Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, is often referred to as the "Coolest Little Capital in the World." Nestled between the harbor and rolling green hills, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of culture, natural beauty, and culinary delights. Whether you have just one day to explore or are planning a longer stay, this itinerary will guide you through a perfect day in Wellington.
If your journey also includes the North Island, I recommend checking out www.northislandnz.net for more information.
Looking for a place to stay while exploring Wellington? Check on tophotels.com for a list of top accommodations in and around the city.
If you're planning to extend your travel to Auckland, consider booking your stay at the Ascot Epsom Motel. It boasts comfortable lodging options and is conveniently located close to many local attractions.
Morning
Morning: Breakfast with a View Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of Wellington's charming cafes. For a picturesque view of the harbor, head to the iconic Maranui Café in Lyall Bay. Savor a delicious kiwi-style breakfast while watching surfers ride the waves.
9:00 AM: Te Papa Tongarewa - Museum of New Zealand After breakfast, make your way to the award-winning Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand's national museum. Explore the rich cultural and natural history of the country through interactive exhibits and impressive collections. Don't miss the colossal squid on display, a must-see for science enthusiasts.
11:00 AM: Cable Car Ride and Botanic Garden Take a short stroll to the Wellington Cable Car station. This iconic red cable car will whisk you up to the Wellington Botanic Garden in just a few minutes. Explore the lush gardens, visit the fragrant Lady Norwood Rose Garden, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the historic Bolton Street Cemetery.
When I’m tattooing travelers from all parts of the globe, I’m often asked about the best things to see, do, and experience in Wellington. In my view, the best weekends always start with a hearty brunch, so head to one of these top spots to fill your belly first. Spruce Goose Café and Maranui are close to the airport and have beautiful views of Lyall Bay, a popular surfing beach. A little farther from the airport is Chocolate Fish Café, which has a great setup for kids, with bikes for them to play on while you enjoy your kai (food).
After brunch, visit the Te Papa Museum of New Zealand. Our world-class museum will not disappoint. Learn about ancient Maori culture and be sure to check out the spectacular contemporary Maori marae (meeting grounds) on the top floor, by game-changing Maori artist Cliff Whiting.
Near Te Papa you’ll find Kura Gallery and Toi Maori Art Gallery, where you can pick up a piece by an authentic local artist. When shopping for Maori art, be sure to inquire about the tribal affiliations of the artist whose work you are considering buying. If they don’t have any tribal affiliations, they are not an authentic Maori artist. Be a responsible traveler and use your discernment when deciding which art to invest in and who you want to support.
Afternoon
12:30 PM: Lunch at Cuba Street Head back to the city center and have lunch at bustling Cuba Street, a vibrant pedestrian mall filled with cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. You'll find a wide range of dining options to suit your tastes.
2:00 PM: Weta Workshop Tour For movie buffs and fans of "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" trilogies, a visit to Weta Workshop is a must. Join a guided tour to get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the magic of filmmaking, including the creation of props, costumes, and special effects.
4:00 PM: Explore Oriental Bay Spend your afternoon at Oriental Bay, a beautiful waterfront area perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. Enjoy the sandy beach, go for a swim, or simply relax and take in the stunning views of the bay. The bay is especially picturesque during sunset.
If you have a car and fancy venturing out of the city, the Kapiti Coast on the furthest outreach of the Wellington Region has a lot to offer. Visit any of the beaches along the way like Plimmerton, Paekakariki, Raumati, Waikanae, or Otaki. Take in the view of the beautiful and historically significant Kapiti Island while you’re at it.
Getting tattooed is a very popular way for travelers to mark their time in Aotearoa (the Maori name for New Zealand). If I am not in the country at the time of your visit, I recommend tattoo artists Lorna Tawhiti and Tim Hunt in the Wellington Region. As with all top artists, contact them in advance to book an appointment.
Nightfall
6:00 PM: Dinner at Mount Victoria Lookout As evening approaches, head to Mount Victoria Lookout for a memorable dinner experience. There are various dining options available nearby, each offering a unique atmosphere and delectable cuisine. While you dine, you'll be treated to panoramic views of Wellington, especially beautiful as the city lights begin to twinkle.
8:00 PM: Nightlife in Courtenay Place End your perfect day by exploring Courtenay Place, the heart of Wellington's nightlife. This bustling street is lined with bars, clubs, and theaters. Whether you're in the mood for a craft beer, live music, or dancing, you'll find it here.
Wellington's compact size makes it easy to explore in a day, but if you have more time, consider extending your stay to fully immerse yourself in the city's rich culture and natural beauty. Regardless of your schedule, this capital city is sure to leave a lasting impression with its unique charm and vibrant atmosphere.
Once you've experienced the serene allure of Wellington’s environs, venture into Cuba Street located at the heart of the business hub. Known to be the epicenter of retail therapy, effervescent bars, and quaint cafés, this area holds many fond memories for me from my teenage years. I recommend spending some time at the Havana Bar or Laundry Bar, famous haunts nestled on Cuba Street where the ambiance, beverage variety, and friendly people add to the city's charm. Also, do consider visiting the Moon Bar settled in Newtown. These venues present a perfect opportunity to savour some of the best that Wellington's nightlife has to offer.
While immersing yourself in the local culture, try using the local greeting kia ora and make the most out of your time. We hope you relish your stay in our splendid city and that you're drawn back before long!