24 Best Things to Do in Wellington, New Zealand
Ahh, Wellington. This epic little city (and the capital of New Zealand) is a gem in so many ways.
Situated on a beautiful harbour and flanked by tree-topped hills, Wellington is a compact, easily walkable city with so many things to do.
With its creative atmosphere, craft breweries, green belt full of walking trails, and an incredible food and coffee scene, you can easily spend a couple of days exploring here.
I lived in Wellington for over 4 years and still love returning for visits. It’s my favourite city in New Zealand, and my goal with this guide is to help you love Wellington as much as I do.
Now, I do need to warn you that the city has earned its nickname, “Windy Welly,” rightfully so. On some days, the howling winds feel like they’ll blow you right off your feet.
When the wind dies down and the sun shines on the city, though, the local saying “you can’t beat Welly on a good day” couldn’t be more true. And even if the weather isn’t great on your visit (which is always possible), there’s plenty of indoor fun to keep you occupied.
So bring your windbreaker, walking shoes, and a hungry appetite, and come see some of my favourite places in Wellington.
FYI: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). I only share products & services I use, love & would recommend to a friend.
Some quick tips for your Wellington visit
- Wellington’s city centre is easily explored on foot or by public bus—you won’t need a car if you plan to stick around the CBD. However, if you want to explore walks, beaches, or areas further afield, a car will come in handy.
Tip: If you need a rental car, I recommend Apex Rentals. They have a location in the city centre and another close to the Wellington Airport, and their prices are usually the best around.
Bonus: if you plan to head down to the South Island, they’ll pay for the vehicle on the Interislander Ferry.
- If you’re visiting Wellington on a road trip and have a car with you, try to book accommodation that includes parking (which is admittedly a bit hard to find). My top recommendation is below!
My favourite hotel in Wellington
Copthorne Hotel Oriental Bay
The Copthorne Hotel is my go-to place to stay whenever I visit Wellington.
Their rooms aren’t anything fancy, but the location is ideal. You’ll be right on the waterfront at the base of Mount Victoria, and just a short walk from the city centre.
They have parking available for an extra fee ($30 per night the last time I stayed here), or you can usually find street parking along Oriental Parade in the evening and on weekends.
I highly recommend splurging a bit on a room with a harbour view!
A perk when you stay here is that you get access to the Freyberg gym and pool across the street, which has a sauna, hot tub, and steam room.
For more Wellington accommodation recommendations, see the bottom of this guide.
Top Things to Do in Wellington
1. Hike to the Mount Victoria lookout
If there’s one Wellington walk I think everyone should do at least once, it’s the walk up to the Mount Victoria Lookout.
Also known as “Mount Vic” by locals, the view from this summit is arguably the best in the city. It’ll give you a great bird’s-eye view over the city, harbour, and South Coast, and it’s an excellent way to get your bearings.
There are multiple ways to access the top of Mount Vic, with the Mount Victoria Lookout Walkway (marked by purple signs) being the most popular and straightforward option.
However, my favourite route starts at the Grass Street trailhead in Oriental Bay. From here, follow the stairs up to the Southern Walkway (pink signs), and eventually connect with the Mount Victoria Lookout Walkway.
This walk is a bit strenuous, but very doable for moderate fitness levels. All in all, it’ll take around 45-60 minutes to get to the lookout, and the scenery along the way is absolutely breathtaking.
If you’d prefer, you can also drive to the summit or take the #20 bus to get there. But if you’re up for a walk, I really do recommend getting there on foot—it’s an exhilarating way to kick off a visit to Wellington!
2. Visit the Te Papa Museum
The Te Papa Museum, known formally as Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, is a stellar place to visit, even if you’re not normally a museum person.
Te Papa is free for New Zealanders, and for international visitors there’s a $35 entrance fee per person (for those over age 16).
It’s well worth the fee, believe me. You can easily spend hours here, and it’s one of the best ways to learn more about New Zealand’s history, culture, and environment.
There are a few exhibits in particular that you won’t want to miss. One of these is Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War, which gives an informative and heartbreaking overview of New Zealand’s involvement in WWI.
The exhibit was created in conjunction with Wētā Workshop and features huge, lifelike sculptures of New Zealanders who served their country in the war. It’s a sobering exhibit of epic proportions, and one you won’t forget.
Another fantastic exhibit to check out is Te Taiao | Nature, which showcases New Zealand’s natural world both past and present.
