Wellington may be New Zealand’s capital city, but it’s far from your average capital. Nestled between harbour and hills, it blends creativity, political energy, and a vibrant food scene. Compact, walkable, and full of character, Wellington is packed with activities ranging from museums and film tours to coastal walks and craft breweries.

🎨 Te Papa Tongarewa – Museum of New Zealand

Wellington’s crown jewel is Te Papa, the national museum. Known for its interactive exhibits and storytelling, it covers everything from Māori culture to natural history and contemporary art. Entry is free, and highlights include the Gallipoli exhibition and the colossal squid.

🏛️ Parliament & The Beehive

Visit New Zealand’s centre of government at the Beehive and Parliament Buildings. Free guided tours run daily, offering a fascinating look at Kiwi democracy. It’s a unique experience that blends politics, architecture, and history.

🎬 Weta Workshop – Lord of the Rings Magic

Fans of film shouldn’t miss a trip to Weta Workshop, where many of the props and effects for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit were created. Guided tours take you behind the scenes of movie-making magic, with plenty of memorabilia and photo ops.

🍺 Wellington’s Craft Beer & Food Scene

Wellington is often called the craft beer capital of New Zealand, with dozens of breweries and taprooms to explore. Pair this with the city’s buzzing food culture — from high-end restaurants to quirky food trucks — and you’ve got a culinary destination worth savouring.

🚋 Wellington Cable Car & Botanic Garden

Hop on the historic Wellington Cable Car for a short but scenic ride from Lambton Quay to the Botanic Garden. At the top, enjoy city views, stroll through themed gardens, and visit the Space Place observatory.

🏖️ Oriental Bay & Waterfront Walk

Just steps from the city centre, Oriental Bay is Wellington’s golden-sand beach. The waterfront walkway is perfect for strolling, cycling, or kayaking, with cafés, sculptures, and gelato spots along the way.

🦭 Zealandia Ecosanctuary

Only 10 minutes from downtown, Zealandia is a groundbreaking eco-sanctuary restoring native birdlife and flora. Walk through predator-proof bush and spot tūī, kākā, and even little spotted kiwi on night tours.

🛶 Wellington Harbour & Coastline Adventures

Take to the water with a harbour kayak tour, paddleboarding, or even a scenic sailing trip. For something more rugged, explore the south coast with its seal colonies, wild seas, and the windswept Red Rocks Reserve.

🎭 Cuba Street & City Culture

Cuba Street is Wellington’s creative hub — full of street art, vintage shops, live music venues, and eclectic eateries. Don’t miss the quirky Bucket Fountain, a local icon. The city also has a thriving theatre and live music scene year-round.

🎟️ Events – WOW & More

Wellington hosts some of New Zealand’s most iconic festivals and events:

• World of Wearable Art (WOW) – a spectacular fashion-meets-art show.

• New Zealand International Film Festival – celebrating global cinema.

• CubaDupa – a colourful street festival of music, art, and performance.

🚢 Interislander Ferry – Gateway to the South Island

Many travellers pass through Wellington to cross to the South Island. The Interislander Ferry to Picton is an experience in itself, with stunning views of Wellington Harbour, Cook Strait, and the Marlborough Sounds.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Wellington is a city that feels like a small town but delivers world-class experiences. From the interactive exhibits of Te Papa to sipping craft beer on Cuba Street, exploring Zealandia’s native forest, or setting sail across Cook Strait, there’s no shortage of things to do in New Zealand’s cool, compact capital.