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
While visiting Wellington CBD, you might make a stop by sights like Wellington Cable Car and New Zealand Portrait Gallery.
Te Aro
Travelers to Te Aro praise its popular shops. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by St James Theatre and Cuba Street Mall.
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.
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
If you're spending some time in Newtown, Newtown Park and Wellington Zoo are top sights worth seeing.
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 11, 2024
Reviewed on May 9, 2024
Reviewed on May 11, 2024
Reviewed on May 9, 2024
Reviewed on May 12, 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.
Wellington Zoo
Spend some quality time with big cats, giraffes, red pandas and white-cheeked gibbons at New Zealand’s oldest zoo.
Courtenay Place
Shop, wine and dine in this culinary hot spot on one of Wellington's most fashionable streets.
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
Zealandia by Day - Nature Sanctuary Walking Tour
Private Wellington Full Day Sightseeing Tour
4-Day Wellington to Auckland via Rotorua Tour
Museum of New Zealand Te Papa: Small Group Guided 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.