Learn all about the country’s native flora and fauna, discover how volcanic activity has shaped the landscape, and marvel at the colossal squid specimen on display (yes, you read that right—for some, the squid alone is worth a visit to the museum!).
3. Ride the Cable Car to the Wellington Botanic Gardens
The iconic Wellington Cable Car ride is short but sweet, with the journey itself taking all of five minutes.
It’s well worth doing, though, because it carries you up to a beautiful view of the city and the entrance to the Wellington Botanic Gardens.
You’ll find the Cable Car entrance down an alley right off Lambton Quay. The cars run every 10 minutes during the daytime and you can purchase tickets onsite on the day or online beforehand.
The Cable Car is $12 return or $6.50 one-way for adults at the time of writing, with lower fares for children. I always purchase the one-way fare and then walk back down to the city through the Botanic Gardens.
Once you reach the top of the Cable Car, I recommend heading into the Botanic Gardens and taking the “Downhill Path” to get back to the city.
Along the way, make stops at the Australian gardens, fragrant gardens, and duck pond. If it’s a nice day, you just might be tempted to bring a book and linger for a while on a sunny bench.
When you reach the Founders Entrance and soundshell, walk from there up to the Lady Norwood Rose Gardens.
From the rose gardens, head back into the city via the historic Bolton Cemetery. You’ll pass the Beehive (New Zealand’s Parliament Building) just before you reach Lambton Quay again, and your loop walk is complete!
4. Look for native birds at Zealandia
Zealandia is an ecosanctuary located a short distance from the city centre.
If you’re a nature lover, it’s a wonderful place to spend an afternoon in the city while bird-watching and feeling surrounded by forest.
Zealandia is fully fenced to keep predators out, and it feels a bit like you’re entering Jurassic Park. To have this type of nature so close to a city is pretty special.
Once you’re in the park, keep your eyes peeled and ears open for birds like the bellbird, kākā, takahē, and ruru (my personal favourite—New Zealand’s only surviving native owl).
You also might see tuatara, a rare prehistoric reptile that is endemic to New Zealand. If you’d like to look for kiwi, you can opt for a nighttime tour to try your luck.
The easiest way to get to Zealandia is to take the free shuttle, which leaves from the top of the Cable Car.
Alternatively, you can take the public bus (and walk about 5 minutes from the bus stop to Zealandia) or drive yourself (parking is limited, but free).
5. Walk the Wellington Waterfront
The Wellington Waterfront Walk is one of my must-do’s whenever I’m in the city.
This flat, gentle walk is about 2 km one-way, although you can just walk a section of it if you’re short on time or energy.
Overlooking the harbour and lined with cafes, gelato shops, and hangout spaces, it’s a delightful place to go for a wander.
Start your walk near Queen’s Wharf and follow the path towards Frank Kitts Park and the Whareipo Lagoon. If you peer down into the water occasionally, you might spot stingrays below.
Keep walking until you reach the Taranaki Wharf Jump Platform. On a sunny day, you might spot local kids (and some grown-up kids-at-heart, like my partner 😅) plunging into the water below.
As you continue along the waterfront, you’ll pass the iconic Solace of the Wind sculpture. Eventually, you’ll reach the colourful Wellington boat sheds, which always make for a great photo-op.
From the Boat Sheds, walk along Oriental Parade to Oriental Bay Beach. The promenade is lined with Norfolk pines and overlooks golden sandy beaches on one side, while the other side is backed by Mount Victoria and an array of colourful homes and cafes.
On a sunny day, Oriental Bay Beach is a wonderful spot for a cold swim in the sea.
Tip: As you walk along the Wellington Waterfront, keep a lookout for pieces of the Wellington Writers Walk. They’re plaques etched with poetry and musings from writers, and are hidden all along this walk.
6. Explore Cuba Street
Cuba Street is one of Wellington’s most famous and vibrant streets.
Home to numerous eateries, bars, boutique and vintage shops, buskers, and the iconic Bucket Fountain, Cuba Street is a treat for the senses.
I recommend simply walking up and down Cuba Street and popping into places that strike your fancy.
Some of my favourite shops here are Wellington Apothecary, Iko Iko, and Pegasus Books (which is located in the Left Bank alleyway just off Cuba Street).
There are also some great eateries along Cuba Street, including Fred’s Sandwiches, Scopa, Ombra, Kisa, and the Ram.
7. Book a Wēta Workshop tour
If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, or at all curious about movie-making magic, a Wēta Workshop tour will be a fantastic addition to your Wellington visit.
