Tourist Attractions in Wellington

The most interesting and beautiful tourist sites in Wellington

Photos, reviews, descriptions, and links to maps

About Wellington

The capital of New Zealand is located on the slopes of mountains sloping down to the sea, along the shores of picturesque bays. The most beautiful panorama opens from Mount Victoria and the hills of Kelburn suburb, which can be reached by funicular railway. At the top there is a marvellous Botanical Garden. The exotic flora and fauna of the region can also be seen in several nature reserves and about a hundred parks in and around the city.

Among the interesting architectural structures of Wellington are the ancient St. Paul’s Church, the memorial complex in honour of polar explorer Byrd, the Beehive Parliamentary Building, the world’s largest wooden building resembling an Italian palace. The city museums acquaint with the culture and life of indigenous Maori people. Film buffs will love the excursion to the filming locations of the famous film “The Lord of the Rings”.

Top-20 Tourist Attractions in Wellington

Beehive

 4.4/5

434 reviews

The original form of the modernist structure really resembles an English straw beehive. The building has 4 underground and 10 above-ground floors, its height is 72 metres. The official opening took place in 1977. Currently, the “Beehive” is part of the parliamentary complex of buildings, it houses the country’s ministries and the Prime Minister’s office. It is considered one of the most iconic buildings in the capital, its image can be seen on the New Zealand 20-dollar banknote.

Open time

Monday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Wellington Cable Car

 4.5/5

5218 reviews

Date of foundation – 1902. Connects the capital’s waterfront with the central hilltop suburb of Kelburn. The length of the route is 612 metres. The maximum height is 120 metres. The journey time is about 5 minutes. In the 1970s, the old-fashioned cabins were replaced. Currently there are two red carriages with large windows and wooden seats. The maximum capacity of each is 100 people. A museum of the history of the cable car is open at the upper stop.

Open time

Monday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday: 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Mount Victoria

 0/5

Located to the east of the centre of the capital, it is 196 metres high. The best observation deck in the city with a 360° view. A little lower is the memorial to the American pilot R. Byrd, who made the first flight across the South Pole from the base of Novaya Pole. Byrd, who made the first flight across the South Pole from a base in New Zealand. The mountain can be climbed by several hiking trails or by bus. Benches are set up everywhere. It is always very windy at the summit, even on warm days, so it is recommended to take warm clothes.

Cuba Street

 0/5

Wellington’s most famous street. After the tram tracks were removed in 1969, it became the capital’s main pedestrian artery. Since 1995 it has been recognised as a site of historical value. Today the street is filled with boutiques, bars, cafes, art galleries. Its northern part is given to commercial organisations. It is considered to be the centre of arts, street artists, musicians, photographers demonstrate their talents here. The venue of the annual carnival.

Te Ngakau Civic Square

 4.6/5

71 reviews

Wellington’s cultural centre is centred around this square. There is a magnificent Town Hall building, where not only government meetings are held, but also concerts, charity events, etc., the city library, art gallery, national museum, M. Fowler Concert Hall. The square was created in 1991 and was called Civic Square. It was renamed Te Ngakau in 2018, which means “heart” in the Māori language.

Open time

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

 4.7/5

21767 reviews

The museum, whose name translates as “a collection of the riches of this land”, was created in the 90s with the aim of preserving New Zealand’s heritage. The thematic diversity of the expositions, spread over 6 floors, is impressive. There is an archaeological collection of fossils, a collection of marine and terrestrial fauna, a herbarium of 250 thousand dried plants. There are also exhibitions devoted to Maori life and culture, the history of the country’s exploration, and the filming of The Lord of the Rings.

Open time

Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Weta Cave

 4.6/5

3253 reviews

A fascinating museum of the company Weta Workshop, which has been creating make-up and costumes since 1987 and special effects for various films and television since 1993. The company became world famous after the release of P. Jackson’s “The Lord of the Rings”. Costumes, armour, weapons, creatures and special effects are the result of Weta Workshop’s work. Other famous films include Avatar, The Adventures of Tintin, The Hobbit, Van Helsing, I, Robot and others.

Open time

Monday: 8:15 AM – 7:15 PM
Tuesday: 8:15 AM – 7:15 PM
Wednesday: 8:15 AM – 7:15 PM
Thursday: 8:15 AM – 7:15 PM
Friday: 8:15 AM – 7:15 PM
Saturday: 8:15 AM – 7:15 PM
Sunday: 8:15 AM – 7:15 PM

City Gallery Wellington

 4.3/5

1216 reviews

It was established in 1980. Since 1993, it has been housed in an Art Deco building on the grounds of Civic Soir Park. It does not have a permanent exhibition. There are exhibitions of paintings united by one theme, as well as solo exhibitions of New Zealand and international artists. After renovation in 2009, the museum opened a new room for displaying indigenous Māori art, as well as an auditorium for lectures and workshops.

Open time

Monday: 4:00 – 7:30 PM
Tuesday: 4:00 – 7:30 PM
Wednesday: 4:00 – 7:30 PM
Thursday: 4:00 – 7:30 PM
Friday: 4:00 – 7:30 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Wellington Museum

 4.6/5

2267 reviews

It was founded in 1972 as a maritime museum. Over time, the subject matter has expanded, and today part of the expositions is devoted to maritime history and another part to the history and culture of the city and country. The thematic exhibitions are organised into multimedia galleries. They tell the story of the Maori people and the first European settlers, the Anglo-Boer War, life in Wellington 100 years ago, seafarers and their discoveries, the crash of the ferry Wahine at the entrance to the city harbour in 1968, and more.

