Wellington is a city that has it all: stunning scenery, rich culture, vibrant nightlife, and endless fun. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or education, you will find plenty of things to do in Wellington that will suit your taste and budget. In this article, we will show you 25 amazing activities that you can enjoy in the capital of New Zealand, from exploring underground tunnels in Parliament to watching a movie at the world’s coolest cinema.
1. Get Lost in Te Papa
One of the most impressive and popular things to do in Wellington is to get lost in Te Papa. It’s the national museum of New Zealand that displays exhibits on art, history, science, and culture. Te Papa means “our place” in Maori. Indeed, the museum is a place where you can learn about and celebrate the diversity and identity of New Zealand and its people.
Te Papa has six floors of exhibits that cover different themes and topics, such as the natural environment, the Maori culture, the Pacific heritage, colonial history, contemporary society, and future challenges. You can see some of the amazing collections and displays, such as the colossal squid, the Treaty of Waitangi, the Gallipoli exhibition, and the art gallery. You can also enjoy some interactive and immersive experiences, such as the earthquake simulator, the bush walk, and virtual reality.
Te Papa is not only a museum but also a hub of education and entertainment. You can join some of the events and programs that take place in Te Papa, such as the guided tours, the workshops, the performances, and the festivals. You can also visit some of the facilities and services that Te Papa offers. It has a library, a cafe, a shop, and a playground.
Te Papa is a must-see attraction for anyone who wants to experience the essence and spirit of New Zealand. You can find out more about Te Papa’s exhibits, events, and opening hours on the Te Papa website. Admission is free for most exhibits, but some may require a fee or a booking. Besides that, you can book private guided tours to listen to more stories and insights about Maori culture, art, history, etc.
2. Watch a Movie at The Roxy Cinema
If you are a movie buff and a fan of art deco style, you should watch a movie at The Roxy Cinema. It’s a restored and renovated cinema that dates back to 1928. Thus, the Roxy Cinema is not only a place to watch the latest films, but also a tribute to the golden age of cinema and the local film industry.
The Roxy Cinema has two theatres, the Grand and the Coco, that feature state-of-the-art sound and projection systems, comfortable seats, and vintage decor. You can also see some of the memorabilia and props from famous movies, such as The Lord of the Rings, King Kong, and Avatar, that were made in Wellington by Weta Workshop and Weta Digital. You can also enjoy some food and drinks at the cafe, the restaurant, or the cocktail lounge.
Watching a movie at The Roxy Cinema is a must-do activity for anyone who loves cinema and art. It is also a fun and relaxing way to spend an evening in Wellington. You can find out more about The Roxy Cinema’s films, events, and opening hours on its website. You can also book your tickets online or at the box office.
3. Explore the Weta Cave
If you are a fan of movies and special effects, you should explore the Weta Cave. It’s a mini-museum and shop that showcases the work of Weta Workshop and Weta Digital. They are the award-winning studios that created the visual effects for movies such as The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Avatar, and King Kong. The Weta Cave is located in Miramar, a suburb of Wellington that is also known as the “Wellywood”.
At the Weta Cave, you can see some of the props, models, costumes, and weapons that were used in the movies. You can also watch some behind-the-scenes videos that reveal how the magic was made. In addition, you can buy some souvenirs and merchandise, such as books, DVDs, posters, and collectibles.
You can also join some of the tours and experiences that the Weta Cave offers. For example, the Window into Workshop Tour, where you can see some of the artists and technicians at work. Then, the Miniatures Stage Tour, where you can see some of the miniature sets and models that were used in the movies. Or, the Thunderbirds Are Go Tour, where you can see some of the puppets and props from the TV show.
Exploring the Weta Cave and joining the Weta Workshop is a must-do activity for anyone who loves movies and special effects. Surely, it is a fun and educational way to learn more about the creative and technical aspects of filmmaking. Book your Weta Workshop Tours now to make sure you don’t miss this interesting activity.
4. Ride the Cable Car to Wellington Botanic Gardens
One of the most iconic and enjoyable things to do in Wellington is to ride the cable car to the Wellington Botanic Gardens. The cable car is a funicular railway that runs from Lambton Quay, the main shopping street, to Kelburn, a suburb in the hills overlooking the city. In fact, the cable car was opened in 1902 and has been operating ever since, carrying millions of passengers up and down the steep slope.
