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 Travel Guide
Wellington Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Wellington
Wellington CBD
If you're spending some time in Wellington CBD, Wellington Cable Car and TSB Bank Arena are top sights worth seeing.
Petone
Seaside views, cafes and waterfront views highlight some of the notable features of Petone. Make a stop by Petone Foreshore while you're exploring.
Te Aro
Te Aro is known for its popular shops, and with sights like St James Theatre and Cuba Street Mall, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Wellington.
Wellington Waterfront
The abundant dining options and interesting 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.
Mount Cook
If you're spending some time in Mount Cook, Basin Reserve and Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre are top sights worth seeing.
Newtown
If you're spending some time in Newtown, Newtown Park and Wellington Zoo are top sights worth seeing.
Reviewed on 14 Apr 2024
Reviewed on 17 Apr 2024
Reviewed on 15 Apr 2024
Reviewed on 14 Apr 2024
Reviewed on 15 Apr 2024
Reviewed on 12 Apr 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 fascinating museums and acclaimed art galleries 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 do some window-shopping at Lambton Quay. Stroll along this family-friendly area's waterfront or simply enjoy its restaurants.
Things to do
Zealandia by Day - Nature Sanctuary Walking Tour
Private Wellington Full Day Sightseeing Tour
4-Day Wellington to Auckland via Rotorua Tour
Wellington: Return Cable Car Ticket
The Best of Wellington Walking Tour
Wellington: Te Awa Kairangi Class 3 Whitewater Rafting Tour
Reviews of Wellington
4/5 - Good
Nice waterfront city and easily wakeable around town and waterfront
5/5 - Excellent
We loved it
5/5 - Excellent
Great place to visit if you love waterfront scenery, activities and city vibes at the same time
5/5 - Excellent
The Te Papa museum is a must when visiting Wellington with a trip up the cable car (a return ticket 9 dollars) but the views are fantastic. Cuba street have independent shops and a vibrant night life.
5/5 - Excellent
Would liked to have more time here
5/5 - Excellent
Fantastic capital, small, quirky, interesting, excellent museums and restaurants