The Must-Dos in Wellington
How can you possibly get bored in Wellington? With so many sights, ways to see the city, natural attractions to escape to, awesome places to eat and more, Wellington is a city packed with amazing things to do.
Whatever your budget, whatever type of activities you are into, whatever your age, you’re bound to find some fun things to do in Wellington.
The capital city of New Zealand is not just a political hub, it’s also the capital of coffee, movies, culture, craft beer and much more.
Explore the nearby hills and gardens while sampling some local delicacies. Engage in your hobbies with fantastic mountain biking trails, bookstores, art galleries, and much more!
Scroll down for more Wellington must-dos.
Plus, don’t forget to find a place to stay in The 50 Best Accommodations in Wellington.
The Best Way to Get Around Wellington (and See Most of These Attractions!)
Discover Wellington’s top attractions with Metlink‘s comprehensive network of buses, trains and ferries! It’s a convenient and affordable way to explore must-see spots like Te Papa Museum and Zealandia (more on these amazing attractions below).
We personally recommend taking Bus Route 2 for a scenic tour of Wellington’s highlights, while The Spinoff recently praised the Number 24 bus as “Wellington’s most scenic commute”. Either one is a fantastic way to see the sights and get a feel for the city’s layout!
Learn more about this picturesque route on the Metlink website or check out the handy Route 2 Brochure for detailed information.
Now, let’s get into the list of the best things to do in Wellington!
Table of Contents
Discover Wellington the Easy, Affordable, and Eco-Friendly Way — with Route 2
Whether you’re visiting a single attraction or spending a couple of days exploring the city, Route 2 is the smartest way to see Wellington. It’s convenient, great value, and kind to the planet.
Great Value for Money
Fares depend on how you choose to pay, but all journeys within Wellington City – including Route 2 – cover no more than 3 fare zones. A full day of travel can cost as little as $13, making it one of the most affordable ways to explore.
© NZPocketGuide.com
© NZPocketGuide.com1. See Native Wildlife at Zealandia
Zealandia is an award-winning eco-sanctuary just 10 minutes from Wellington city centre. This fully-fenced urban wildlife refuge offers a unique glimpse into New Zealand’s pre-human ecosystem. The sanctuary showcases over 40 native bird species, including the charismatic kākā, melodious tūī, and the elusive little spotted kiwi.
During our last visit, we were delighted by the sight of ancient tuatara basking in the sun and giant wētā scurrying through the undergrowth.
We recommend the night tour where you might hear the haunting call of the ruru (morepork) or even spot a kiwi in its natural habitat.
For more wildlife activities, see 5 Spots to Experience Wellington Wildlife.
Location: 53 Waiapu Road, Karori. Free shuttle services operate from the Wellington i-SITE. It’s also bus stop: Zealandia – Chaytor Street at Tunnel on Bus Route 2.
© NZPocketGuide.com2. Visit the Wellington Botanic Garden
One of the best FREE things to do in Wellington is to explore the stunning Wellington Botanic Garden. Spanning 25 hectares, this scenic escape offers a delightful blend of themed gardens, native bush, and panoramic city views.
We love strolling through the colourful rose gardens, admiring exotic succulents, and wandering beneath towering trees.
For the best experience, we recommend taking the iconic Wellington Cable Car up to the garden’s entrance. From there, you can enjoy breathtaking harbour views before meandering downhill through this urban paradise.
For more free activities, see 20 Free or Cheap Things to Do in Wellington.
Location: 101 Glenmore Street, Kelburn, Wellington, North Island. Accessible via Wellington Cable Car from Lambton Quay in the city centre.
© WellingtonNZ3. Climb Mt Victoria
For one of Wellington’s most iconic views, take on the walk up Mount Victoria. At 196 metres above sea level, this popular lookout offers breathtaking 360° panoramic views of the city, harbour, and surrounding hills.
On your way up, keep an eye out for tūī and fantails, and you might even spot filming locations used in The Lord of the Rings.
For a longer adventure, link up with the Southern Walkway.
Get more information in our 10 Best Walks in Wellington.
Location: At the eastern end of Courtenay Place, cross Cambridge Terrace and Kent Terrace; walk along Majoribanks Street until you see the sign to the Southern Walkway. Follow the Summit Walkway to the lookout!