The cable car journey takes about five minutes and offers spectacular views of the city and harbor. Along the way, you can see the colorful murals in the tunnels, the historic machinery in the Cable Car Museum, and the spherical sculpture by Neil Dawson that hangs over Civic Square. You can also stop at Salamanca Station to visit Victoria University or Talavera Station to see the Clifton Terrace Model School.
At the top of the cable car, you can explore the Wellington Botanic Gardens. It’s a 25-hectare park that features a variety of plants, flowers, sculptures, and attractions. You can stroll through the rose garden, the herb garden, the native forest, and the duck pond. You can also visit the Carter Observatory and Space Place, where you can learn about astronomy and see the stars in the planetarium. The botanic gardens are also a great place to have a picnic, relax, and enjoy the natural beauty of Wellington.
Riding the cable car to the Wellington Botanic Gardens is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Wellington. It is a convenient and scenic way to access one of the city’s most popular attractions and experience its history and culture. You can buy your cable car tickets online or at the ticket office at Lambton Quay or Kelburn.
5. Hunt for Wildlife at Zealandia
If you are a nature lover and a wildlife enthusiast, you will love Zealandia, a 225-hectare eco-sanctuary that is home to some of the rarest and most endangered native birds and reptiles in New Zealand. Zealandia is a conservation project that aims to restore the natural ecosystem of Wellington and protect its biodiversity from predators and human impact.
At Zealandia, you can see and hear more than 40 species of native birds. Those include the kiwi, the tui, the kaka, and the hihi. You can also spot some of the unique reptiles, such as the tuatara, the gecko, and the skink. Moreover, you can also learn about the history and culture of Zealandia, from its Maori origins to its European settlement.
Zealandia is not just an attraction, it is an adventure. It is the place where you can immerse yourself in the stunning and diverse wildlife of New Zealand, and discover the unique and endangered species that call it home. It is also the place where you can support vital conservation efforts and learn about the urgent environmental issues that affect Wellington and New Zealand. If you are looking for a memorable and meaningful experience in Wellington, you don’t want to miss Zealandia. However, don’t just take my word for it, see it for yourself. Click below to book your tours now and get ready for an unforgettable journey into nature. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
6. Hike the Mount Victoria Lookout
If you love hiking and panoramic views, you should hike Mount Victoria Lookout, a hill that offers stunning views of Wellington and its surroundings. Mount Victoria is the highest point in Wellington, at 196 meters above sea level. It is also a historical and cultural landmark. It was used as a lookout and a signal station by the Maori and the Europeans.
There are several trails that lead to the Mount Victoria Lookout, such as the Southern Walkway, the Hataitai to City Walk, or the Te Ahumairangi Hill Loop Track. You can choose from different levels of difficulty, length, and scenery. You can also drive or take a bus to the lookout if you prefer.
At the Mount Victoria Lookout, you can enjoy some of the best views of Wellington and its harbor, islands, mountains, and suburbs. You can also see some of the landmarks and attractions of the city. For example, the Te Papa Museum, the Beehive, the Cable Car, and the Weta Cave. You can also spot some of the locations that were used in The Lord of the Rings movies, such as Hobbiton Woods and Helm’s Deep.
Hiking the Mount Victoria Lookout is a must-do activity for anyone who loves nature and scenery. It is also a fun and healthy way to experience the beauty and diversity of Wellington’s landscape.
7. Enjoy the Views at Mount Kaukau
If you want to enjoy some of the best views of Wellington and its surroundings, you should hike to the top of Mount Kaukau, the highest peak in the city. Mount Kaukau is 445 meters above sea level and has a distinctive transmission tower that can be seen from far away.
There are several trails that lead to the summit of Mount Kaukau, such as the Skyline Walkway, the Northern Walkway, or the Khandallah Loop Track. You can choose from different levels of difficulty, length, and scenery. The trails are well-marked and maintained. It offers some of the most stunning views of Wellington and its harbor, islands, mountains, and suburbs.
At the summit of Mount Kaukau, you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama of Wellington and its surroundings. You can also see some of the landmarks and attractions of the city, such as the Te Papa Museum, the Beehive, the Cable Car, and the Weta Cave. Besides that, you can spot some of the locations that were used in The Lord of the Rings movies, such as Rivendell and Mount Doom.
