10 ways to explore Wellington, from Lord of the Rings tours to wildlife tours

Wellington has long held the title of world’s coolest little capital, thanks to its compact size, coastal location, innovative spirit, and proximity to nature. Everything is so close by that you can enjoy a diverse array of experiences with next to no hassle, undoubtedly making Wellington worth visiting. From wildlife spotting to Lord of the Rings-themed tours, here are our top 10 things to do in the city. 

1. See native wildlife at Zealandia Ecosanctuary 

While New Zealand’s native wildlife is at constant risk from invasive predators, Zealandia Ecosanctuary in Karori has helped many local species of birds and other wildlife to thrive. Built around an old water reserve, the Ecosanctuary is a green oasis in the city, which makes for a soothing way to spend an afternoon - You’ll be able to wind though native bush paths, pass trickling streams, stop for refreshments at the sanctuary’s café and pick up a book at its gift shop. Private tours are also available for you to discover the grounds in more detail.

2. Explore Wellington Botanic Garden

While you’re near Zealandia, take a walk around Wellington’s 150-year-old Botanic Garden . With 25 hectares to explore, there’s a huge range of native and exotic plants and trees to marvel at. Not to mention, there’s also historic cemetery to wander through, a children’s play area, sculpture walk and a duck pond to keep you entertained. If you go at night, don’t miss spotting a glimpse of the glow worms that come alight after dark. Guided tours are on offer, or you can explore at your own pace

3. Go shopping at The Golden Mile and Old Bank Arcade

If you’re looking to spend a day browsing everything from high fashion to indie boutiques, head to Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street and Courtenay Place – collectively known as Wellington’s “Golden Mile” – which will leave you spoilt for choice. Meanwhile, the grand Old Bank Arcade is one of the city’s most famous landmarks and houses luxury brands and Kiwi fashion staples such as Ruby, Workshop, Standard Issue, Kathryn Wilson, and I Love Ugly. 

4. Sample Kiwi brews in a craft beer trail

Wellington is the home of New Zealand’s craft brewing scene, with a diverse selection of breweries and brewpubs in the city, with some even being housed in former factories and garages, so expect an interesting experience for sure. For the ultimate tasting tour, the Craft Capital Beer Trail offers a downloadable map for you to embark on your very own self-guided beer tour of dozens of taphouses, breweries and bottle stores, all stocking the coolest new brews.

5. Ride a historic cable car

Wellington has plenty of hidden historic gems, and its 121-year-old cable car is undoubtedly one. The bright red car – technically a funicular – carries you on a short, though no less diverting 628m journey from the city up a steep hillside to a lookout with spectacular panoramic views. Stick around for lunch at the Cable Top Eatery, or alternatively, board a free shuttle to the Botanic Garden, Cable Car Museum, Space Place at Carter Observatory (a fun way to introduce kids to astronomy) or head to Zealandia. There are several other stops along the way to explore, too. 

6. Get the one ring at Weta Workshop

Movie fans will get a kick out of the incredible items on display at the Weta Cave , the public outpost of the Academy Award-winning design and effects company Weta Workshop. See real sculptures, props, and costumes from films like The Hobbit and the Lord of the Rings – you’ll even be able to purchase your own One Ring to take home with you. It’s just 20 minutes from Wellington, on the scenic Miramar Peninsula. Guided tours and workshops are available, with return transfers to the city, making the trip more convenient and smooth. 

7. Discover Maori heritage at Te Papa

This museum’s name, which means “container of treasures” in Maori, is an apt one. Inside, a vast range of exhibitions trace New Zealand’s history and people, from the first Māori inhabitants to the present-day population. Don’t miss the Gallipoli: The Scale of War exhibition, which tells the story of the First World War through New Zealanders’ eyes via a series of awe-inspiring sculptures, 2.4 times human size. Children are also well-catered for at the museum, with plenty of exhibits that engage kids in interactive ways. 

8. Take a stroll along the waterfront

Join Wellingtonians at the city’s lively waterfront. The Oriental Parade walk is a 3.9km there-and-back route that is perfect for a walk or jog, offering fabulous city views. Just a stone’s throw away, the Harbourside Market is open every Sunday morning and is the oldest and most popular in the city, having existed in some form since 1920. It offers fresh produce as well as an array of crafts and an enormous range of food stalls, not to mention live music and other performances. 

9. Sate your appetite at Cuba Mall

Make sure you’re hungry when you visit Wellington’s best-known thoroughfare, Cuba Street, which packs in the whole city’s history, colour and vibrancy. It’s dubbed “the home of the high/low”, with both luxury boutiques and second-hand stores, and food options ranging from over-the-counter dumplings to sumptuous fine dining at restaurants like the renowned Logan Brown. Cuba Mall, meanwhile, is a pedestrianised part of the street and a perennially popular hangout spot. On Friday evenings, it plays host to the Wellington Night Market.  

10. Try modern Maori cuisine at Hiakai

For a taste of modern Maori cuisine, visit chef Monique Fiso’s Hiakai in Wallace Street. Made using native ingredients and traditional preparation styles, the dishes here are bursting with flavours inspired by New Zealand’s whenua (land) and moana (sea). If you’re looking to try Maori and Polynesian flavours and ingredients you can’t find anywhere else – think the titi (muttonbird), karamu berries, or mamaku tree fern, prized for its healing properties – you can dive into these unique items here.