© WellingtonNZ4. Visit the Film Locations Around Wellington
Wellington, affectionately known as “Wellywood”, is a mecca for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit enthusiasts. The region played a starring role in Peter Jackson’s iconic trilogies, offering a treasure trove of filming locations.
We love taking guided tours to explore these cinematic spots, including Mt Victoria (Hobbiton Woods), Kaitoke Regional Park (Rivendell), Harcourt Park (Isengard), and the Hutt River (River Anduin).
Knowledgeable guides share fascinating behind-the-scenes stories and show location stills, bringing the magic of Middle-earth to life. Many tours include a visit to Weta Workshop, where movie props and costumes were crafted, offering a glimpse into the artistry behind the films.
Check out 15 Best Film Locations in Wellington for Movie Buffs to organise your own self-guided tour.
Location: See the link above for specific locations.
© NZPocketGuide.com5. Grab a Coffee
Wellington truly lives up to its “Coffee Capital” moniker! The city’s compact layout makes it perfect for café-hopping, with a wealth of boutique roasters and independent coffee shops dotting the streets.
Some of New Zealand’s best espresso can be found at spots like Flight Coffee Hangar, Pour & Twist, Havana Coffee Works, and Coffee Supreme. We can’t get enough of the flat whites here, they’re taken seriously and crafted to perfection.
While exploring Cuba Street, Willis Street, or the hidden laneways, take time to sit, sip, and soak up the creative vibe that defines Wellington’s thriving café scene.
It’s unlikely that you’ll find a “bad” coffee in Wellington, but if you need inspiration, try the 5 Cool Cafes With the Best Coffee in Wellington.
Location: See the link above for specific locations.
© Phoebe Mackenzie - WellingtonNZ6. Ride the Cable Car
The historic Wellington Cable Car is a charming and iconic attraction that’s been delighting visitors since 1902. We love this quick yet scenic journey from Lambton Quay in the CBD to the hilltop suburb of Kelburn.
At the top, you’ll find the Wellington Botanic Garden, Space Place (the city’s observatory), and the free Cable Car Museum, which tells the fascinating story of this beloved transport.
Running every 10 minutes, it’s a fun, nostalgic way to experience Wellington’s unique charm and panoramic vistas.
Location: 280 Lambton Quay. Stop at Lambton Quay at Cable Car Lane on Bus Route 2!
© NZPocketGuide.com7. Get Active at Adrenalin Forest
For an exhilarating outdoor challenge, head to Adrenalin Forest in Porirua, just north of Wellington.
This high-wire adventure park offers a thrilling experience with multiple levels of obstacle courses set among the treetops. You’ll find yourself climbing rope ladders, balancing on swinging logs, and zipping through the forest canopy.
The course is designed to be progressive, starting low and easy before increasing in height and difficulty.
Take the bus or train or drive to Adrenalin Forest just outside of Porirua.
Additionally, see more experiences like this in the 10 Things to Do in Wellington with Kids.
Location: Okowai Road, Aotea, Porirua.
© NZPocketGuide.com8. Kayak Around the Harbour
Experience Wellington’s stunning harbour from a unique perspective by kayaking along its picturesque waterfront. Fergs Kayaks on the waterfront offers both freedom hire and guided tours, allowing you to paddle past Oriental Bay, the Boat Shed, and out towards Point Jerningham.
For those seeking a different vantage point, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) are also available. Couples and friends can opt for double kayaks, while guided tours are perfect for those wanting local insights. In Lower Hutt, Wildfinder at Days Bay provides additional kayaking opportunities.
Location: Fergs Kayaks – Queens Wharf, Jervois Quay. Wildfinder – Days Bay, Lower Hutt.
© Steven dosRemedios on Flickr9. Grab Some Great Food!
Wellington’s vibrant food scene is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. From award-winning fine dining to hidden laneway gems, the city delivers big on flavour.
Cuba Street is the heart of the foodie action, where you’ll find cult favourites like 1154 Pastaria and Loretta For something special, book a table at Logan Brown.
On a budget? Try Fisherman’s Plate or the Capital Market for a global mix of eats.
Whether you’re after a quick bite or a degustation menu, Wellington’s food culture is rich, exciting, and worth exploring with an open mind and a hungry appetite.