Wēta Workshop is where many of the special effects and props were created for films like the Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, and Avatar. The guided tour gives a behind-the-scenes look into how movie weapons, costumes, and prosthetics are made.
The workshop is located in the suburb of Miramar. To get there, you can either drive, take the #2 bus from the city centre, or book a tour that includes a shuttle transfer.
You’ll need to book in advance (tours regularly sell out), so plan accordingly.
8. Get coffee & breakfast at a Wellington cafe
Wellingtonians take their coffee seriously, and the city’s cafe scene is top-notch. It’s a big part of Wellington’s culture, and one I definitely recommend you indulge in while you’re here.
There are numerous roasters based in Wellington, and some truly excellent places to grab a coffee (flat whites for me, please!) and tuck into some good food.
Here are some of my favourite cafes in Wellington.
- Customs: This is local roaster Coffee Supreme’s flagship cafe. They make awesome coffee and the best “fancy” toasts (last time I was here, I had such a good avocado toast with labneh and salsa verde).
- Neo Cafe: This popular cafe does great breakfast items (including an excellent eggs benedict) and they use locally roasted Coffee Supreme beans.
- Flight Coffee Hangar Cafe: You can sample several different coffee varieties with one of their coffee flights, and pair that with a meal from their all-day brunch menu.
- Beach Babylon: Enjoy brunch by the beach at this bright waterfront cafe. I love their eggs benedict on potato rosti.
- More great places for a coffee: Swimsuit, Raglan Roast, Havana Coffee Works, and Pour & Twist (this one’s filter coffee only, and they also make great matcha).
9. Sample Wellington’s craft beer scene
Wellington isn’t just New Zealand’s official capital—it’s also the country’s “Craft Beer Capital.”
There’s an impressive number of excellent breweries in Wellington, and below are my go-to spots.
The best part is that most of these (aside from Parrotdog) are within walking distance from one another, so if you’re staying in the CBD, you can sample a couple without having to worry about driving.
- Garage Project: Garage Project is quite possibly the most innovative brewery in New Zealand, and they’re a Wellington institution for good reason.
They’re particularly known for brewing experimental beers, and if you visit one of their locations, I highly recommend getting a tasting paddle so you can sample a few.
Garage Project has several locations around Wellington these days: their Aro Valley Taproom, Aro Valley Cellar Door, Wild Workshop on Furness Lane, and their newest location on Leeds Street (in the former location of Fortune Favours). - Fork & Brewer: This place brews a vast variety of different beers. I usually go here for their sours, but my partner Ty loves their IPAs.
Their selection changes often, so it’s always worth a stop to see what’s new. And if you’d like a snack with your beer (who doesn’t?), they have a good selection of food here, too. - Heyday: This bright and cheery brewery at the top of Cuba Street serves up great beers and yummy nibbles. Sit in their colourful indoor space, or outside on the patio with lawn games to enjoy.
- Parrotdog: Out in the seaside suburb of Lyall Bay, this is a spacious brewery with a retro-industrial vibe. There’s an outdoor courtyard here, too, if it’s not too windy to sit outside.
In addition to great beer, Parrotdog has good food (I love their burgers). And a beer takeaway spot next door makes it easy to grab a couple of your favourites to take with you.
More Things to Do in Wellington
10. Drive around the bays
If you have a car, one of the best things to do in Wellington is to take a scenic drive along the coastline.
The drive is easy to follow—you simply continue along the water the entire way, so it’s hard to get too lost!
Starting from the city centre, drive east towards Oriental Bay and make your way to the Miramar Peninsula.
Keep an eye out for the “Wellywood” sign, then make your way onto Shelley Bay Road. Then drive along Shelley Bay until you reach Point Halswell.
📍Massey Memorial
Park and do the short walk up to the Massey Memorial, a historical monument to commemorate William Ferguson Massey, one of New Zealand’s former prime ministers.
The monument is beautiful and offers sweeping views over the Wellington Harbour.
From here, continue driving along Shelley Bay Road until you reach Scorching Bay Beach.
📍Scorching Bay Beach
Enjoy some fresh sea air at Scorching Bay Beach. On a sunny day, the sand has a golden glow and the water is turquoise and crystal-clear.
If you’re in need of a coffee or breakfast, stop by Scorch-o-Rama, a fantastic cafe just across the road from the beach.