Hiking to the top of Mount Kaukau is a must-do activity for anyone who wants to experience the beauty and charm of Wellington. It is also a fun and healthy way to challenge yourself and enjoy some quality time with yourself or your loved ones.
8. Paddle the Wellington Harbour
If you are looking for some adventure and exercise, you should try paddling the Wellington Harbour and exploring the scenic coastline and islands by kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Paddling is a great way to enjoy the fresh air and water, see the city from a different perspective, and encounter some of the marine life that inhabits the harbor.
There are several operators that offer paddling tours and rentals in Wellington, such as Fergs Kayaks, Switched on Bikes, and Wildfinder Pencarrow. You can choose from different options, such as guided tours, self-guided tours, or lessons. You can also choose from different locations, such as Oriental Bay, Petone Foreshore, or Pencarrow Coast.
Some of the highlights of paddling the Wellington Harbour are:
- Seeing the iconic landmarks of Wellington, such as the Te Papa Museum, the Beehive, and the Cable Car.
- Exploring the historic Somes Island, a former quarantine station and wildlife sanctuary.
- Visiting the remote Matiu Island, a former Maori pa site and World War II fortification.
- Discovering the hidden bays and beaches of the Pencarrow Coast, such as Baring Head and Lake Kohangapiripiri.
- Spotting some of the wildlife that lives in the harbor, such as dolphins, seals, penguins, and seabirds.
Paddling the Wellington Harbour is a must-do activity for anyone who loves nature and adventure. It is also a fun and relaxing way to experience the beauty and diversity of Wellington’s waterways.
9. Take a Ferry to Matiu/Somes Island
If you want to take a break from the city and enjoy some nature and history, you should take a ferry to Matiu/Somes Island. It’s a small island in the middle of Wellington Harbour that has a rich and diverse past. Particularly, Matiu/Somes Island is a pest-free reserve that is managed by the Department of Conservation and the local iwi or Maori tribe.
At Matiu/Somes Island, you can do some of the activities that they offer. To illustrate, first, walk around the island, where you can see some of the native plants and animals, such as pohutukawa trees, tuatara lizards, and little blue penguins. Secondly, visit the quarantine station, where you can learn about the history of the island as a place of isolation and detention for people, animals, and plants. Thirdly, stay overnight at the lodge or the campsite, where you can enjoy the peace and tranquility of the island.
Taking a ferry to Matiu/Somes Island is a must-do activity for anyone who wants to experience the nature and history of Wellington. It is also a fun and affordable way to explore one of the most unique and significant islands in New Zealand.
10. Relax at Oriental Bay
If you are looking for some relaxation and recreation, you should visit Oriental Bay, the most popular and beautiful beach in Wellington. Oriental Bay is where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea, as well as the views of the city and the harbor.
At Oriental Bay, you can go swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, sailing, or cycling. You can also walk along the promenade, where you can see some of the landmarks and attractions of Wellington, such as the Carter Fountain, the Band Rotunda, and the Freyberg Pool. You can also enjoy some of the food and drinks that they have, such as ice cream, coffee, pizza, or fish and chips.
Relaxing at Oriental Bay is a must-do activity for anyone who wants to experience the beauty and charm of Wellington. It is also a fun and easy way to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some quality time with yourself or your loved ones.
11. Visit the Wellington Zoo
If you love animals and conservation, you should visit the Wellington Zoo, the oldest and most progressive zoo in New Zealand. The Wellington Zoo is where you can see and learn about more than 500 animals from over 100 species, many of which are endangered or threatened in the wild.
At the Wellington Zoo, you can do some of the activities that they offer. To elaborate, feeding the giraffes, meeting the meerkats, or encountering the cheetahs. You can also join some of the tours and experiences that they offer, such as the Close Encounters, where you can get up close and personal with some of the animals; the Sleepover, where you can spend a night at the zoo; or the Junior Keeper, where you can help the zookeepers with their daily tasks.
You can also learn more about the zoo’s conservation and education efforts. There are the Wellington Zoo Conservation Fund, which supports local and global projects to protect wildlife and habitats; the Wellington Zoo Learning Centre, which provides programs and resources for schools and groups; and the Wellington Zoo Animal Health Centre, which provides veterinary care and research for the animals.