Get more suggestions in The Food Guide to Wellington.
Location: Wellington Trawling Market – 220 Cuba Street. Capital Market – 151 Willis Street. Dockside – 3 Queens Wharf.
© NZPocketGuide.com10. Take the Ferry to Matiu Somes Island
Matiu/Somes Island, nestled in the heart of Wellington Harbour, is a fascinating predator-free scientific reserve. This unique island offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and rich history. Once a Māori pā site, military outpost, and quarantine station, it’s now a peaceful haven for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
We’re big fans of the easy walking tracks that circle the island, complete with interpretive signs and scenic lookouts. Keep an eye out for native birds like kākāriki and little blue penguins, as well as wetas and tuatara. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic and exploration, but remember to bring your own food and water – there’s no café on the island.
Ferries depart from Queens Wharf in central Wellington, and bookings are essential. We recommend allowing at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate all the island has to offer.
Location: Queens Wharf. Learn more about how to catch the ferry on the Metlink website.
© WellingtonNZ11. Hire a Mountain Bike and Hit the Trails
Wellington’s rugged terrain makes it a mountain biker’s paradise, with trails for all skill levels right on the city’s doorstep. From gentle riverside paths to challenging downhill tracks, there’s something for everyone.
Makara Peak Mountain Bike Park is a local favourite, boasting over 40 km of well-maintained trails through regenerating native bush. Beginners can start with the flat “Hutt River Trail” or “Petone foreshore”, while more experienced riders might tackle the “Wainuiomata Trail Park” or venture out to the “Remutaka Cycle Trail”.
Take a look at our guide to Mountain Biking in Wellington for information on most of the bike trails in the region.
Location: See the link above for specific locations.
© Caleb Smith Photography - WellingtonNZ12. Watch a Movie at a Boutique Cinema
Wellington’s film culture extends far beyond The Lord of the Rings. The city boasts several boutique cinemas offering unique experiences that go well beyond the standard multiplex.
The iconic Embassy Theatre on Courtenay Place is a must-visit. This historic venue, which hosted the Return of the King premiere, offers plush seats, a grand auditorium and curated screenings.
For a cosy and artsy experience, head to Lighthouse Petone, known for its arthouse films and great snacks. Deluxe Cinemas in Petone and The Roxy in Miramar add a touch of vintage glamour with licensed bars and plush décor.
See more indoor activities in the 10 Things to Do in Wellington on a Rainy Day.
Location: The Embassy Theatre – 10 Kent Terrace, Te Aro. Lighthouse Cuba – 29 Wigan Street, Te Aro. Deluxe Cinemas – 25 Roxburgh Street, Petone. The Roxy – 5 Park Road, Miramar.
© Phoebe MAckenzie - WellingtonNZ13. Go Bookshop-Hopping
Wellington is a paradise for bibliophiles, with its compact CBD brimming with literary treasures. Unity Books, a beloved hub, curates an impressive selection of new releases and Kiwi authors.
For rare finds, venture into Pegasus Books in the Left Bank Arcade. The Ferret Bookshop and Book Haven in Newtown offer eclectic collections for the curious reader.
Many shops boast cosy nooks perfect for leisurely browsing.
For a full list of bookshops and their locations, check out 10 Wonderful Wellington Bookshops for Bookworms.
Location: Various locations throughout Wellington’s CBD and suburbs. See the link above for specific addresses.
© Celeste Fontein - WellingtonNZ14. Take a Walk Through the Otari-Wilton’s Bush
Otari-Wilton’s Bush is New Zealand’s only public botanic garden dedicated solely to native plants. This 100-hectare reserve, just 15 minutes from Wellington’s city centre, offers a serene escape for nature enthusiasts.
Well-maintained trails wind past towering rimu and tōtara trees, leading to a canopy walkway, waterfalls, and forest clearings alive with native birdsong.
The site includes an alpine garden and a traditional Māori plant-use area, perfect for easy bushwalks, picnics, or photography.
Entry is free, and there’s both parking and public transport access.
See more endearing places like this in the 10 Romantic Activities in Wellington.
Location: Wilton Road, Wilton. Take the Number 14 Wilton Bus from Lambton Quay.
© Akos Kokai on Wikipedia15. Try Some Local Craft Beer
Wellington is New Zealand’s craft beer capital, boasting a vibrant scene of award-winning breweries and bars.
