Things to do in Wellington

Activities, attractions and tours

Mount Victoria Lookout showing a city, a bay or harbour and night scenes
Wellington
Wellington
Wellington featuring a marina, a bay or harbour and a coastal town
Wellington which includes food
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Top places to visit

1. Te Papa

With six floors packed with an array of exhibitions and interactive installations, visitors to the Te Papa Tongarewa (Museum of New Zealand) can explore the history and culture of New Zealand and its rich biodiversity.
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Te Papa

2. Cuba Street Mall

Cuba Street Mall is one of Wellington’s trendiest areas. Its historic buildings, funky shops, café culture and eclectic mix of residents make it a magnet for visitors and locals alike.
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Cuba Street Mall featuring outdoor eating and café lifestyle as well as a large group of people

3. Courtenay Place

It is said that Wellington has more bars and restaurants per capita than New York City. “The Windy City” is renowned for its appreciation of fine dining, excellent cheap eats, specialty coffee, superb wine and craft beer. Courtenay Place is where you will find the heart of Wellington’s culinary culture. It is also the entertainment hub with bars, clubs, theatres and cinemas.
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Courtenay Place featuring a bar and interior views as well as a small group of people

4. TSB Bank Arena

Visit TSB Bank Arena for international art shows, sports events and expositions. The arena is one of Wellington’s most versatile spaces, making it perfect for large-scale music performances. Check the TSB Bank Arena calendar for upcoming events or admire the grand structure, located on the scenic Wellington Waterfront.
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TSB Arena which includes modern architecture

5. Michael Fowler Centre

Michael Fowler Centre is a convention centre and concert hall in Wellington’s cultural precinct. The centre, home of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, hosts international opera, theatre, music events and conferences. Attend a classical music performance or visit the centre to admire its striking architecture.
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Michael Fowler Centre showing night scenes, a bay or harbour and modern architecture

What to do in Wellington

Popular places to visit

Te Papa

Te Papa

Get hands on as you learn about the heritage of these islands at New Zealand's free national museum.

Te Papa
Wellington which includes interior views and kayaking or canoeing

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 fascinating museums and acclaimed art galleries in this walkable area.

Wellington Central Business District
Cuba Street Mall featuring outdoor eating and café lifestyle as well as a large group of people

Cuba Street Mall

Enjoy artisan coffees, sample specialty foods, browse through vintage shops or hunt for retro bargains in Wellington's bohemian heart.

Cuba Street Mall
Courtenay Place featuring a bar and interior views as well as a small group of people

Courtenay Place

Shop, wine and dine in this culinary hot spot on one of Wellington's most fashionable streets.

Courtenay Place
TSB Arena which includes modern architecture

TSB Bank Arena

Located on Wellington’s picturesque waterfront, this multipurpose venue hosts many events, including concerts, trade shows, art exhibitions and more.

TSB Bank Arena
Michael Fowler Centre showing night scenes, a bay or harbour and modern architecture

Michael Fowler Centre

Wellington’s main stage for conferences and indoor events features award-winning architecture and a year-round calendar of music and arts events.

Michael Fowler Centre
Lambton Quay

Lambton Quay

During your visit to Wellington, you can do some window-shopping at Lambton Quay. Stroll along this family-friendly area's waterfront or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Lambton Quay
Weta Workshop featuring a statue or sculpture and interior views

The Weta Cave

Learn the special effects secrets behind films such as The Lord of the Rings and Avatar with a tour through this Academy Award-winning studio.

The Weta Cave
Zealandia

Zealandia

A fascinating eco-attraction that takes you back in history to explore prehistoric New Zealand.

Zealandia

Areas of Wellington

Wellington which includes interior views and kayaking or canoeing

Wellington CBD

If you're spending some time in Wellington CBD, Wellington Cable Car and Museum of Wellington City and Sea are top sights worth seeing.

Wellington CBD
Courtenay Place featuring a bar and interior views as well as a small group of people

Te Aro

4.5/5(47 area reviews)

Te Aro is known for its popular shops, and with sights like St James Theatre and Cuba Street Mall, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Wellington.

Te Aro
Wellington which includes a bridge, a sunset and a city

Wellington Waterfront

The abundant dining options and interesting 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.

Wellington Waterfront
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Petone

4/5(7 area reviews)

Seaside views, cafes and waterfront views highlight some of the notable features of Petone. Make a stop by Petone Foreshore while you're exploring.

Petone
Mount Victoria Lookout showing night scenes, a city and a bay or harbour

Mount Victoria

If you're spending some time in Mount Victoria, Mount Victoria Lookout and Oriental Parade are top sights worth seeing.

Mount Victoria
Wellington Zoo showing zoo animals and cuddly or friendly animals

Newtown

If you're spending some time in Newtown, Newtown Park and Wellington Zoo are top sights worth seeing.

Newtown

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Lower Hutt

Lower Hutt

Frequently asked questions

Is Wellington worth visiting?
Famous for its nature and dining, discovering cool things to do in Wellington is a breeze. Don't forget to add Lambton Quay to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Wellington?
Once you've checked off popular attractions like Lambton Quay and Petone Foreshore, spend some time discovering Wellington's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Wellington?
You can't go home without visiting Lambton Quay, rated the top tourist attraction in Wellington.
Is three days enough to stay in Wellington?
Three days will give you plenty of time to check out the leading city highlights, such as Lambton Quay, The Opera House and Eastbourne Beach. The average stay in Wellington is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your trip, Lower Hutt isn't far away.
Is Wellington a walkable city?
It all depends on what you want to do and see in Wellington. Several top attractions, like Lambton Quay and The Opera House, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Wellington's neighbourhoods, Wellington CBD is 0.16 kilometres away from downtown, while Te Aro is 2 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Wellington with kids?
Planning what to do in Wellington with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're holidaying with little ones or teenagers, there are lots of family-friendly sights and activities to keep them busy here.

What to do in Wellington for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Wellington, with experiences for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Parliament House or Wellington Cenotaph.
Are there free things to do in Wellington?
From visiting parks to strolling around exciting neighbourhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Wellington. If you're in need of ideas, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Lambton Quay is a top spot for anyone wishing to save on their sightseeing activities.