Visiting the Wellington Zoo is a must-do activity for anyone who loves animals and conservation. It is also a fun and rewarding way to support a local and ethical organization that is dedicated to caring for animals and inspiring people. You can find out more about the Wellington Zoo’s opening hours, admission fees, and booking options on its website.
12. Experience the Culture at Te Wharewaka o Poneke
If you want to experience the culture and heritage of the Maori, and the indigenous people of New Zealand, you should visit Te Wharewaka o Poneke, a cultural center and canoe house that is located on the waterfront of Wellington. Te Wharewaka o Poneke means “the canoe house of Poneke”, which is the Maori name for Wellington.
At Te Wharewaka o Poneke, you can learn about the history and traditions of the Maori and their connection to the land and the sea. You can also see some of the artifacts and artworks that showcase their craftsmanship and creativity. Furthermore, you can join some of the activities and tours that Te Wharewaka o Poneke offers, such as:
- The Waka Tour, where you can paddle a traditional Maori canoe or waka on the harbor and learn about the navigation and voyaging skills of the Maori.
- The Cultural Walking Tour, where you can walk around the city and see some of the significant sites and landmarks that relate to the Maori history and culture.
- The Cultural Performance, where you can watch a live show of Maori music, dance, and storytelling.
Visiting Te Wharewaka o Poneke is a must-do activity for anyone who wants to experience the culture and heritage of the Maori. It is also a fun and educational way to learn more about the history and identity of Wellington and New Zealand. You can find out more about Te Wharewaka o Poneke’s opening hours, admission fees, and booking options on its website.
13. Shop at Cuba Street
If you love shopping and exploring, you should visit Cuba Street, the bohemian and creative heart of Wellington. Cuba Street is where you can find some of the most unique and eclectic shops, cafes, and galleries in the city. You can also see some of the street art, sculptures, and performers that add to the colorful and lively vibe.
Cuba Street has something for everyone, whether you are looking for fashion, art, books, music, or souvenirs. You can choose from a range of shops, such as Hunters and Collectors, a vintage and retro clothing store; Matchbox Studios, a contemporary art and design gallery; Pegasus Books, a second-hand and rare bookshop; or Slow Boat Records, a vinyl and CD store.
Additionally, you can enjoy some of the food and drinks that Cuba Street offers, such as Fidel’s Cafe, a Cuban-themed cafe that serves coffee and cakes; Midnight Espresso, a vegetarian and vegan cafe that offers sandwiches and salads; or Havana Bar, a cozy and funky bar that plays live music and serves cocktails.
Shopping at Cuba Street is a must-do activity for anyone who wants to experience the culture and diversity of Wellington. It is also a fun and rewarding way to discover some of the hidden gems and treasures of the city.
14. Discover the Street Art at Wellington Waterfront
If you are a fan of art and creativity, you should discover the street art at Wellington Waterfront. It’s a public space that features some of the most amazing and diverse murals and sculptures in the city. Wellington Waterfront is where you can find some of the works of local and international artists. They use their skills and talents to transform the walls and spaces into colorful and expressive artworks.
At Wellington Waterfront, you can see some of the street art that they have, such as the Solace in the Wind by Max Patte, a bronze sculpture of a man leaning into the wind; the Wellington Writers Walk by Catherine Griffiths, a series of concrete text sculptures that feature quotes from famous writers; or the Taniwha by Michel Tuffery, a mural that depicts a mythical creature from Maori folklore.
You can also join some of the tours and events that Wellington Waterfront offers, such as the Street Art Tour, where you can learn about the history and meaning of street art; the Waterfront Pop-Up Village, where you can see some of the temporary and experimental artworks; or the Wellington Waterfront Festival, where you can enjoy some of the music, dance, and theatre performances.
15. Admire the Art at City Gallery Wellington
If you are a fan of art and creativity, you should admire the art at City Gallery Wellington. It’s a contemporary art gallery that showcases some of the best and most original works by local and international artists. Indeed, City Gallery Wellington is where you can find some of the most diverse and innovative genres and styles of art, such as painting, sculpture, photography, video, and installation.
