The 14 BEST things to do in Wellington, New Zealand

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about best things to do in Wellington, New Zealand!

Welcome to the capital of New Zealand, where the coffee is strong and the wind is even stronger! Wellington is a quirky and vibrant city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or a culture vulture, you’ll find plenty of ways to keep yourself entertained in this picturesque corner of the world.

Atmosphere / Vibes

Stack of blue jeans arranged by color in Wellington, New Zealand.
Photo by Karolina Grabowska
Wellington is known for its laid-back and creative atmosphere. The city is home to a thriving arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and music venues scattered throughout the downtown area. There’s always something going on, from festivals and markets to live music and theater performances. But it’s not all about the arts – Wellington also has a thriving food and drink culture. The city is home to some of the best coffee and craft beer in the country, as well as a host of world-class restaurants and food trucks.

Weather throughout the year

Brown and Black House Under Blue Sky during Night Time in Wellington, New Zealand.
Photo by Ken Cheung
Wellington is known for its unpredictable weather, with strong winds and occasional rain showers throughout the year. But don’t let that deter you – the city is just as beautiful on a cloudy day as it is on a sunny one. In fact, many locals will tell you that the grey skies and misty rain add to the city’s charm. Summer is the warmest and driest season in Wellington, with temperatures hovering around 20°C (68°F). Fall and spring bring cooler temperatures and more frequent rain showers, while winter is the coolest and wettest season, with temperatures ranging from 10-15°C (50-59°F).

Why Wellington, New Zealand is the best place to be

Wellington Cable Car in Wellington, New Zealand  in Wellington, New Zealand.
Photo by Nicholas Ang
There are so many reasons to fall in love with Wellington! Here are just a few:
  • The stunning natural beauty – Wellington is surrounded by mountains, forests, and the sparkling waters of the Pacific Ocean.
  • The rich culture and history – the city is home to a diverse population, with strong Maori and European influences.
  • The amazing outdoor activities – from hiking and biking to kayaking and sailing, there’s no shortage of ways to explore the great outdoors in Wellington.
  • The delicious food and drink – from coffee and craft beer to seafood and farm-to-table fare, Wellington has something for every palate.
  • The welcoming and friendly locals – Wellingtonians are known for their laid-back and welcoming nature, and you’ll feel right at home in this charming city.

Cost of Travel

Woods Covered With Snow in Wellington, New Zealand.
Photo by Mikhail Nilov
Wellington is a relatively affordable destination, with a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. You can find everything from budget hostels and Airbnb rentals to luxury hotels and bed and breakfasts. The cost of food and drink in Wellington is also reasonable, with a variety of options to suit different budgets. You can find everything from cheap and cheerful street food to fine dining restaurants. Transportation costs in Wellington are also reasonable, with a comprehensive bus network and a variety of rental car options. The city is also relatively small, so you can easily explore on foot or by bike.

Top 14 best things to do in Wellington, New Zealand

Empty photo frame on desk decorated with green plants in Wellington, New Zealand.
Photo by Ann poan
Ready to start exploring? Here are the 14 best things to do in Wellington:
  1. Climb Mount Victoria for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area.
  2. Visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa to learn about the country’s history and culture.
  3. Take a stroll through the beautiful botanic gardens, and visit the Lady Norwood Rose Garden for a fragrant treat.
  4. Sample some of the city’s best coffee at one of the many artisanal cafes.
  5. Experience Maori culture at the Museum of Wellington City & Sea, which showcases the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
  6. Take a walk along the waterfront and visit the Wellington Cable Car Museum.
  7. Visit the Old St. Paul’s Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture.
  8. Explore the city’s vibrant arts scene at galleries like the City Gallery Wellington and the New Zealand Portrait Gallery.
  9. Take a trip to the Zealandia sanctuary to see native birds and other wildlife up close.
  10. Go on a foodie tour to sample some of the city’s best restaurants and food trucks.
  11. Take a day trip to the nearby Marlborough region to visit the wineries and taste some of the country’s best wines.
  12. Hike or bike the Rimutaka Hill Road for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
  13. Visit the Wellington Zoo to see a variety of exotic and native animals.
  14. Experience the city’s nightlife at one of the many bars, clubs, and music venues.

Conclusion

The Beehive Building in Wellington, New Zealand
Photo by 飞 谢
Wellington is a vibrant and lively city with something for everyone. Whether you’re into nature, culture, food, or just having a good time, you’ll find plenty of ways to keep yourself entertained in this beautiful corner of the world. So pack your bags and head to Wellington – you won’t be disappointed!


Have you thought about staying in Wellington for a little longer and working remotely? Here is another blog post about becoming a Digital Nomad in Wellington

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in New Zealand, such as Dunedin, Auckland or Tauranga.