Start your hoppy adventure at Garage Project in Aro Valley, a creative powerhouse known for wild flavours. Then, make your way to Parrotdog in Lyall Bay, Whistling Sisters near Cuba Street, and Heyday Beer Co. with its pastel tones and vibrant vibe.
For variety, try tasting paddles or join a guided beer tour for insider stories and samples. Beer bars like Golding’s Free Dive and Little Beer Quarter offer rotating taps and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a hop-head or a casual sipper, Wellington’s beer scene has something for everyone.
See 15 Breweries & Craft Beer Bars in Wellington for recommendations and locations. Plus, check out the 10 Things to Do in Wellington for Foodies for similar activities.
Location: Various locations throughout Wellington city, North Island. See the link above for specific addresses.
© WellingtonNZ16. Visit Space Place (The Carter Observatory)
Get a little closer to the stars through Space Place‘s historic Thomas Cooke telescope, planetarium and more!
Learn about the stars, galaxies and planets seen from the Southern Hemisphere through interactive exhibitions and displays, as well as the planetarium shows.
On clear nights, you can look through the giant telescope, with planetarium shows and nighttime viewings typically starting at 9 pm.
Location: 40 Salamanca Road, Kelburn (Wellington Botanic Garden).
© WellingtonNZ17. Visit the Te Papa Museum
Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand’s national museum, is a must-visit attraction in Wellington. This interactive wonderland offers an immersive journey through the country’s natural history, Māori culture, art and social heritage.
Highlights include the colossal squid, the Gallipoli exhibit created by Weta Workshop, and the Māori meeting house. With five levels of engaging displays, you could easily spend hours exploring. Entry is free, though some special exhibitions may have a fee.
For more reasons to visit, see 10 Reasons Why The Te Papa Museum is Simply Unmissable.
Location: 55 Cable Street, Wellington, North Island. On the waterfront in central Wellington.
© Phoebe Mackenzie - WellingtonNZ18. Explore the Greater Wellington Region!
Wellington is the perfect launchpad for discovering the diverse Greater Wellington region. From the city, you can easily venture out to stunning coastal areas, lush forests, and charming wine country.
Head north to the Kapiti Coast for laid-back beach towns and nature reserves like Kapiti Island. Or take the train to the Hutt Valley for riverside walks and heritage sites such as Petone Settlers Museum.
Nature lovers will adore Kaitoke Regional Park (aka Rivendell) with its crystal-clear swimming holes. For wine enthusiasts, the Wairarapa region offers vineyard tours and tastings in Martinborough.
With excellent public transport and regional trails, Greater Wellington is ripe for exploration. Don’t forget your day pack and sense of adventure!
Location: See the links above for recommendations on locations to visit.
© Mike Heydon - WellingtonNZ19. Go to the Beach
Wellington might surprise you with its fantastic urban beaches. Oriental Bay, the city’s golden-sand hotspot, is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or people-watching along the promenade.
Surfers flock to Lyall Bay to catch waves, and it’s also great for a fish-and-chip picnic or a dog walk. For a more secluded vibe, head to Scorching Bay or Breaker Bay, both scenic and peaceful with stunning views across the harbour or Cook Strait.
Most beaches have nearby cafés, grassy areas, and walking tracks. While the water can be chilly, it’s a refreshing dip after exploring the city in summer.
Find out more about the beaches you can visit in the 10 Beaches in Wellington You Can’t Miss.
Location: See specific locations in the link above.
© Celeste Fontein - WellingtonNZ20. Stroll the Waterfront
According to our very own travel manager, Robin, Wellington’s waterfront promenade is a must-visit attraction. The 2.5 km path stretches from Queens Wharf to Oriental Bay, offering a picturesque route for walking or cycling.
Along the way, you’ll encounter vibrant public art installations, charming boardwalks, and the historic boatsheds at Clyde Quay.
We love stopping at the harbour-side cafés for a quick bite or refreshing drink.
Location: Waterfront, Wellington, North Island. The path runs along the harbour’s edge from Queens Wharf to Oriental Bay.