At City Gallery Wellington, you can see some of the exhibitions that they have. To illustrate, the Future is Female, a collection of works by women artists that explore feminism and gender issues; The Past is Present, a retrospective of works by Colin McCahon, one of New Zealand’s most influential painters; or The Present is Future, a selection of works by emerging artists that reflect on the current social and environmental challenges.
You can also join some of the events and programs that City Gallery Wellington offers, such as the guided tours, the talks, the workshops, or the performances. You can also visit some of the facilities and services that City Gallery Wellington offers. There are the cafe, the shop, and the library.
Admiring the art at City Gallery Wellington is a must-do activity for anyone who loves art and creativity. It is also a fun and inspiring way to experience the culture and diversity of Wellington’s artistic scene. You can find out more about City Gallery Wellington’s opening hours, admission fees, and booking options on its website.
16. Catch a Show at BATS Theatre
If you are a fan of theatre and comedy, you should catch a show at BATS Theatre. It’s a not-for-profit theatre that showcases some of the best and most original works by local and emerging artists. BATS Theatre is where you can find some of the most diverse and innovative genres and styles of theatre, such as drama, comedy, musical, improv, dance, and more.
At BATS Theatre, you can see some of the shows that they have, such as The Improvengers, a superhero-themed improv show; The Glitter Garden, a drag musical for kids; or The Pink Hammer, a comedy about a women’s carpentry workshop. You can also enjoy some of the events and festivals that they host, such as the NZ Fringe Festival, the NZ International Comedy Festival, or the Young and Hungry Festival.
Catching a show at BATS Theatre is a must-do activity for anyone who loves theatre and comedy. It is also a fun and affordable way to support a local and independent theatre that is passionate about creating and presenting quality and diverse works. You can find out more about BATS Theatre’s shows, events, and opening hours on its website. You can also book your tickets online or at the box office.
17. Enjoy the Nightlife at Courtenay Place
If you are looking for some fun and excitement, you should enjoy the nightlife at Courtenay Place, the entertainment district of Wellington. Courtenay Place is where you can find some of the best bars, clubs, restaurants, and theatres in the city. You can also see some of the street art, sculptures, and lights that add to the lively atmosphere.
Courtenay Place has something for everyone, whether you are in the mood for a drink, a dance, a meal, or a show. You can choose from a variety of venues. First, the Library is a cozy and classy bar that serves cocktails and books. Second, the Mishmosh, a funky and friendly pub that offers live music and games. Then, the Electric Avenue, a retro and vibrant club that plays disco and pop hits. Or, the Hummingbird, a chic and elegant restaurant that serves fusion cuisine and fine wine.
You can also catch some of the shows and performances that take place at Courtenay Place, such as the comedy acts at The Fringe Bar, the musicals at The Opera House, or the movies at The Embassy Theatre. Also, you can join some of the events and festivals that take place at Courtenay Place, such as the CubaDupa Festival, the Wellington on a Plate Festival, or the New Year’s Eve Party.
Enjoying the nightlife at Courtenay Place is a must-do activity for anyone who wants to experience the energy and excitement of Wellington. It is also a fun and social way to meet new people and make new friends.
18. Taste the Craft Beer at Garage Project
If you are a beer lover and a fan of craft brewing, you should taste craft beer at Garage Project. It’s a small and innovative brewery that produces some of the most creative and delicious beers in New Zealand. In fact, Garage Project was started in 2011 by two brothers and a friend, who converted an old petrol station in Aro Valley into a brewery.
At Garage Project, you can sample some of the beers that they make, such as the Pernicious Weed, a hoppy and bitter IPA; the Cereal Milk Stout, a smooth and creamy stout with cornflakes and lactose; or the Death from Above, a spicy and fruity ale with mango, lime, and Vietnamese mint. You can also see some of the artwork and designs that they use for their labels and cans, which reflect their quirky and adventurous style.
Moreover, you can join some of the events and tours that Garage Project offers. The Taproom Tour, where you can see how they brew their beers and taste some of their latest creations. The Cellar Door Tour, where you can visit their barrel-aging facility and try some of their rare and experimental beers. Or, the Wild Workshop Tour, where you can learn about their wild fermentation and sour beer production.
Tasting the craft beer at Garage Project is a must-do activity for anyone who loves beer and creativity. It is also a fun and social way to support a local and independent business that is passionate about making quality and innovative beers.
