Top Attractions to Explore in Wellington, NZ

Located on the southern tip of New Zealand’s North Island, Wellington is an incredible destination to explore while visiting this beautiful country. Known as the windiest city in the world, there’s plenty to experience in this vibrant capital. Whether you want to immerse yourself in its rich culture or revel in its stunning natural landscapes, Wellington has something amazing for everyone. In this guide, I’ll share the top attractions and activities to consider during your visit to Wellington, informed by my three years of living in this marvelous city.

1. Zealandia Ecosanctuary

If you are passionate about wildlife, especially the unique species native to New Zealand, then a visit to Zealandia is essential. This ecosanctuary boasts over 40 rare and vulnerable wildlife species. Covering 225 hectares, it represents the most biodiverse region on mainland New Zealand.

Zealandia offers a glimpse into New Zealand’s past, before human settlement. Prior to the arrival of the Māori in the 1300s and Europeans in the 1800s, the country was free of pests and predators, making it a unique ecosystem filled with diverse flora and fauna.

Ever since European settlement, various pests were introduced, which have had a devastating impact on native wildlife. Currently, many species are on the brink of extinction, with others only surviving due to populations on offshore islands.

Fortunately, Zealandia aims to restore Wellington’s wildlife to its pre-human state. Being fully fenced, it is a predator-free sanctuary that allows native wildlife to thrive. Within, you can spot over 40 different bird species, including the iconic kiwi, as well as a range of reptiles, plant species, and various invertebrates.

2. Movie Tour at Weta Workshop

Wellington is a paradise for movie aficionados, featuring not only unique cinemas but also the world-renowned Weta Workshop.

Weta Workshop, an Oscar-winning special effects and props company, is renowned for its contributions to The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, as they collaborated with Peter Jackson to bring his vision to life. They have also worked on other notable films, such as Avatar, King Kong, Indiana Jones, and The Chronicles of Narnia.

What makes Weta Workshop truly remarkable is the opportunity to go behind the scenes and witness the magic for yourself. They offer various tours that delve into the creative process and techniques behind movie-making, including hands-on workshops in sculpting and special effects makeup. A visit to Weta Workshop promises to be a memorable experience.

3. Mount Victoria Lookout

The Mount Victoria Lookout is the best spot to experience stunning panoramic views of Wellington. There are several walking tracks leading to the lookout point, easily accessible from the city center. The Southern Walkway is a fantastic option if you find yourself near Oriental Bay’s waterfront, while the Lookout Walkway can be accessed from Majoribanks Street closer to the city.

At the summit, your effort will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Wellington Harbour, the city, and the South Pacific Ocean. On a clear day, the vistas are simply spectacular, making this one of Wellington’s most popular tourist sites.

If the walk feels too challenging, you can also drive up to the lookout point.

4. The Hiking Trails

Every time I hike in Wellington, I am continually amazed by the accessibility of breathtaking nature so close to the city. An abundance of trails is available in the Wellington region, with some of the best starting right from the urban center.

The Skyline Walkway and Northern Walkway are widely considered the premier trails in the area, as both lead you to the summit of Mount Kaukau. The views from Mount Kaukau are genuinely remarkable; to the south, you can admire the city and harbour, while to the north, the Tararua Ranges come into view. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the South Island to the west.

For a change of scenery, the Escarpment Track is a short drive or train ride from the city. Along this trail, you’ll be treated to extraordinary views of the Kapiti coastline, featuring stunning swing bridges that hang above steep drops.

5. Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

Te Papa Tongarewa is New Zealand’s national museum, open to the public at no cost. With six floors of dynamic and interactive exhibits detailing the nation’s remarkable history, it stands as the most visited museum in both New Zealand and Australia. It offers a fantastic opportunity for visitors of all ages to learn about the country’s art, culture, and science.

Although New Zealand’s history may be relatively short compared to other nations, it is undoubtedly fascinating. The museum emphasizes the narrative of New Zealand’s indigenous Māori people through various permanent exhibitions, continuously refreshing its displays with temporary exhibits to provide something new for every visit. For further information, check the museum’s website.

6. Visit the Wellington Botanic Gardens

If you are seeking a tranquil experience, the Wellington Botanic Gardens should be on your itinerary. The gardens feature numerous self-guided trails that allow visitors to explore 25 hectares of vibrant plant collections.

The Wellington cable car seamlessly connects the Wellington CBD to the top of the Botanic Gardens, where a lookout point awaits. This location is another excellent vantage point for enjoying stunning views of the harbour and the city below.

A unique aspect of the gardens is that they are home to glow worms. Guided tours are available at various times throughout the year, with spring being the optimal season to observe them, particularly after rain. For the latest opening hours and information, check out the Wellington Botanic Gardens website.

7. The Craft Breweries

Wellington has embraced the art of craft beer brewing, boasting numerous breweries dedicated to creating exceptional and unique beers. The city is often regarded as the craft beer capital of New Zealand, which explains why you can find some of the country’s finest brews here.

Prominent breweries include Parrotdog, Fortune Favours, Garage Project, Fork and Brewer, and Heyday, among many others. Many breweries serve as bars, allowing patrons to enjoy fresh beer right at the source. Brewtown, located just outside of the city in Upper Hutt, is a popular destination for beer enthusiasts, featuring five Wellington breweries and a distillery.

