Wellington

Wellington is a vibrant and compact city, bursting with things to see and do. It is located at the bottom of the North Island, overlooking Cook Strait, and the spectacular hills and valleys of the South Island. Despite its size, Wellington has the highest ratio of cafes per person in the world. Pop by Wellington’s bohemian Cuba Street for a stunning range of cafes, go for a stroll in Wellington Botanic Garden or take a ride on the famous cable car for panoramic views of Kelburn and Wellington city centre.

Highlights

Wellington recently had the honour of being named "the coolest little capital in the world" by Lonely Planet. Surrounded by nature and sustained by creative energy, Wellington is a compact city with a mix of culture, history, nature and cuisine.

The Wellington locals are masters of casual dining, with plenty of great restaurants, night markets and food trucks. Fuel your day with strong coffee or savour world-class craft beer. Whether you want to dabble in history or indulge in delicious food, Wellington is a capital city with a great deal of style.

The bright red  Wellington Cable Car is a classic. Take a ride up from the terminal in the heart of the Lambton Quay shopping district to the lookout for panoramic views of the city. You’ll also find the Cable Car Museum, Space Place at Carter Observatory , and  Botanic Garden.

Things to see and do

Relax at Oriental Bay, Wellington’s golden-sand inner-city beach or explore the city’s fascinating cultural scene. If you’re into the outdoors, Wellington has action-packed adventure activities like mountain biking and kayaking, as well as beautiful walks around the harbour and surrounding hills. Hike Makara Peak track, as well as the City to Sea walk for stunning views.

Ride the cable car up the hill to Kelburn for panoramic views over the city. On the waterfront itself, you’ll find New Zealand’s national museum. Te Papa means ‘our place’ and it has been voted as one of the best interactive museums in the world.

Explore the world's tastiest laneway

Known as a foodie's heaven, Hannahs Laneway is the perfect place to sample local goodies and shop for a few quirky items. Stroll through the centre of the city and let your senses lead the way. Smell the freshly brewed coffee, baked bread and pizza's coming straight out of the wood-fire ovens.

Bike through vineyards

Take a short one hour drive from Wellington and you'll find yourself in beautiful Wairarapa, one of New Zealand’s premier wine regions. Hire a bike in Martinborough and spend the day exploring, wine-tasting and soaking up the sun.

Hike to a spectacular lookout

Hike up the Mount Victoria Lookout and enjoy stunning views of the harbour and lush greenery surrounding the city. Pack a bottle of wine and settle in for the spectacular sunset and as the sky darkens the lights of the city come up.

Experience the famous coffee culture

Well, it's official when CNN names you as one of the top eight coffee cities in the world that you know a thing or two about the beans and brew. With a good coffee place literally around every corner, your mornings couldn't get any better. Savour the quality coffee that New Zealander's have perfected over a chat with a local barista.

Culinary Experiences

Known as New Zealand’s culinary capital, you won’t struggle to find excellent dining in Wellington. Home to award-winning restaurants ranging from traditional to fine-dining and everything in between, you are sure to be delighted by the tastes of Welllington.

Wellington is also renowned for its beer scene. Around almost every corner you'll find a specialist brew bar. Not to be missed is the Harbourside Farmer's Market every Sunday. Farmers from Manawatu and surrounds bring their fresh produce to sell.

Craft beer

For craft beer connoisseurs, Wellington is a dream. You'll be spoilt for choice with finding a lively brewery to sample different flavours and discuss the science behind the foam. In central Wellington you can adventure through the city on self-guided tour of specialist craft beer bars. Brewtown in Upper Hutt is a craft beer village that is an experience in itself. With five breweries in one location and an entertainment area with various activities you'll be sure to have tons of fun.

Museums and art galleries

The  Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa is a must-visit. Packed with national treasures, it tells the stories of New Zealand's past. Six stories of exhibitions highlight part of the country's distinct art culture. The Museum of Wellington City and Sea and Pataka are also worth visiting to understand New Zealand's multicultural history.

Parks and nature

Wellington is a city surrounded by nature and ideal if you love wildlife experiences. Spot seals at Red Rock Reserve or make your way to Wairarapa to visit the home of endangered birds at Pukaha Mount Bruce. Visit Zealandia, an award-winning eco sanctuary home to native birds and tuatara. Go on boat cruise and spot a fur seal colony not far from the coast or spend some time at Wellington Zoo for an experience with intriguing animals.