visit Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary

Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary is a gem just 4.2 kilometers from downtown Wellington. It’s a 2.3 square kilometer area dedicated to conservation. Here, you can see rare native wildlife in a beautiful, growing forest.

Zealandia is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm, closed on Christmas Day. Entry fees are affordable, with adults paying $24 NZD and kids aged 5-17 at $10 NZD. Seniors and students get a discount at $21.50 NZD. A family pass is $53 NZD for two adults and up to three kids.

Guided tours are $60 NZD for adults and $30 NZD for kids. They’re limited to 12 people, offering a personal experience.

Walking the trails, you’ll see New Zealand’s iconic species. Kiwi birds and kākā, the New Zealand bush parrot, are highlights. Summer brings dragonflies and damselflies near the water, showing the sanctuary’s health.

The valley has a rich history, mined for gold and quartz in the 1800s. You’ll see old dams and a valve tower from 1873 and 1908. Rātā Café offers views and refreshments.

The Zealandia Store sells local art, jewelry, and more. It’s a great place for a unique souvenir. Membership offers unlimited visits and special perks.

Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary is perfect for birdwatchers or those seeking peace. It’s a chance to see rare native wildlife and enjoy scenic trails. Explore this natural treasure in Wellington’s heart!

Conclusion

Reflecting on my time in Wellington, I’m amazed by how it mixes city life with nature. This recap is a reminder of the amazing sights you’ve seen. It’s also a guide for those planning to visit New Zealand’s capital.

Wellington has something for everyone. From Cuba Street’s buzz to Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary’s calm, it’s a city that offers variety.

The city’s culture shines at Te Papa Tongarewa Museum. History lovers will find it fascinating. The historic Wellington Cable Car offers views and a peek into the city’s past.

For outdoor fans, Mount Victoria Lookout is a must-see. It gives you breathtaking views. Nature enthusiasts will love Wellington Botanic Garden and the waterfront for walks.

Visiting in spring or autumn is ideal, with mild temperatures. But Wellington’s windy charm is special too. Spend at least three to four days to fully enjoy it.

There’s much to do, from craft breweries to Welly Walks tours. This summary captures Wellington’s essence. I hope it inspires you to plan your own trip.