Wellington must-do's
There's so much to see and do in the coolest little capital. To get you started, here’s our list of the top things to do while at an event in Wellington
Discover our stories at Te Papa
55 Cable Street, Te Aro
If you're visiting New Zealand or Wellington, Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa should be at the top of your to-do list. Just across the road from Tākina, this national museum is a must-do, with six storeys of cutting-edge interactive exhibitions housed in an iconic wonder of a building.
Unlike any other museum you've ever visited before, Te Papa tells the stories of Aotearoa New Zealand through innovative and interactive exhibitions that are fascinating and fun for curious minds of any age.
Ride the historic Wellington Cable Car
Cable Car Lane, 280 Lambton Quay, Te Aro
Take a ride on the historic Wellington Cable Car for panoramic views over the city and harbour. For over a hundred years passengers have enjoyed the short journey between the bustling Lambton Quay and charming Kelburn.
On the five-minute journey upwards, the Cable Car rises 120m over a length of 612m, travelling through tunnels to the top of the Wellington Botanic Garden. It’s one of Wellington’s most popular tourist attractions and it’s not hard to see why.
See native wildlife at Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne
53 Waiapu Road, Karori
The world’s first fully-fenced ecosanctuary, Zealandia is an incredible slice of wilderness that isn’t what you’d expect to find a few minutes’ drive from the central city, but Wellington is all about the unexpected.
Named by Time Magazine as one of the World's 100 Greatest Places of 2019, walk through the home of native and rare wildlife, and soak up the natural environment.
Enjoy 360-degree views from the top of Mount Victoria
Mount Victoria, Hataitai
The best way to get your bearings of the city is by checking out the views from the top of Mount Victoria. Rising 196m above the city, the Mount Victoria Lookout has stunning panoramic views of Wellington city, harbour and hills.
After an invigorating walk from the CBD or eventful bus-ride up the hill, settle in on the hillside and relax while watching ferries and cruise ships sail into the harbour and planes fly in and out of the airport. Mt Vic is also one of the best spots in the city for taking in a sunrise or sunset.
Check out our world famous movie-making magic
Camperdown Road, Miramar
Tucked away in Miramar, a short drive from Wellington’s city centre, Wētā Workshop crafts physical effects for some of the world’s most renowned films and TV shows.
The design and manufacturing facility combines cutting-edge technology with hand-crafted artistry to serve up Oscar-winning props, costumes and creature effects. And, best of all, they open their doors to fans who want to see exactly how the magic is made.
Discover the world's tastiest laneway
Hannahs Laneway, Te Aro
Wellington's little foodie haven, Hannahs Laneway, is home to bakers, roasters, grinders, brewers, chocolatiers, and pizza slingers, who work collaboratively to bring life to a former industrial quarter.
Explore Wellington's best-known street, Cuba Street
Cuba Street, Te Aro
It's the home of the high/low: dine out on delicious $10 dumplings or a divine degustation at renowned restaurant, Logan Brown; see the Bucket Fountain and street art or cutting-edge contemporary art at one of the street's art galleries.
Wellington's home of the unexpected, the quirky, the alternative and the fun – there's always something new to discover on Cuba Street.
Wander the Wellington waterfront
Wellington Waterfront Walk, Te Aro
For a city perched on the harbour’s edge, it's not surprising that locals flock to the waterfront any chance they get. With a wide footpath that stretches from the Railway Station around to Oriental Bay and beyond, it's a perfect trail for walking, jogging or cycling.
Along the way you’ll find sculptures to admire, spots to sit and places to dine. Tākina enjoys close proximity to the waterfront, and on summery days, stop by Taranaki Wharf for a gelato and to watch as swimmers jump off a specially-designed eight-metre-high dive platform.
Have a Close Encounter at Wellington Zoo
200 Daniell Street, Newtown
Experience an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime Close Encounters with some of the Zoo's endangered animals. It’s also an opportunity to talk to the keepers and find out more about how Wellington Zoo cares for their animals.
Walking around Wellington Zoo, set amongst the trees in the suburb of Newtown, a short trip from central Wellington, you’ll see a bunch of extremely well looked after creatures in comfy habitats.
Visit the Harbourside Market
Barnett Street, Te Aro
On Sunday mornings, follow the crowds across the road from Tākina to Wellington’s oldest market. The Harbourside Market hosts a colourful array of food trucks and stallholders selling fresh produce, flowers, cheeses, breads, preserves, and locally-sourced seafood straight off the boat.
Experience Wellington’s nightlife
Venture out and explore the capital’s vibrant night scene, just a short walk away from Tākina and your accommodation.
Treat your tastebuds at one of the many cafes and restaurants – Wellington is known as the coffee capital of NZ with more eateries per capita than New York City.
Or swing by Wellington’s array of local bars or clubs, catch some DJ tunes, party or catch up with friends and colleagues.
Immerse yourself in art and culture
If it’s a culture fix you’re after, you’re in the right place.
Wellington is home to major national arts companies, including the Royal New Zealand Ballet and the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra.
Boasting award-winning museums, world-class performing arts, thought provoking street art, more than 50 galleries and a trail of colour street art and sculptures, let the capital’s vibrant art scene entertain you.