Then hop back in the car and continue along the water until you reach the lovely suburb of Seatoun.
📍Point Dorset
Located in Seatoun, the 15-20 minute walk up to Point Dorset offers beautiful ocean views and remnants of WWII—you’ll encounter former gun batteries and observation posts here.
It’s fun to watch the ferries go in and out of the harbour from here.
If you’d like to do a longer walk, you can also connect to the Eastern Walkway.
From Point Dorset, drive along Breaker Bay towards Lyall Bay.
📍Lyall Bay
Lyall Bay is Wellington’s surf suburb, with a lovely sandy beach and, when the conditions are right, lots of surfers out in the water.
It’s nice to stroll along Lyall Bay Beach and watch the surfers in action (or get out amongst it if you’re a surfer yourself). And if you’re feeling hungry or thirsty, pop into either Maranui Cafe or Parrotdog Brewery.
From Lyall Bay, start making your way to the seaside suburb of Island Bay.
📍Princess Bay
Located between Lyall Bay and Island Bay, Princess Bay is a small, sandy beach cove that’s a popular swimming and sunbathing spot on a nice day.
There’s a parking area right by the beach, and it’s nice to stop here and take in the views. If it’s a clear day, you’ll be able to see the South Island across the Cook Strait.
Then, continue on to Island Bay.
📍Island Bay
This lovely coastal suburb of Island Bay is home to a beautiful sandy beach and some good eateries.
If you’re keen for a meat pie, I can highly recommend Patrisha’s Pies. They make an amazing lasagna pie, and their veggie pies are also excellent. Or, just past the beach is Beach House and Kiosk, which is a lovely spot for a snack and drink with an ocean view.
There’s a hidden gem of a walk in Island Bay up to the Oku Street Reserve. I used to live in Island Bay and this was my daily walk—I highly recommend it for a short walk full of epic ocean views!
After driving beyond Island Bay, your last stop will be the Red Rocks Reserve in Owhiro Bay.
📍Red Rocks Reserve
If you feel like a walk, there is a lovely 2-3 hour return hike here, the Red Rocks Coastal Walk, which leads you to a seal colony and, on a clear day, views over to the South Island’s Southern Alps.
Even if you don’t feel up for a walk, the reserve is also just a beautiful place to stop for a breather.
And if you’re travelling in a self-contained campervan, this is also one of the best freedom camping spots in the North Island.
From Red Rocks Reserve, continue back to the city along Happy Valley Road. But if you’re not ready for the fun to end, you could consider a game of mini golf at the quirky and wonderful Carlucci Land along the way.
Now that’s a day in Wellington well spent, if you ask me!
11. Watch a movie at a boutique cinema
Wellington is a hub for film production in New Zealand, giving the city the nickname “Wellywood.”
It played an important role in the filming of Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings series, with Wētā Workshop in Miramar completing much of the special effects and props for the movies.
There’s even a play on the classic Hollywood sign here—but in typical Wellington fashion, it’s made to look like it’s blowing away.
If the weather isn’t great, try visiting one of Wellington’s awesome cinemas. It’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon and get a taste of the city’s movie culture.
These are the cinemas I love and return to again and again.
- Embassy Theatre: This wonderful art deco cinema has been restored to perfection. Located in a nice central location in Mount Vic, it’s a beautiful place to watch a film.
The Embassy shows a wide range of movies, from blockbuster hits to indie films. This is where the Lord of the Rings world premiere was held, if that gives any indication as to its grandiose feel. - Lighthouse Cinema: Tucked away just off Cuba Street, this charming cinema is a cosy place to watch a movie. They don’t have popcorn here, but you can get an ice cream cone, or a beer or wine, to enjoy during your movie.
- The Roxy Cinema: This luxurious cinema is truly lovely. They play new films and the occasional cult classic, all in a glamorous art deco setting. Check out their website for events, like Eat the Film.
There is an excellent restaurant here, CoCo at the Roxy, if you feel like splurging on a nice dinner before or after your film. This may just be the ultimate date spot in the city. - Other notable cinemas: The Empire Cinema in Island Bay and Penthouse Cinema in Brooklyn are also great independent cinemas with comfy seats, onsite cafes, and nice vibes.
12. Sip on drinks at a cocktail bar
Wellington has an abundance of fantastic cocktail bars, including cosy speakeasy-style bars, rooftop bars, and so much more.
