Wellington is the planet’s southernmost capital city. It lies on the shores of a large harbor and is surrounded by wooded hills. According to Māori legend the explorer Kupe discovered Wellington Harbor in A.D. 925. The first European settlers arrived in 1840 and named the settlement after the first Duke of Wellington. It became New Zealand’s capital city in 1865.For many years Wellington was off the tourist radar. Overshadowed by Auckland, the city served merely as a gateway for those taking a ferry to South Island. But that has changed and Wellington has been called the "coolest little capital in the world." This reputation comes from, among other things, the city’s diverse arts and cultural activities, and its global reputation as a movie-making powerhouse. Sometimes referred to as “Wellywood,” Wellington’s multimillion-dollar sound stages, studios and special effects houses have attracted big-budget movies such as The Lord of the Rings trilogy and Avatar.Get acquainted with the city at the waterfront area where there are a number of star attractions, including Te Papa. This is New Zealand’s national museum and an excellent introduction to Wellington and the country. Nearby is the Museum of Wellington City and Sea, which covers the city’s development and maritime traditions. Wellington benefits from having both the ocean and the countryside on its doorstep. Go on walking trails in the hills or take it easy at Oriental Bay Beach, the closest beach to the city.One of the city’s oldest and most popular attractions is the Wellington Cable Car. Hop aboard a car for the eight-minute ride up the hill to Wellington Botanic Garden and the lookout at Kelburn. From there, take a free shuttle bus to Zealandia. This unique conservation project is trying to restore parts of the countryside to its pre-human state.When it comes to nightlife Wellington has a plenty of restaurants, cafés, theaters and nightclubs. Being a compact city, many places are within an easy walking distance of each other.
Wellington
Wellington Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Wellington
Wellington CBD
Inner-city suburb boasting high-rise buildings and the financial heart of the region, Wellington Central offers access to Civic Square, Town Hall, Central Library, and the Wellington Cable Car.
Te Aro
Discover New Zealand's largest entertainment district, bustling with bars, clubs, theaters, and galleries. Explore Te Aro Park, the waterfront area, and Cuba Street's vibrant shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Petone
Nestled between the Hutt River and Wellington Harbour, Petone boasts a sandy beach for family swimming and a historic main street with unique businesses. Explore the Petone Settlers Museum or stroll along the Hutt River.
Wellington Waterfront
The ample dining options and fascinating museums are top of the list for many visitors to Wellington Waterfront. A stop by Te Papa or TSB Bank Arena might round out your trip.
Newtown
Experience a distinct character in this southern Wellington suburb, where you can visit Wellington Zoo or enjoy athletics and football at Newtown Park.
Mount Cook
While visiting Mount Cook, you might make a stop by sights like Basin Reserve and Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre.
Reviewed on 20 May 2024
Reviewed on 16 May 2024
Reviewed on 11 May 2024
Reviewed on 17 May 2024
Reviewed on 19 May 2024
Reviewed on 11 May 2024
Getting around Wellington
It’s easy to get around Wellington on foot and by public transportation. The city center is walkable, and the Metlink public transportation network takes in railway lines, buses, ferries and even a cable car that offers beautiful views of the city. Rent a car only if you plan on spending a lot of time exploring the countryside that surrounds the city. Cars can be rented downtown or at the airport. Visit the Metlink website.Browse Wellington rental cars.
Best time to visit
Wellington is busiest during the summer months: December through February. The weather at this time of year will be mild but sunny, perfect for getting involved in the outdoor activities available close to the city. You can avoid the summer crowds by visiting in spring (September to November) or in fall (March to May), when the weather will be slightly cooler but still pleasant.
Popular places to visit
Te Papa
See, smell and touch the exhibits at New Zealand’s hi-tech and interactive free national museum.
Cuba Street Mall
Enjoy artisan coffees, sample specialty foods, browse through vintage shops or hunt for retro bargains in Wellington's bohemian heart.
Wellington Central Business District
Wellington Central Business District is just one of the places to see in Wellington, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Experience the acclaimed art scene and fascinating museums in this walkable area.
Courtenay Place
Shop, wine and dine in this culinary hot spot on one of Wellington's most fashionable streets.
Wellington Zoo
Spend some quality time with big cats, giraffes, red pandas and white-cheeked gibbons at New Zealand’s oldest zoo.
Lambton Quay
During your visit to Wellington, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Lambton Quay. Stroll along this family-friendly area's waterfront, or simply enjoy its restaurants.
Things to do
Private Wellington Full Day Sightseeing Tour
4-Day Wellington to Auckland via Rotorua Tour
Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Explorer Cycle Tour
Intro to Wellington Bike Tour
From Source to Sea Remutaka Mountain Bike Cycle Tour
Private Wellington City Highlight Tour
Reviews of Wellington
5/5 - Excellent
Te Papa Museum and its Gallipoli Exhibition are must sees.
5/5 - Excellent
really nice city and worth a 1.5 days visit
5/5 - Excellent
We utilized the Uber scooters. These were a EXCELLENT way to see a lot of the city in a short period of time. We had 1 free day in Wellington and used them the entire day. Had we walked that, we would have been exhausted before dinner.
5/5 - Excellent
Very lively harbor area that has been revamped. Lots of music, bars, food.
5/5 - Excellent
Liked the museums and cable car and gardens
5/5 - Excellent
Super city, especially in the sunshine.
Other places like Wellington
- Interislander Ferry Terminal
- Te Papa
- Wellington Central Business District
- Cuba Street Mall
- Courtenay Place
- Sky Stadium
- Wellington Zoo
- Lambton Quay
- Michael Fowler Centre
- The Weta Cave
- Wellington Cable Car
- Wellington Hospital
- Victoria University of Wellington
- TSB Bank Arena
- Zealandia
- Oriental Bay Beach
- New Zealand Parliament Buildings
- Beehive
- Mount Victoria Lookout
- Oriental Parade
- Newtown Park
- Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre
- St James Theatre
- Petone Foreshore
- The Opera House
- Basin Reserve
- ASB Sports Centre
- Botanic Gardens
- Wellington Town Hall