© Ryan Domenico - WellingtonNZ21. Ride the Remutaka Cycle Trail
Experience one of New Zealand’s Great Rides on the Remutaka Cycle Trail. This unforgettable journey takes you through diverse landscapes, starting from Petone Foreshore and following the Hutt River Trail before venturing into the scenic Remutaka Ranges.
The most popular section is the Remutaka Rail Trail, an easy ride suitable for all fitness levels. Cycle through tunnels and over restored bridges, immersing yourself in lush forests and picturesque farmland.
E-bikes are welcome, and shuttle and bike rental services are available from Wellington and Upper Hutt.
Find out more about the 10 Great Bike Trails on North Island.
Location: The trail can be started from Petone Foreshore or Maymorn in Upper Hutt.
© NZPocketGuide.com22. Experience Movie Magic at the Weta Cave and Workshop
For film enthusiasts, especially fans of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, a visit to the Weta Cave and Workshop in Miramar is a must.
The Weta Workshop tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at prop, special effect, and creature creation for major films.
You’ll see actual models, miniatures, and weapons used in blockbusters, and might even catch artists at work. The Cave itself is a compact museum and shop showcasing Weta’s best-known projects.
For budget-conscious travellers, the Weta Cave is free to visit.
Check out the Guide to The Lord of the Rings in Wellington to discover more LOTR hotspots.
Location: 1 Weka Street, Miramar.
© Phoebe Mackenzie - WellingtonNZ23. Wander Cuba Street
Cuba Street is the beating heart of Wellington’s cultural scene, pulsing with bohemian energy and eclectic charm. This vibrant pedestrian-friendly precinct is a must-visit for anyone exploring the capital.
We’re drawn to its quirky boutiques, vintage shops and an array of inviting cafés that perfectly capture Wellington’s essence.
As you stroll down Cuba Street, keep an eye out for the whimsical Bucket Fountain, a beloved local landmark. From what we’ve experienced, this area is a paradise for food lovers and window shoppers alike.
We can’t get enough of the street performers who add a lively soundtrack to your wanderings.
Location: Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington, North Island. Located in the heart of Wellington’s CBD.
© WellingtonNZ24. Tour the Parliament Building
Explore the essence of New Zealand’s democracy at the famous Parliament Buildings in Wellington.
The complex, featuring the distinctive Beehive (executive wing), offers free guided tours daily, giving you a fascinating glimpse into the country’s political processes.
As you explore Parliament House and the Parliamentary Library, you’ll learn about New Zealand’s unique democratic system and the building’s impressive earthquake-proof design.
Location: 1 Molesworth Street, Pipitea. Stop at “Lambton Quay North Stop A” along Bus Route 2.
© Don Benny Vergara25. Have a Welly Night Out!
Wellington’s nightlife is a vibrant tapestry of experiences, with most of the action concentrated in the compact Courtenay Place and Cuba Street areas.
Start your evening at one of the cosy craft beer bars or tucked-away wine spots for happy hour. If you’re a music lover, catch local acts at Meow or San Fran.
Prefer a laugh? Try an open mic comedy night. The city also hosts night markets, improv theatre, and themed parties. Everything is within walking distance, making it easy to hop from spot to spot and soak up the full Welly night experience.
Check out the bar scene in our Awesome Bars in Wellington guide.
Location: Courtenay Place and Cuba Street areas, Wellington City Centre, Wellington, North Island.
© Mark Tantrum - WellingtonNZMore About Things to Do in Wellington
That’s it for our guide to things to do in Wellington; for more information about the New Zealand capital, check out the following articles:
- The Travel Guide to Wellington on a Budget
- The Travel Guide to Wellington for Families
- The Luxury Travel Guide to Wellington
- The Honeymoon Guide to Wellington
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in the 51 Best Things to Do on the North Island.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2025])
- AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2025])
- Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2025])
- NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2025])
- Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2025])
- DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2025])
- Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2025])
- Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2025])
- Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2025])
- Visit Wellington (Regional tourism website)
- Destination Wairarapa (Regional tourism website)
- Wellington City Council (Local council website)
- Porirua City Council (Local council website)
- Greater Wellington Regional Council (Local council website)
- Upper Hutt City Council (Local council website)
- Hutt City Council (Local council website)
- Kāpiti Coast District Council (Local council website)
- Masterton District Council (Local council website)
- Carterton District Council (Local council website)
- South Wairarapa District Council (Local council website)
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