If you’re after a delicious cocktail and good atmosphere, here’s where I recommend going:
- Dirty Little Secret: This rooftop bar has excellent views of the city. Enjoy a cocktail, wine, or craft beer alfresco, and feel like you’re on top of the world.
- The Arborist: Another lovely little rooftop bar. The Arborist doesn’t have lofty views like Dirty Little Secret, but instead has a garden-party vibe with colourful outdoor seating and greenery. Come here on a nice day and get a frozen cocktail to drink in the sunshine.
- The Library: This is a bookworm’s dream bar. With books lining the walls, the environment here is charming and cosy, and their cocktails are fantastic. If it’s a blustery day outside, there may be no better place to relax than the Library.
- The Hanging Ditch: If you’re after a speakeasy-style bar, head to the Hanging Ditch. The atmosphere here is cosy and intimate without feeling stuffy, and they make great cocktails at good prices.
13. Dine at one of Wellington’s restaurants
A visit to Wellington wouldn’t be complete without sampling some of the city’s food scene.
I tend to frequent casual places that won’t break the bank, but I also love some nicer places for special occasions.
Here are my favourite places to eat in Wellington, based on many years of eating my way around the city.
Cheap eats & casual dining in Wellington
- Little Penang: This place makes the tastiest Malaysian food. I love their mee goreng and char mee noodles.
- KC Cafe: A Wellington institution, KC Cafe has a huge menu and makes some of the best Chinese food in the city. Before you go, check out @kc_review on Instagram—they are working their way through the whole menu and have some great tips!
- A Taste of Home: Head here for outstanding hand-pulled Chinese noodles and wonton soup. There isn’t much seating here, so I recommend getting takeaway to enjoy at the park across the street.
- Fisherman’s Plate: This unassuming eatery makes some seriously delicious Vietnamese food. I love their pho and vermicelli noodle salads.
- Pho Viet: Another awesome Vietnamese joint in the CBD, this spot has a fun atmosphere, delicious food, and great cocktails.
- The Greek Food Truck: Go here for the best takeaway souvlaki. They have a permanent location at Moore Wilson’s and several locations around the city on select days of the week.
- Burger Liquor: These are my favourite burgers in New Zealand (bold claim, I know). The “Standard” is cheeseburger perfection. Grab a side of jalapeno poppers to go with, and if you’re feeling thirsty make sure to try one of their cocktails or house beers.
- Fred’s Sandwiches: Located on Cuba Street, this lovely little spot makes awesome toasties and fresh sandwiches. It can get really busy around lunchtime, so plan ahead.
Restaurants in Wellington for a special meal
- Ombra: This Italian spot on Cuba Street makes fantastic pasta, pizza, and salads and has a cosy, charming atmosphere.
- Ortega Fish Shack: Seafood lovers won’t want to miss Ortega Fish Shack. They serve the freshest seafood and use seasonal ingredients in their menu, which changes regularly depending on what’s available. Their wine list is excellent, too.
- Kisa: The Turkish-inspired menu here is outstanding. Get a few mezze to try and be in Mediterranean food heaven! They also have a great lunch menu that’s more affordable than dinner.
- Koji: This inventive restaurant uses seasonal NZ produce in their Asian-fusion menu. Their food is creative and packed with interesting flavour combinations. Their “just feed me” chef’s menu is a fun way to try multiple dishes.
14. Shop Local
Wellington is such a creative city and there are so many local artisans and shops that make and sell all kinds of wonderful things.
If you’re looking for a sweet souvenir to take home with you or just want to window shop, here’s where I’d go for a bit of retail therapy.
- Kowtow: This Wellington-based sustainable clothing line makes excellent everyday basics. Their College Street shop has a great selection and helpful staff.
- Wellington Chocolate Factory: Located in Hannah’s Laneway, this boutique bean-to-bar producer uses ethically-sourced ingredients to make delicious chocolate. Grab a hot chocolate while you’re there, and pick up a couple of beautifully packaged chocolate bars to take home.
- Coffee Outdoors: Outdoor lovers should head to this independent outdoor shop, which curates a small but impressive selection of quality tramping and camping gear.
- Commonsense Organics: Alongside organic produce, this store has a lovely selection of NZ-made products and cosmetics. I always stop in for essential oils and lip balms from Kererū—they’re simply the best.
- Wellington Apothecary: Located on Cuba Street, this natural beauty store sells lovely skincare products and teas. I love their Sun, Wind, Sea serum.
- Good As Gold: This is a very cool clothing store with a handpicked selection of streetwear and sneakers.
