At the centre of New Zealand you’ll find Wellington, a region with so much to offer. Nestled between green hills and a sparkling harbour, the city is full of things just waiting to be discovered.
Spring’s the thing in the capital. There’s a smell of fun in the air, or maybe it’s the flowers? As the temperature warms up so does the buzz about all the events happening. Choose your own adventure from international sports to music festivals and a theatrical extravaganza.
Treat your taste buds at one of these new cafés, restaurants, and bars in Wellington.
From serene walks in the bush to daredevil antics in the treetops, animal encounters to world first nature reserves — Wellington gets you up close and personal with nature.
Wellington is a city that takes its mid-morning meal seriously. Whether you’re in the mood for eggs just the way you like them, a vegan feast, or a sweet treat, you’ll find a meal to suit your cravings. Cosy up in a casual café, or get your crew together to debrief on the week. Here’s where to get brunch in Wellington.
It’s compact and walkable, has a calendar full of events, and is stacked with great bars and restaurants. Wellington is the perfect weekend getaway.
Wondering where to eat with dogs in Wellington? These dog-friendly cafés and bars are a great place to start. If you’ve got a furry friend with a taste for a puppuccino, or you’re a dog lover hoping to spot a good boy/girl, these cafés and bars are great spots for dogs and humans alike.
There’s so much to see and do in the capital. To get you started, here are the top 10 things to do when you visit.
Hei whakanui i te wiki o te Reo Māori, anei ētahi kīanga paku hei āwhina i a koe ki te huri haere, kia whānui ake hoki tō mōhio mō Te Whanganui a Tara.
It's the most Welly-ful time of the year. Find a new deal every day from 1 to 24 December (and a few special surprises), and artwork from Wellington illustrator Bonnie Brown.
Explore AdventPart of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail, Wellington is the perfect place to sample a local drop (or two). The city’s wine bars offer tasty food, a relaxing ambience, and, of course, an impressive selection from the cellar. Natural or biodynamic? Local, or from further afield? Take your pick at these wine bars around Wellington.
There’s a reason why they say you can’t beat Wellington on a good day. When it’s one of those days, the capital has a great selection of outside dining options. Whether day or night check out these spaces for fair-weather dining and drinks.
Customs is at the heart of the capital’s coffee scene, and a trip to Wellington wouldn’t be complete without a stop here.
Get your fix of American burger bars at this central Wellington restaurant.
No matter the day, there’s a foodie deal in the capital. From eggs for breakfast to pizza for dinner, you can have a delicious day, whatever your budget.
A hotspot for all things fun and entertainment, there’s plenty to tempt your tastebuds on one of Wellington’s buzziest streets — Courtenay Place.
Rise and shine for your daily dose of carbs at these Wellington bakeries. From pillowy doughnuts and flaky croissants, to crunchy, chewy loaves of bread, the proof here is in the pastry.
You’ll feel right at home at this cosy Newtown spot that’s part restaurant, part wine bar.
The first carboNZero-certified zoo in the world, Te Nukuao Wellington Zoo puts conservation at the centre of everything it does.
A dominant feature of the Kāpiti Coast, this nature reserve is home to many endangered species.
Walk the corridors of power and see where New Zealand laws and policies are made.
One of the city’s most iconic experiences, Wellington Cable Car leads to some of the best views of the capital.
Visit the home of movie-making magic in the heart of Wellywood, and see behind the scenes of world-renowned films and television.
This pest-proof ‘urban island’ is the closest thing you’ll find to experiencing what New Zealand was like before humans.
Get among the treetops at Adrenalin Forest — an epic aerial obstacle course designed to challenge you physically and mentally.
With rare forests, picnic spots and native wildlife, Ngā Manu nature reserve is a top spot to go for a day out on the Kāpiti Coast.
14 – 15 March 2025Wellington Waterfront
17 January – 27 April 2025Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
20 February – 13 July 2025Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre
19 January 2025
28 November 2024 – 20 January 2025Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre
7 December 2024TSB Arena
18 May – 14 December 2024Michael Fowler Centre
14 – 31 August 2025St James Theatre
27 January 2025Michael Fowler Centre
Wellington’s big backyard is packed full of outdoor adventures and unmissable experiences.
With two harbours, extensive trails, and a beating cultural heart, Porirua is worth exploring.
Sandy beaches, spectacular landscapes, and friendly people are all just a short drive from Wellington.
Whether you walk, bike, hike, or horse ride, discover trails for all walks of life across the region.
Everything you need to plan your ultimate stay in Wellington.