What to do in Greater Wellington

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Greater Wellington

Types of activities

Where to stay

Greater Wellington travel guide

Botanic Gardens which includes a garden and hiking or walking

Top places to visit

1. Te Papa

With six floors packed with an array of exhibitions and interactive installations, visitors to the Te Papa Tongarewa (Museum of New Zealand) can explore the history and culture of New Zealand and its rich biodiversity.

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2. Cuba Street Mall

Cuba Street Mall is one of Wellington’s trendiest areas. Its historic buildings, funky shops, café culture and eclectic mix of residents make it a magnet for visitors and locals alike.

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Cuba Street Mall which includes café lifestyle and outdoor eating as well as a large group of people

3. Courtenay Place

It is said that Wellington has more bars and restaurants per capita than New York City. “The Windy City” is renowned for its appreciation of fine dining, excellent cheap eats, specialty coffee, superb wine and craft beer. Courtenay Place is where you will find the heart of Wellington’s culinary culture. It is also the entertainment hub with bars, clubs, theatres and cinemas.

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Courtenay Place featuring interior views and a bar as well as a small group of people

4. TSB Bank Arena

Visit TSB Bank Arena for international art shows, sports events and expositions. The arena is one of Wellington’s most versatile spaces, making it perfect for large-scale music performances. Check the TSB Bank Arena calendar for upcoming events or admire the grand structure, located on the scenic Wellington Waterfront.

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TSB Arena which includes modern architecture

5. Michael Fowler Centre

Michael Fowler Centre is a convention centre and concert hall in Wellington’s cultural precinct. The centre, home of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, hosts international opera, theatre, music events and conferences. Attend a classical music performance or visit the centre to admire its striking architecture.

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Michael Fowler Centre featuring modern architecture, a bay or harbour and night scenes

What to do in Greater Wellington

Discover the most popular places to visit in Greater Wellington

Te Papa

Get hands on as you learn about the heritage of these islands at New Zealand's free national museum.

Wellington showing interior views and kayaking or canoeing

Wellington Central Business District

Wellington Central Business District is just one of the places to see in Wellington, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Experience the fascinating museums and acclaimed art galleries in this walkable area.

Cuba Street Mall

Enjoy artisan coffees, sample specialty foods, browse through vintage shops or hunt for retro bargains in Wellington's bohemian heart.

Courtenay Place

Shop, wine and dine in this culinary hot spot on one of Wellington's most fashionable streets.

TSB Bank Arena

Located on Wellington’s picturesque waterfront, this multipurpose venue hosts many events, including concerts, trade shows, art exhibitions and more.

Michael Fowler Centre

Wellington’s main stage for conferences and indoor events features award-winning architecture and a year-round calendar of music and arts events.

Lambton Quay

During your visit to Wellington, you can do some window-shopping at Lambton Quay. Stroll along this family-friendly area's waterfront or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Waikanae Beach

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Waikanae Beach during your travels in Waikanae? Amble around the area's riverfront or experience its entertainment choices.

Weta Workshop which includes interior views and a statue or sculpture

The Weta Cave

Learn the special effects secrets behind films such as The Lord of the Rings and Avatar with a tour through this Academy Award-winning studio.

Explore areas of Greater Wellington

Wellington CBD

If you're spending some time in Wellington CBD, Wellington Cable Car and Museum of Wellington City and Sea are top sights worth seeing.

Te Aro

4.5/5(1,649 area reviews)

Te Aro is known for its popular shops, and with sights like St James Theatre and Cuba Street Mall, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Wellington.

Wellington showing a city, a bridge and a sunset

Wellington Waterfront

The abundant dining options and interesting museums are top of the list for many visitors to Wellington Waterfront. A stop by Te Papa or TSB Bank Arena might round out your trip.

Petone

4/5(247 area reviews)

Seaside views, cafes and waterfront views highlight some of the notable features of Petone. Make a stop by Petone Foreshore while you're exploring.

Raumati Beach

While visiting Raumati Beach, you might make a stop by sights like Paraparaumu Beach and Raumati Beach.

Mount Victoria

If you're spending some time in Mount Victoria, Mount Victoria Lookout and Oriental Parade are top sights worth seeing.

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