- Iko Iko: Head to this bright shop on Cuba Street for quirky souvenirs, colourful gifts, and fun posters.
15. Stock up on picnic supplies at Moore Wilson’s
Moore Wilson’s is an incredible Wellington supermarket with heaps of fresh produce, gourmet food items, and New Zealand-made goodies.
If you love to cook and shop for food like I do, you’re going to love it here. It’s a favourite destination for locals and visitors alike.
Pick up picnic supplies like a freshly-baked baguette, NZ-made cheeses, and charcuterie. Or stock up on shelf-stable goods to fill your campervan pantry or suitcase (I always leave extra room in my bag when I visit Wellington for this exact purpose).
I also recommend visiting the housewares store upstairs. It has a gorgeous selection of kitchenware, including some beautiful enamelware that I can never resist. They also have a wonderful cookbook section, with many books from New Zealand authors that you might not easily find elsewhere.
16. Pick up produce at a weekend market
On weekends, Wellington has a couple of wonderful open-air produce markets where you can pick up fresh fruit and vegetables for very reasonable prices.
In addition to fresh produce, there are food stalls serving delicious bites to fuel your vege shopping.
A quick tip: I recommend getting to the markets in the morning, before the produce starts to wilt under the sun as the day goes on. Also, do the rounds before you start buying—prices and quality can vary from vendor-to-vendor, so it’s worth shopping around a bit!
Here are a couple of markets I recommend visiting.
Harbourside Market
When & Where: Sundays 7:30 am – 2:00 pm | Google Maps
This bustling market is such a fun thing to do on a Sunday!
Even if you don’t plan to purchase produce, it’s worth visiting simply to grab a snack from one of the food vendors to enjoy by the waterfront.
Newtown Fruit & Vegetable Market
When & Where: Saturdays 7:30 am – 2:00 pm | Google Maps
The produce market in Newtown is smaller than the Harbourside Market, but I really love it. When I lived in Wellington, I’d get most of my produce from here.
You can get big bunches of fresh herbs at this market, and some unique produce you won’t always find at the regular supermarket.
17. Go op shopping
I’d be lying if I didn’t say that op shopping is one of my all-time favourite things to do in Wellington. I’ll often spend a free day op-shopping around the city because it’s just so much fun.
The city has an awesome array of op shops—especially in suburbs like Newtown and Miramar—and if you’re a thrifter or vintage hound like I am, you’re going to be spoilt for choice.
I’ll share my favourite op shops below.
Wellington City Centre op shops
- City Mission Store
- Salvation Army Family Store (Taranaki Street)
Newtown op shops
- Aunty Dana’s
- Opportunity for Animals
- Salvation Army Family Store
Miramar op shops
- Opportunity for Animals (my all-time favourite Welly op shop)
- Salvation Army Family Store
Kilbirnie op shops
- Salvation Army Family Store
Walks & hikes around Wellington
18. Mount Kaukau
🥾 Trail stats: 4.9 km loop | ~ 3 hours walk time | trailhead location
Mount Kaukau is an awesome day walk for epic views over Wellington and the coast.
This is a real local’s favourite, and for good reason. The walk offers lush forest and stunning views, all within arm’s reach of the city centre.
I like to start and end this walk at the Simla Crescent car park.
From Simla Crescent, hike up to the Mount Kaukau Summit, which is part of the Skyline Walkway.
After enjoying the summit, loop back through Khandallah Park to return to Simla Crescent.
One thing I love about this walk (besides the views) is how easy it is to access. You can get here by car or public transport—from Wellington Station, the Johnsonville Line takes you to Simla Crescent station, which is a 5-minute walk from the trailhead.
Tip: if you feel like a longer walk, you could continue on to the Skyline Walkway and hike for as long as you’d like—just remember you’ll need to walk back the same way you came from.
19. The Eastern Walkway
🥾 Trail stats: 2.5 km loop | ~ 1.5 to 2 hour walk time | trailhead location
The Eastern Walkway is a lovely loop walk along the southern end of Miramar Peninsula.
If you have a car, I recommend starting at the Tarakena Bay car park.
Alternatively, for a bus option from the city centre, take the #2 bus to Seatoun and walk to the Pass of Branda to start the walk from there.
Starting from Tarakena Bay, I like to walk counter-clockwise along the lower footpath first, where you’ll pass seaside houses from modern to ramshackle and everything in between.