For those keen to deepen their knowledge of craft beer, I recommend touring Parrotdog brewery. During the tour, you’ll witness the beer brewing process, learn about its nuances, and savor five unique tasters—a great opportunity for even the most experienced beer connoisseurs.

8. The Cafés

Wellingtonians are equally passionate about excellent coffee, which explains why the city boasts over 300 cafés. The coffee culture here is integral to its identity; it would be difficult to imagine Wellington without its vibrant café scene.

Many of New Zealand’s top coffee roasters got their start in Wellington, with well-known names including Coffee Supreme, Havana, Peoples, and L’affare. Each roastery has its café in the city, providing some of the finest coffee experiences available.

With intense competition, the caliber of coffee and the café atmosphere in Wellington is impressive. Most cafés offer a blend of great coffee, delicious food, and a welcoming ambiance. Some of the city’s most frequented cafés include Customs by Coffee Supreme, Milk Crate, Swimsuit, Prefab, Fidels, The Hangar, and many more.

9. Visit Maitu/Somes Island

Maitu/Somes Island, the largest among the three islands in Wellington Harbour, is just a short boat ride from the city and serves as a predator-free scientific reserve welcoming visitors.

The island has a rich, multicultural history that traces back to when the Māori first inhabited Wellington. It was named by Kupe in honor of his niece, Maitu, after he was believed to be the first Polynesian to discover New Zealand.

In more contemporary history, the island served as a quarantine station for immigrants arriving in Wellington during the 1800s, and it was subsequently used as an internment camp in both world wars, a military outpost, and an animal quarantine station.

Today, the elimination of pests has fostered a safe environment for native wildlife. Visitors can observe a variety of birds, reptiles, and invertebrates, including tuatara, weta, and little blue penguins. Numerous walking tracks lead you around the island, allowing for picturesque views of the harbour and city.

10. Otari Wilton’s Bush

Wellington offers many beautiful locations to uncover, and Otari Wilton’s Bush is a standout. This stunning area spans 100 hectares, home to over 1,200 native plant species grown primarily from seeds or cuttings gathered from both mainland New Zealand and offshore islands.

The site is a visual treat, presenting a serene escape from urban life. A core objective of Otari Wilton’s Bush is to conserve threatened native plant species, with some kept in the gardens while others are replanted in natural habitats once matured.

The area also offers 11 km of walking tracks, providing ample opportunities for exploration throughout the day. After your adventures, you can unwind at one of the designated picnic spots or fire up a barbecue at Troup picnic area, which features free electric barbecues for public use.

11. Cuba Street

Wellington is rich in outdoor activities, but if you’re seeking to experience urban life, Cuba Street is a must-visit.

This vibrant street runs through the heart of the city and is brimming with cultural offerings. Spanning nearly 1 km, you’ll encounter a range of restaurants, cafés, bars, record shops, vintage clothing stores, and even a quirky bucket fountain. The street is renowned for its bohemian charm, evident in the various shops and cafes lining its path.

If you’re in search of a cozy café, consider checking out Fidels or Olive, both excellent brunch spots. For an evening drink and bite, Laundry, a once-laundromat now transformed into a lively bar, is a fantastic choice. However, for a more upscale experience, don’t miss Logan Brown, known for its fine dining.

12. Visit the Beaches and Bays

Owing to Wellington’s coastal location, the area boasts numerous breathtaking beaches and bays. The nearest bay to the city center is Oriental Bay, easily accessible for a lovely stroll along the waterfront, where you can take in the charming views of the city across the harbour. During summer, the man-made beach is a popular destination.

Further out, visitors can explore Lyall Bay, Island Bay, Scorching Bay, and even Days Bay located in Eastbourne. Lyall Bay is Wellington’s inner-city surf beach, situated opposite the harbour and blessed with perfect surf waves. Arguably, Scorching Bay holds the prettiest beach, featuring golden sands and crystal-clear waters.

If swimming is not your interest, a scenic drive around the bays is a fantastic alternative to experience Wellington’s coastal options.

13. Day Trips from Wellington

While plenty of activities await you in Wellington, there are also many exciting destinations within a short drive of the city. The Wairarapa region, located to the east, is particularly rich in attractions.

Wairarapa Region

The Wairarapa features charming towns such as Masterton, Carterton, Greytown, Featherston, and Martinborough. Don’t miss Castlepoint, renowned for its sprawling beaches and impressive coastline that showcases one of New Zealand’s two remaining beam lighthouses.

Martinborough

If you appreciate exquisite wine, Martinborough is an idyllic stop for you. Home to over 20 wineries, this area is part of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail, particularly popular in the summer months when visitors cycle between vineyards to taste the exquisite wines on offer. Renowned for its outstanding pinot noir, Martinborough is a wine lover’s haven.

Remutaka Forest Park

For nature enthusiasts seeking further adventure, the Remutaka Forest Park features numerous scenic walking and biking tracks. Family-friendly trails such as the Orongorongo Track make it an excellent spot for all ages. Additionally, the Remutaka Rail Trail presents a gently graded mountain biking option, while the more adventurous can explore the plethora of superior trails within the Tararua Forest Park.

Explore New Zealand Travels

Wellington offers experiences that cater to every taste, from cultural excursions and natural wonders to world-class culinary delights. With its stunning landscapes and rich heritage, Wellington is a destination you cannot afford to miss.