things to do in wellington
Wellington, the vibrant capital of New Zealand! Here are some things to do in Wellington:
Culture and History
- Te Papa Museum: A must-visit, with interactive exhibits on New Zealand’s natural history, art, and culture.
- National Library of New Zealand: Explore the country’s history and literature at this iconic library.
- Wellington Cable Car Museum: Learn about the historic cable car system that still operates today.
- Weta Workshop: Get a behind-the-scenes look at the special effects company behind Lord of the Rings and other famous films.
Nature and Outdoors
- Wellington Botanic Garden: Stroll through the beautiful gardens, which include a rose garden, a sensory garden, and a native forest.
- Mount Victoria: Take in panoramic views of the city from the top of Mount Victoria.
- Wellington Harbour: Enjoy a scenic waterfront walk or take a harbour cruise.
- Red Rocks Scientific Reserve: Visit this protected area, home to a colony of New Zealand fur seals.
Food and Drink
- Cuba Street: Explore this lively street, lined with cafes, restaurants, and bars.
- Wellington Night Market: Every Friday and Saturday, the night market offers a range of food stalls and live music.
- Craft Beer: Wellington is known for its craft beer scene; visit breweries like Garage Project or ParrotDog.
- Coffee Culture: Wellington is a coffee lover’s paradise, with many independent cafes serving top-notch coffee.
Arts and Entertainment
- New Zealand Symphony Orchestra: Catch a performance by the country’s national orchestra.
- Wellington Arts Festival: This annual festival features music, theatre, dance, and visual arts performances.
- Circa Theatre: Enjoy a show at this intimate, independent theatre.
- City Gallery Wellington: Explore the city’s contemporary art scene at this gallery.
Adventure and Sports
- Wellington Cable Car: Take a ride on the historic cable car, which offers stunning views of the city.
- Oriental Bay Beach: Enjoy a day at the beach, with plenty of water sports and activities available.
- Makara Beach: Visit this scenic beach, popular with surfers and beachgoers alike.
- Wellington Sports Stadium: Catch a rugby or cricket match at this state-of-the-art stadium.
Shopping
- Lambton Quay: This popular shopping street offers a range of high-end and affordable stores.
- Courtenay Place: Find unique boutiques and specialty stores on this lively street.
- Wellington Markets: Every Sunday, the Wellington Markets offer a range of artisanal goods and souvenirs.
- David Jones: Visit this iconic department store, which offers a range of products and services.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Wellington. The city has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in culture, nature, food, or adventure!