Things To Do
in Wellington
Nestled at the southern edge of the North Island, Wellington sits on a windy harbor surrounded by green hills. The city blends a compact, cosmopolitan vibe with a world-class arts scene and a thriving waterfront dining culture. Iconic experiences include riding the historic cable car, visiting Te Papa, and catching panoramic city views from Mount Victoria.
Expect a temperate, changeable climate and a city that's lively by day and vibrant by night.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand's national museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and natural history of the country. After exploring the museum, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the stunning views of Wellington Harbour. Stop by a local café for a fresh pastry and a cup of Wellington's renowned coffee to fuel your exploration.
Spend your afternoon wandering through the charming streets of the historic Cuba Street, known for its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic shops. Grab lunch at one of the many food stalls or trendy eateries offering a variety of international cuisines. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the nearby Wellington Cable Car and take a scenic ride to the top of Kelburn for panoramic views of the city.
As the sun sets, head to the Oriental Bay beach for a relaxing evening by the water, where you can watch the locals jog and walk their dogs. For dinner, indulge in fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant, savoring the local catch of the day while enjoying views of the harbor. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along the beach, soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
Begin your day with a peaceful walk in the Wellington Botanic Garden, where you can explore the diverse collection of native and exotic plants. Visit the Lady Norwood Rose Garden, which is particularly stunning in spring and summer, and take in the fragrant blooms. Enjoy breakfast at the on-site café, surrounded by the beauty of nature.
After exploring the gardens, make your way to the Carter Observatory, where you can learn about the stars and planets in the Southern Hemisphere. Participate in a planetarium show that will take you on a journey through the cosmos. Afterward, take a short hike on one of the nearby trails to experience the lush greenery and stunning views of Wellington.
As evening approaches, return to the city center and visit the lively Courtney Place, known for its vibrant nightlife. Choose from a variety of dining options, whether you prefer fine dining or casual eateries. After dinner, catch a live performance at one of the many theaters or bars, soaking in Wellington's artistic culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚍Public transport single ride | $3-5 |
| 🎬Cinema ticket | $18-25 |
| 🍺Beer in a bar | $7-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city with easy access to culture, cuisine, and nature
- Vibrant arts scene and frequent waterfront events
- Stunning coastal and hilltop viewpoints with many photo opportunities
- High-quality dining options and excellent coffee culture
- Windy and changeable weather can require flexible plans
- Hilly terrain in many areas may be challenging for some visitors
- Some attractions are seasonal or require advance booking (e.g., Weta Workshop tours)
- "Kia ora" - Hello / Thank you
- "Kei te pēhea koe?" - How are you?
- "Aroha mai" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Haere mai" - Welcome / Come in
- "Ngā mihi" - Best wishes / Thanks
Places to Visit in Wellington
Visit one of these nice places.
Sweeping panoramic views of Wellington’s harbor and hills, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Iconic harbor shots with modern architecture, boats, and promenades along Te Aro Bay.
Stunning sea stacks and rugged coastline, ideal for dramatic seascapes and long exposures.
Food in Wellington
Wellington Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic NZ dessert often served with fresh kiwifruit and berries; widely available in pastry shops and cafés.
Must-Try!
Fresh mussels typically cooked in white wine, garlic, and herbs; a coastal staple you’ll find at seafood-focused restaurants and markets.
Delicate, light fritters made from tiny whitebait; a NZ specialty found at waterfront eateries during season.
New Zealand lamb prepared with local produce, commonly featured in bistros and dinner spots.
Creamy chowder featuring locally caught fish and shellfish; popular in coastal cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls along the harbor offering fresh seafood, produce, and street bites with views of the water.
Casual bites from food trucks and stalls, plus casual eateries in the central city.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Kia ora' or a simple 'hello.' Handshakes are common in business settings; casual interactions are typically relaxed and friendly.
Be respectful of Maori language and customs; ask before taking photos of people or marae; when visiting cultural sites, follow signage and guidance.
Take pride in keeping spaces tidy and line up queues; avoid blocking foot traffic on narrow sidewalks during busy times.
Safety
Tipping in Wellington
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not expected in New Zealand. If service is outstanding, a small tip or rounding up is appreciated, but many diners don’t tip. Some high-end venues may include a service charge.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is accepted but less commonly used in some venues; ATMs are plentiful.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming blossoms; layers recommended; keep a light rain jacket handy as showers can be brief yet frequent.
Warm days and long evenings, but wind can be strong; sun protection and water are essential for harbor strolls and outdoor dining.
Comfortable temperatures with colorful foliage; enjoy outdoor cafés and scenic coastal walks; rain showers possible.
Cool and damp at times with brisk winds; layer up for city hikes, museum visits, and cozy pubs.
Wellington at Night
Hiking in Wellington
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, popular hike offering expansive views across the harbor and city.
Coastal trail with dramatic sea stacks and ocean scenery; good for photography and wildlife viewing.
Network of forest trails within Karori, featuring native flora and birdlife.
Lush hillside trail with forested sections and river views, suitable for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Wellington by plane.
Main gateway to the region, offering domestic and international flights; about 8–20 km from the city center with options for shuttle, taxi, or rental car.
Smaller regional airport north of Wellington; useful for domestic flights and access to the Kapiti Coast and South Wairarapa via road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largest demographic in Wellington, complemented by Māori, Pacific peoples, and a growing Asian community.
Active cultural presence and language revitalization efforts across educational and cultural sites.
Visible communities with strong cultural events and foods in local markets and festivals.
Diverse and growing, contributing to Wellington’s culinary and business landscape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A major sport in the region; Hurricanes play at Sky Stadium and draw large crowds during the season.
Active in summer with local clubs and international fixtures at national venues.
Harbor activity and coastal access support water sports around the harbor neighborhoods.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wellington.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries offer vegetarian options; look for plant-based mains and veggie-friendly substitutes, and ask for cheese or egg-free choices when needed.
Vegan options are increasingly common, especially in cafés and casual eateries; ask about dairy-free milk, egg-free dishes, and meat substitutes.
Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests; mention cross-contamination concerns for shared ovens and fryers.
Dairy-free alternatives are widely available in cafés, with plant milks and dairy-free desserts commonly offered.