Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital, is a city that effortlessly blends urban sophistication with natural beauty. Known for its lively arts scene, world-class dining, and rich history, Wellington is also surrounded by stunning landscapes, rugged coastlines, rolling hills, and lush native bush.
Whether you’re a culture enthusiast eager to explore museums and galleries, a foodie ready to sample top-notch coffee and cuisine, or an adventurer looking for coastal walks and wildlife, Wellington has something for everyone. Its unique charm, creative energy, and welcoming atmosphere make it a must-visit destination in New Zealand.
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Accommodation in the Wellington Region
The Wellington region offers a wide variety of accommodation choices, perfect for any traveller looking to explore this beautiful and diverse area. From the urban heart of Wellington city to the scenic escapes of Kāpiti Coast and the Wairarapa wine country, there’s something to suit every style and budget. Whether you’re seeking luxury hotels, cosy boutique lodges, or family-friendly motels, the Wellington region has it all. With its mix of city vibrancy and natural beauty, finding the perfect place to stay in the Wellington region is easy, no matter your travel plans.
Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand’s national museum, is a must-visit. It offers interactive exhibits on everything from Māori culture and New Zealand’s natural history to art and contemporary issues. The “Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War” exhibition is particularly popular.
Wellington Cable Car & Kelburn Lookout
Take the iconic Wellington Cable Car from Lambton Quay up to Kelburn. At the top, enjoy panoramic views of the city and harbour, visit the Cable Car Museum, or stroll through the Wellington Botanic Garden.
Wellington Waterfront
The Wellington Waterfront is perfect for walking, cycling, or relaxing by the water. You’ll find cafes, restaurants, and street performers. Stop by Frank Kitts Park, Clyde Quay Wharf, and the Wellington Writers Walk to enjoy the cultural atmosphere.
Zealandia Ecosanctuary
Zealandia is a groundbreaking conservation project and eco-sanctuary that focuses on restoring native wildlife. It’s home to rare species like the kākā, tūī, and kiwi, and offers guided night tours to spot nocturnal creatures.
Adventures on the Hutt River
Wellington Rafting is an adventure company located in Upper Hutt, offering guided white-water rafting experiences and adventure combos on the Hutt River. Catering to all skill levels, they provide thrilling rafting trips through scenic landscapes, as well as family-friendly and group options. With professional guides, top-notch safety equipment, and stunning views of the Hutt Valley, Wellington Rafting is a perfect choice for both adventure seekers and those looking to explore the natural beauty of the Wellington region.
Film buffs will love the Wētā Workshop tour in Miramar, where you can learn about the special effects and props used in famous movies like The Lord of the Rings, Avatar, and The Hobbit. It’s an insight into the creative heart of Wellington’s film industry.
Wellington Day Tours
Kaewa Tours offers a range of private, customised tours that highlight the best of Wellington and its surrounding regions, including Kāpiti and the Wairarapa. Their flagship Wellington Scenic Full Day Tour takes visitors to iconic spots like Mt Victoria, the Wellington Cable Car, and the Weta Cave, while showcasing the beautiful Southern and Eastern bays. For food lovers, the Wellington Foodie Delights Tour explores the city’s diverse culinary scene, and the Wellington Craft Beer Tour provides an insider look at some of the city’s top craft breweries. They also offer a Lord of the Rings tour, visiting renowned filming locations around the region, perfect for fans of the film series.
Mount Victoria Lookout
For a stunning panoramic view of Wellington city, harbour, and beyond, hike or drive to the top of Mount Victoria. It’s one of the most accessible viewpoints in the city, popular for both sunrise and sunset vistas.
Cuba Street
Cuba Street is the heart of Wellington’s bohemian culture. With vibrant street art, quirky shops, eclectic eateries, and live music, it’s a great place to experience the city’s creative side. Be sure to check out Fidel’s Café and the famous Bucket Fountain.
Scenic Drives & Walks Along the Coast
The coastline around Wellington is stunning, offering opportunities for scenic drives and coastal walks. The Red Rocks Coastal Walk is a popular spot to see seals during winter, while Oriental Bay is the perfect spot for a beachside stroll or swim.
Cape Palliser Lighthouse
Just a couple of hours from Wellington, Cape Palliser is a scenic drive that leads to a historic lighthouse. Climb 250 steps to the top for breathtaking coastal views. You’ll also likely spot fur seals along the rocky shore.
Martinborough Wine Region
Martinborough, just over an hour’s drive from Wellington, is one of New Zealand’s top wine regions, known for its world-class Pinot Noir. Take a wine-tasting tour, cycle between vineyards, and enjoy the quaint village atmosphere.
Remutaka Cycle Trail
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Remutaka Cycle Trail is a multi-day biking route that winds through the rugged hills, forests, and coastlines of the Wellington region. It offers varying difficulty levels for all kinds of cyclists.
Wellington Zoo
Wellington Zoo is New Zealand’s oldest zoo, offering a great family day out. It focuses on conservation and education, with the opportunity to see native species like the kiwi and tuatara along with exotic animals.
The Beehive and Parliament Buildings
A visit to Wellington wouldn’t be complete without seeing the iconic Beehive building, part of New Zealand’s Parliament complex. Free guided tours are available, providing insight into the country’s political system and history.
Makara Beach and Walkway
Makara Beach, just a short drive from the city, is a wild and rugged coastline perfect for a day trip. The Makara Walkway offers stunning views of the Tasman Sea and, on clear days, the South Island.
Red Rocks Coastal Walk
The Red Rocks Reserve on Wellington’s south coast is a scenic and rugged coastal walk, famous for its striking red-hued rocks formed by ancient volcanic activity. During the winter months, you can also spot New Zealand fur seals basking along the rocky shoreline.
Kaitoke Regional Park
Known for its crystal-clear rivers and lush native forest, Kaitoke Regional Park is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and hiking. It’s also a key filming location for The Lord of the Rings, where scenes from Rivendell were shot.
Otari-Wilton’s Bush
Otari-Wilton’s Bush is Wellington’s only native botanic garden, dedicated to the protection and propagation of New Zealand’s unique plant species. With walking trails, a canopy walkway, and the iconic 800-year-old rimu tree, it’s a beautiful spot for nature lovers.
Hutt River Trail
The Hutt River Trail offers a scenic route for walkers, cyclists, and joggers, following the Hutt River from the city of Lower Hutt up into the hills. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy the natural beauty of the river valley, with picnic spots and swimming holes along the way.
Paekākāriki Escarpment Track
Known as the “Stairway to Heaven,” the Paekākāriki Escarpment Track offers dramatic coastal views over the Kapiti Coast and the Tasman Sea. This moderately challenging hike takes you along cliffside paths, with suspension bridges and steep climbs offering unforgettable views.
Oriental Bay
Oriental Bay, Wellington’s most popular inner-city beach, is perfect for a swim, a walk along the promenade, or a relaxing day in the sun. With golden sand and a stunning view of the harbour, it’s a tranquil escape just minutes from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Located on the Kapiti Coast, Queen Elizabeth Park is a large coastal park offering walking, cycling, and horse-riding trails through sand dunes and along the beach. It’s a great spot for a family day out, with plenty of space to enjoy nature.
Tararua Forest Park For more experienced hikers, Tararua Forest Park is one of the region’s best spots for tramping and multi-day treks. The park covers rugged terrain with forested mountains, deep valleys, and rivers, offering stunning scenery for outdoor adventurers.
