Wellington is the capital of New Zealand. You’ve probably heard that it’s unique because of its less-than-comfortable climate. It’s very windy here, but this drawback is easily offset by the city’s lively atmosphere. It’s a creative capital with unique characteristics. It is a place for people who want to get a quality education and build a career, as well as for creative people who are looking for inspiration.
We have compiled a list of 10 things to do if you find yourself in the “Best Little Capital City in the World.”
Check out the city overview, its specifics and economy, architecture, Cuba Street, educational institutions, nightlife, gardens and zoo, cinema and Weta Cave, climate and entertainment.
Visit the Te Papa Museum
Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, will be of interest to visitors of all ages. The exhibits are innovative and interactive. The permanent exhibition will introduce you to the geology and nature of New Zealand, the history of the indigenous Maori people, as well as the country’s culture, science, and visual arts.
In addition to exhibitions, the museum hosts free outdoor events: theater performances, lectures, workshops, and much more.
Admission to the museum (permanent exhibition) is free.
We recommend visiting the most popular exhibition, created by Weta Workshop. The exhibition is dedicated to World War I and New Zealand’s participation in the Battle of Gallipoli.
The best viewpoint in Wellington is Mount Victoria
Panoramic and picturesque views of the harbor, city, and its surroundings. The highest point is 196 meters. You can get there by car, bus from Wellington’s central business district (CBD), or on foot.
Visit coffee shops
They say that Wellington is also the coffee capital, with more coffee shops and restaurants per capita than New York, and all of them are damn good. Coffee shops are located on literally every corner, and the locals themselves admit
that they are “a little” obsessed with coffee.
Wellington Cable Car
Take a ride on the historic cable car, one of Wellington’s most popular tourist attractions.
The cable car runs from downtown Wellington to the picturesque suburb of Kelburn and the Wellington Botanic Garden. It departs every 10 minutes and climbs to a height of 120 meters. From there, you can enjoy stunning views of the city’s business center and Victoria University.
A trip to the Zealandia wildlife reserve
Just a 10-minute drive from downtown Wellington is the Zealandia eco-reserve. Hidden in the suburbs, this green corner aims to show visitors the nature of New Zealand as it was before humans arrived. Here you can see more than 20 species of native wild plants, unique New Zealand birds, and even book a night tour to search for kiwi birds.
Weta Cave Studio
At the Weta Cave mini museum, you can see some of the exhibits from the famous Lord of the Rings trilogy, visit the film studio where the magic of special effects happens, and even take a tour and try your hand at creating your own movie character.
Wellington Waterfront – Oriental Bay
The Wellington Waterfront is a beautiful place with many cafes, parks, art installations, and bars. It is a favorite spot for locals to play sports or simply stroll along the beach.
Wellington Zoo
Have you ever wanted to feed a giraffe or play with a bunch of meerkats? All this and much more is possible at Wellington Zoo, “the best small zoo in the world.” The zoo is also home to over 100 species of animals.
Walking tour of the city
A guided walking tour is the best way to quickly get to know Wellington and discover the heart and soul of New Zealand’s capital. Local guides will show you the key historical and cultural attractions and give you an insight into this vibrant city. They will tell you stories about the past and present, about the people and places of Wellington. Things you won’t always find in guidebooks.
Cuba Street
Cuba Street is home to hipsters, artists, and vintage lovers. The street is a bohemian haven with the city’s most colorful shops, bars, cafes, and food markets. Every evening, street performers play music, put on theater shows, and hold poetry readings. A must-visit for lovers of creativity and music.