The rocky coves around here usually have lots of barnacle-crusted, sun-weathered paua shells and tide pools to explore.
Once you get to Breaker Bay Beach, you have two options. You can either forgo the beach and continue up the footpath to complete your loop or walk along the beach (which is clothing-optional, just FYI) and connect to Point Dorset.
If you have time for Point Dorset, I recommend it. It’s a gorgeous detour.
From Point Dorset, take the Pass of Branda to connect back to the Eastern Walkway loop. You’ll gently climb up through pine forest to a clifftop path, which opens up to stunning views of the Cook Strait.
As you continue walking, you’ll be able to see the South Island in the distance if the skies are clear.
Walk along the ridgeline path until you reach the Ataturk Memorial Park, then make your way back to your car.
20. Paekakariki Escarpment Track
🥾 Trail stats: 9 km one-way | ~ 3 to 4 hour walk time | trailhead location
The Paekakariki Escarpment Track is my favourite day hike in the Wellington region, and I rate it as one of the best day hikes in the North Island.
With stunning ocean views over the Kāpiti Coast, more stairs than you’ll want to count, and adrenaline-spiking swingbridges, this track packs a big punch over a 3-4 hour walk.
This track isn’t nicknamed the “Stairway to Heaven” for nothing. Prepare for a strenuous stair workout on this one, but know that it comes with great rewards (views, views and more views!).
You’ll want to do this walk one-way and luckily, there’s a train to make that easy. I like walking from north to south, as the incline feels more manageable in this direction, in my opinion.
How to get to the Paekakariki Escarpment Track
- Driving option: Drive to the Pukerua Bay train station, park, and take the train to Paekakariki, where you’ll begin your walk and eventually end up back at your car.
- Car-free option: Take the train from Wellington Station straight to Paekakariki Station. After completing your walk, hop on a return train from Pukerua Bay to get back to the city.
Some things to note about this trail
- You can purchase train tickets onboard with cash or a Snapper card.
- There’s not much shade on this track. Bring plenty of water, and make sure to put on lots of sunblock and wear a hat.
- Pack some snacks or a picnic to enjoy once you’ve hiked up the stairs—you’ll be grateful for a treat after the climb!
- I would avoid this walk if you are afraid of heights or have vertigo—the track is extremely steep and narrow in parts, and there are two swingbridges with big drop-offs below.
- While this walk can be completed year-round, avoid it after heavy rain (it’s prone to slips) and don’t attempt it on a very windy day. Aim for a fine, clear day with mild wind. Make sure to check online for track updates beforehand as it does sometimes close due to slips.
- For a wildflower display, visit in spring (October-November) when the hills are dotted in pink and purple daisy-like ragwort flowers.
21. Makara Walkway
🥾 Trail stats: 7 km loop | ~ 3 to 4 hour walk time | trailhead location
The Makara Walkway is easily one of Wellington’s best walks.
This is a stellar day hike with lots on offer: incredible clifftop ocean views, sheep-dotted farmland, historical sites, and wind turbines. Needless to say, you won’t get bored on this walk!
The walkway starts at the rugged, stony Makara Beach. Unfortunately, there is no public transport to get here, so you’ll need to have a car to access this one.
Start at the trailhead and make your way up the steep track to the Fort Opau gun emplacements, with epic views to keep you company as you huff and puff. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the South Island.
From the gun emplacements, make your way down to Opau Bay along the rugged road, where you can walk along the coastline back to your car.
The walk along the lower coastline is quite rocky and uneven, so ensure you wear sturdy shoes. Also keep your eyes peeled for paua shells, as there are often heaps of them.
If you don’t want to do the whole loop, you can just walk to the Fort Opau gun emplacements (or as far as you want to go uphill), then head back down to your car the same way.
This shorter version is a great option if you want to come to Makara for sunset views.
Note: Makara Beach is very exposed to northerlies and the hilltops along the walkway are prone to gale force winds, so avoid this walk on a windy day.
On a fine day, though, this is a true treasure of a Welly walk.
Day trips from Wellington
22. Visit Kaitoke Regional Park (and see Rivendell)
Kaitoke Regional Park is located in Upper Hutt, about a 45-minute drive from the Wellington city centre.
The park is home to beautiful forest, lovely walking trails, and the Lord of the Rings filming site for Rivendell.
All of the actual props have since been removed and the filming site isn’t spectacular, but if you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, it’s neat to see where some of the action took place.
