The Best Things to Do in Wellington, New Zealand

New Zealand’s capital city Wellington is worth a visit for those on a trip down under who want a bit of everything: beautiful city views, interesting buildings, public art, great restaurants, bars and a complex, well-documented history. Check out this list of the best things to do to experience the creative energy and vibe of Wellington.
Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

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Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture tripCentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great priceAfrica
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.Explore Oriental Bay on wheels
Natural Feature
Whizzing along the concrete sidewalk of the Oriental Bay parade on an electric scooter is the quickest and most exhilarating way to get from this part of the city to Lambton Quay near the harbour. Pass the glittering blue waters, ships and yachts through Waitangi Park and stop for a quick coffee and a scone at a café along the way. Scooters can be hired with a smartphone app and can be picked up and left anywhere (away from the water’s edge) when finished.
Learn more about Māori culture at the Te Papa Museum
Museum
Located in the neighbourhood of Te Aro is the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, home to several permanent exhibits showcasing New Zealand’s unique natural environment and indigenous Māori culture. Visit the Mana Whenua permanent exhibit, which celebrates the richness of Māori heritage and life, from ancient times to present-day lived experiences. The museum is open every day from 10am to 6pm and is free to the public except for certain temporary exhibitions.
Discover public art sculptures and famous buildings
Architectural Landmark
The urban landscape of New Zealand’s capital city Wellington presents a series of facades: one that contains its historical colonial legacy through old buildings and statues from early settlers, through to urban design interventions highlighting Māori culture and public art installations interpreting the space and tension between these dualities. The city is also constantly evolving, due to earthquake strengthening and increasing development. Visitors can learn more about this city’s unique identity on a walking tour. Walk Wellington offers guided tours by volunteers every day at 10am and depart from the Wellington i-Site visitor centre.
View the original Treaty of Waitangi at the National Library
Library
The most famous legal document in New Zealand’s history, the Treaty of Waitangi can be viewed in its original form at the National Library of New Zealand in Thorndon. The Treaty is considered to be New Zealand’s founding document and can be viewed as part of the He Tohu exhibition in a special light and temperature-controlled room. The Women’s Suffrage Petition can also be viewed here. This petition led to New Zealand becoming the first self-governing country to give women the right to vote in 1893.
Watch the sunset from Mount Victoria lookout
Natural Feature
Major cities around the world feature magnificent skylines, and New Zealand’s capital is no different. The best place to enjoy 360-degree views of the CBD and surrounding hills at sunset is from the Mount Victoria lookout. Stay until after the sun goes down to watch the city’s nightlife establishments come to life in brilliant neon colours glowing in the dark. The viewing deck can be reached on foot or by car and is surrounded by tall flax plants and a few public art sculptures.
Wine and dine in Te Aro
Architectural Landmark
Wellington arguably has the best inner-city nightlife scene in the whole country. Party central is in the suburb of Te Aro, home to the famous Courtenay Place and Cuba Street. Here, visitors can choose from a range of happy hour specials for drinks, with restaurants competing for patrons with excellent dining choices from around the world. The party goes on till the early hours of the morning, and both streets are within easy walking distance of each other.
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It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
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