19. Indulge in Chocolate at Wellington Chocolate Factory
If you have a sweet tooth and a passion for chocolate, you should indulge in chocolate at Wellington Chocolate Factory. It’s a bean-to-bar chocolate maker that produces some of the finest and most ethical chocolates in New Zealand. Wellington Chocolate Factory was founded in 2013 by two brothers and a friend. They converted an old petrol station in Eva Street into a chocolate factory.
At Wellington Chocolate Factory, you can see how they make their chocolates from scratch. They use organic and fair trade cocoa beans from different origins, such as Peru, Dominican Republic, and Vanuatu. You can also taste some of their chocolates, such as the Pernicious Weed, a hoppy and bitter dark chocolate; the Cereal Milk Stout, a smooth and creamy milk chocolate with cornflakes and lactose; or the Death from Above, a spicy and fruity dark chocolate with mango, lime, and Vietnamese mint.
In addition, you can join some of the tours and workshops that Wellington Chocolate Factory offers:
- The Factory Tour, where you can learn about the bean-to-bar process and the importance of ethical cocoa sourcing.
- The Chocolatier Experience, where you can not only learn about the history and process of making chocolate but also make your own chocolate bar.
- The Chocolate Masterclass, where you can get a lesson in chocolate tasting and pairing.
Indulging in chocolate at Wellington Chocolate Factory is a must-do activity for anyone who loves chocolate and its quality. It is also a fun and delicious way to support a local and sustainable business that is passionate about making chocolate and creating a better-tasting world. You can find out more about Wellington Chocolate Factory’s opening hours, prices, and booking options on the WCF website.
20. Eat at the Wellington Night Market
If you are hungry and adventurous, you should eat at the Wellington Night Market, a weekly street food festival that takes place on Cuba Street and Left Bank. The Wellington Night Market is where you can find some of the most delicious and diverse cuisines from around the world, such as Chinese, Indian, Thai, Mexican, Turkish, and more.
At the Wellington Night Market, you can sample some of the dishes that they offer, such as dumplings, curry, pad thai, tacos, kebabs, and more. Also, you can enjoy some of the desserts and drinks that they have, such as crepes, churros, bubble tea, and smoothies. Besides that, you can see some of the entertainment and performances that they have, such as live music, dance, and magic.
21. Go Underground in Parliament
One of the most fascinating things to do in Wellington is to go underground in Parliament and learn about the political system and history of New Zealand. You can join a free guided tour that takes you through the complex of buildings that house the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government. You will see the debating chamber where laws are made, the library where research is done, and the bunker where emergency decisions are taken. Furthermore, you will learn about the unique features of New Zealand’s democracy, such as its mixed-member proportional voting system, its constitutional monarchy, and its bicultural partnership with the Maori.
This activity is not only educational but also exciting, as you will get to explore the hidden tunnels and rooms that are normally off-limits to the public. You will also get to see some of the architectural and artistic highlights of Parliament, such as the Beehive, the Grand Hall, and the Speaker’s Gallery. The tours run every hour from 10 am to 4 pm on weekdays and from 10 am to 3 pm on weekends and public holidays1. You can book your tour online or at the visitor center.
Going underground in Parliament is a great way to discover the history and culture of New Zealand and gain a deeper understanding of how its government works. It is also a fun and interactive way to experience one of the most iconic landmarks of Wellington. Don’t miss this opportunity to see what lies beneath the surface of Parliament.
22. Visit Old St. Paul’s Church
Another historical and cultural attraction in Wellington is the Old St. Paul’s Church, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture and a national treasure. The church was built between 1865 and 1866 by the Anglican Church and served as the pro-cathedral of the Diocese of Wellington until 1964. It is now owned by Heritage New Zealand and open to the public as a museum and event venue.
The church is constructed from New Zealand native timbers, such as rimu, kauri, and totara, and features beautiful stained-glass windows, carvings, and memorials. The interior has been likened to the upturned hull of an Elizabethan galleon, with exposed curving trusses and sarking. The church also has a rich collection of artifacts, such as the original organ, the baptismal font, and the royal coat of arms.
Visiting Old St. Paul’s Church is a wonderful way to appreciate the craftsmanship and heritage of Wellington’s past. You can join a guided tour, attend a service, or simply admire the beauty and tranquility of the place. The church is also a popular venue for weddings, concerts, and other special occasions.