That said, my favourite part of Kaitoke Regional Park isn’t the movie site. It’s the forest itself, which has a lovely river running through it and some great swimming holes on a warm day.
For an easy walk, head out on the Swingbridge Track (about 35-40 minutes return), which leads you through the forest under a canopy of rata, rimu, beech and fern trees.
On a sunny day, this is a stellar place for a picnic. There’s also a nice campground here if you’d like to make a night or two out of it.
23. Bike to wineries in Martinborough
Martinborough is one of my all-time favourite weekend trips from Wellington, but it’s also well worth visiting for a day.
The main draw here is the abundance of vineyards. The town itself is charming and surrounded by countryside, and the wineries are relaxed and low-key. If you enjoy wine and rural scenery, you’ll love it here.
My favourite way to explore is by hiring bikes in town and cycling between vineyards. You can hire bikes from Green Jersey right in the village centre.
There are plenty of wineries to choose from, but I highly recommend visiting Poppies for a lunch platter. Their platters are amongst the best I’ve ever had, and their rosé is a delicious drop. Moy Hall is another wonderful spot for lunch and a wine tasting.
Of course, if you plan to sample a bit of wine, either limit your stops or have a designated driver. Alternatively, book a Martinborough tour from Wellington and let someone else handle the logistics.
If you have extra time, consider spending a night or two in Martinborough. It also makes a great base for exploring the wild Wairarapa coastline around Cape Palliser—more on that below!
24. Explore the Putangirua Pinnacles and Cape Palliser
Cape Palliser lies along the rugged South Wairarapa coastline and makes for a wonderful day out in nature. It’s well off-the-beaten-track, and somewhat of a hidden gem in New Zealand.
Visit Cape Palliser to see the one of the North Island’s largest fur seal colonies, climb up to the Cape Palliser lighthouse, and hike the Putangirua Pinnacles Track (which was a Lord of the Rings filming site for the “Paths of the Dead”).
On the drive in, stop at Land Girl Cafe for a coffee and cheese scone. It’s the cutest little spot.
There are no shops in Cape Palliser, so pack a picnic, drinking water, and anything else you’ll need for a day of exploring.
Where to stay in Wellington
Copthorne Hotel, Oriental Bay (mid-range $$)
I’ve mentioned this already above, but the Copthorne Hotel is my favourite hotel in Wellington.
The rooms aren’t especially stylish, but the location is excellent—you’ll be right across from Oriental Bay Beach, at the base of Mount Victoria, and just a short walk from the city centre. Parking is available onsite for an extra fee.
Their harbour view rooms are worth the splurge.
Sojourn Apartment Hotel, Ghuznee Street (mid-range $$)
If you’re after the creature comforts of home like kitchen and laundry facilities, the Sojourn Hotel on Ghuznee Street is a great choice.
The rooms here have kitchenettes, and there’s a free washer and dryer on each floor. The location is excellent—you can step out the door and be moments from Cuba Street’s restaurants and shops.
Parking is available just across the street for an extra fee, and you can reserve a space when you book your room.
The Intrepid Hotel (boutique stay $$$)
The Intrepid Hotel is a very cool place to stay in Wellington. Located in the heart of the city and above the lovely wine bar Puffin, you couldn’t be in a better spot.
Their rooms are comfortable and luxurious, and include complimentary beverages and snacks.
Parking isn’t available onsite, so this hotel is best suited for visitors without a car. That said, street parking and paid parking lots are available nearby.
Camping in Wellington
The Wellington city centre lacks a proper campground, unfortunately. The closest campground to the city centre is the Wellington Top 10 Holiday Park in Lower Hutt, a 20-minute drive from the city.
That said, if you’re travelling around New Zealand in a self-contained campervan, you could try freedom camping at either Evans Bay Marina or the Red Rocks Reserve freedom campsite. These freedom camping spots fill up fast, though, so try to arrive early and have a backup plan in case they’re full when you arrive.
I also have a full guide to camping around Wellington, so check that out if you’re keen to go camping in the area!
Thanks for reading my Wellington guide!
I truly hope this has helped you plan your visit to Wellington.
This city holds a special place in my heart. While it’s often overlooked by visitors to New Zealand, I think it’s absolutely worth your time.
If you have any questions or feedback for me, please let me know in the comments. I really love hearing from you!
Some itineraries for you
Not sure how to fit Wellington into your New Zealand trip? Here are some of my itineraries that include Wellington.