Open time

Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Government House

 4.7/5

50 reviews

The historic two-storey building is located in the Wellington suburb of Newtown. It was built in the early part of the last century. The residence of the Governor General of the country. It occupies an area of 4200 m2. The interior is decorated with marble fireplaces, oak panels, bronze lamps, carpets, parquet floors, a collection of New Zealand art. Some of the rooms are intended for solemn official events and government receptions. The residence is open to tourists.

Open time

Pukeahu National War Memorial Park

 4.6/5

1024 reviews

It is a tall obelisk with three-dimensional sculptures, the top of which is crowned by a bronze rider. His figure with a raised arm symbolises the readiness of New Zealanders to defend their fatherland. The monument is dedicated to the soldiers who died during the two world wars of the XX century and in local military conflicts. It was erected in 1931, and in the late 40s was supplemented with lion figures and bas-reliefs on military themes. Every year on 25 April, the memorial hosts events for the Day of Remembrance.

Open time

Monday: 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

St James Theatre

 4.6/5

563 reviews

The building of the theatre is of historical value. It was erected in 1912 by the famous architect of his time G. White. “St. James” was the first theatre built of reinforced concrete on a steel frame. The interior decoration amazed with luxury – marble chips, coloured stained glass windows, floors of cypress and eucalyptus, cherubs on the ceiling. In the 90s, the building was extensively reconstructed. Today it hosts concerts, exhibitions, performances and festive events.

Open time

Old St Paul's

 4.7/5

621 reviews

One of New Zealand’s major historical sites, a prime example of neo-Gothic architecture. It was built of wood, without nails, in 1866. It is painted white on the outside. The interior is characterised by solemnity and an interesting play of light thanks to the stained glass windows. Former residence of the Bishop of the Church District of Wellington. Since 1964 the diocese moved to a new cathedral and the old one was bought by the government, restored and turned into a museum.

Open time

Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

City To Sea Bridge

 4.7/5

35 reviews

Known for its intricate wood sculptures depicting mythical creatures, whales, dolphins and birds. The bridge is also decorated with stars, different phases of the moon and other Maori symbols. It was built in 1994 to a design by sculptor P. Matchitta. In this way, the artist decided to familiarise locals and tourists with the history and cultural traditions of the Maori people. The bridge is pedestrianised and connects the central town square with the harbour.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Sky Stadium

 4.3/5

4215 reviews

Wellington’s premier world-class sports facility. It was opened in 1999. The area is 48000 m2. Designed for 34500 spectators. Located near the centre and railway station. It is used mainly for sporting events. Rugby, cricket and football matches are regularly held here, including international level matches. It is also a popular venue for concerts, festivals, exhibitions and large-scale cultural events.

Open time

Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Space Place at Carter Observatory

 4.6/5

1349 reviews

Located on the territory of the botanical garden. It was opened in 1941. In 2010 it was modernised. It has a small size, but is equipped with the most modern technology. Interactive galleries, multimedia exhibitions, a giant Thomas Cook telescope, a full-dome digital planetarium tell about planets, stars, galaxies and New Zealand’s contribution to the development of space science. Special educational programmes for schoolchildren have been developed.

Open time

Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Wellington Botanic Garden

 4.6/5

8984 reviews

Located on top of a hill, which is reached from the city centre by cable car. It was established in 1868. The territory of 25 hectares includes a rose garden, the House of Tropical Plants with the world’s largest lily pad and a collection of orchids, the House of Begonias, a rock garden, a luxurious Victorian-style greenhouse, and a Tea House. Several dozen interesting sculptures serve as additional decoration. There is a small artificial pond with ducks. There is a play area with swings for children.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Wellington Zoo

 4.5/5

5024 reviews

It was founded in 1906. It occupies a small area of 13 hectares, but all animals are kept in ideal conditions close to the wild. The pride of the zoo are representatives of endangered species, which feel perfectly well in captivity and bear offspring. Among them are red panda, Asian otter, Malay bear. In the exhibition pavilions you can admire ostriches, giraffes, lions, tigers, monkeys, reptiles and the New Zealand kiwi bird.

Open time

Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne

 4.7/5

4758 reviews

The 225 hectares of land restored New Zealand’s unique wildlife, which had been disturbed by the arrival of man. The ecosystem is isolated from the outside world. A special fence is installed along the perimeter, protecting the park’s inhabitants from hares, cats, mice, weasels and other predators. More than 40 species of birds, dozens of reptile species, hundreds of plant species and thousands of invertebrate species have been recorded. Many of these are endangered or extinct in the rest of the region.

Open time

Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Wellington

 4/5

245 reviews

The Interislander Steamship Company transports passengers and vehicles across the Cook Strait between the North and South Islands. The 92 kilometre journey from Wellington to Picton Harbour takes 3.5 hours. This time can be spent in a bar, watching films or reading the press. Or you can simply admire the scenery of the strait. Due to strong winds, currents and rocks, it is considered to be one of the most dangerous in the world, but at the same time one of the most picturesque.

Open time

Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM