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
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 May 12, 2024
Reviewed on May 11, 2024
Reviewed on May 11, 2024
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Reviewed on May 3, 2024
Reviewed on Apr. 22, 2024
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
Half Day Lord of the Rings Tour
Half Day Tour of Wellington
Private Wellington Full Day Sightseeing Tour
4-Day Wellington to Auckland via Rotorua Tour
Wellington: Te Awa Kairangi Class 3 Whitewater Rafting Tour
Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Explorer Cycle Tour
Reviews of Wellington
4/5 - Good
Wellington is a fun city to visit - wish we had more time and better accommodation!
4/5 - Good
It is a very windy city
5/5 - Excellent
Nice compact city. Make sure you go for a walk along the waterfront.
5/5 - Excellent
You can walk everywhere from the hotel. So much to see and discover. The electic bikes were fun. And the tram ride to view the city was a bonus. A must see is the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum.
3/5 - Okay
They call it "Windy" Wellington for a reason. It was VERY Expensive to eat at the dock but you can find better and cheaper places.
5/5 - Excellent
An amazing city, very impressed. Far more interesting and lively than anticipated. Would definitely come back.