23. Learn More at Wellington Museum
If you are interested in learning more about the stories and heritage of Wellington, you should visit the Wellington Museum. The museum showcases the history, culture, and people of the city from its early Maori settlers to its present-day cosmopolitan society. Wellington Museum is housed in a historic building that was once the Bond Store, a warehouse for storing goods and collecting taxes in the 19th century.
At Wellington Museum, you can explore four floors of exhibits that cover different aspects and eras of Wellington’s history. You can see the Maori artifacts and legends, the maritime and trade history, the social and political movements, and the natural disasters and innovations that shaped the city. You can also enjoy some interactive and immersive experiences, such as the Time Machine, the Wahine Theatre, and the Attic.
Wellington Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone who wants to learn more about the city and its people. It is also a great place to have some fun and entertainment. You can join some of the events and workshops that take place in the museum. There are the Night at the Museum, the Crafty Sundays, and the School Holiday Programme. You can also visit some of the nearby attractions, such as the Cable Car Museum, Space Place, and Plimmer’s Ark.
Wellington Museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, except on Christmas Day. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. You can find out more about the museum’s exhibits, events, and opening hours on the Wellington Museum’s website.
24. Chill Out in Te Ngakau Civic Square
If you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy the urban vibe of Wellington, you should check out Te Ngakau Civic Square. It’s a public space that features modern art, sculptures, fountains, and cultural venues. Te Ngakau means “the heart” in Maori, and the square is indeed the heart of Wellington’s civic and cultural life.
At Te Ngakau Civic Square, you can admire some of the artistic and architectural highlights of Wellington, such as the City Gallery, the Central Library, the Town Hall, and the City-to-Sea Bridge. You can also see some of the iconic sculptures, such as the Ferns by Neil Dawson, the Nikau Palms by John Reynolds, and the Albatross by Tanya Ashken. Additionally, you can enjoy some of the water features, such as the Whairepo Lagoon and the Water Whirler by Len Lye.
Te Ngakau Civic Square is also a great place to have some fun and entertainment. You can join some of the events and festivals that take place in the square, such as the Matariki Festival, the CubaDupa Festival, and the New Zealand Festival. You can also visit some of the nearby attractions, such as Te Papa Museum, Frank Kitts Park, and Queens Wharf.
Te Ngakau Civic Square is a must-see attraction for anyone who wants to experience the culture and atmosphere of Wellington. It is a place where you can relax, enjoy, and connect with the city and its people.
25. Ride the Wellington Tramway Museum
If you want to experience the nostalgia and charm of the past, you should ride the Wellington Tramway Museum. It’s a museum that preserves and operates some of the historic trams that used to run in Wellington. The Wellington Tramway Museum is located in Queen Elizabeth Park, a coastal park that is about an hour’s drive from Wellington.
At the Wellington Tramway Museum, you can see some of the trams that they have, such as the Fiducia, a double-decker tram that was built in 1904; the Boon, a single-decker tram that was built in 1925; or the Brill, a single-decker tram that was built in 1931. Particularly, you can ride some of the trams that they run, such as the Fiducia, which runs on weekends and public holidays; or the Boon, which runs on weekdays.
Riding the Wellington Tramway Museum is a must-do activity for anyone who wants to experience the history and charm of Wellington. It is also a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the scenery and atmosphere of Queen Elizabeth Park. You can find out more about the Wellington Tramway Museum’s opening hours, admission fees, and booking options on its website.
Final Thoughts on Wellington
Wellington is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you want to learn about the history and culture of New Zealand, enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of the region, or have some fun and adventure in the harbor, you will find plenty of things to do in Wellington that will make your trip unforgettable. We hope this article has given you some ideas and inspiration for your next visit to the capital of New Zealand. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Thank you for reading and happy travels!
Note:
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You can also use 12Go to book buses, trains, ferries, or any transportation to places.
Book An Accommodation
I mostly use Booking.com to find a place for my trip. Sometimes I try to Get Free Credits on Airbnb to book homestays. Driving Yourself Will be More Enjoyable
You can easily compare prices and find great deals on Discover Cars.
Protect Yourself and Your Trip
Travel Insurance is Important, especially after COVID-19, there are more possible health issues and pandemics. Please don't forget to have a shield for yourself and your trips!
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