Custom Travel Itineraries to New Zealand since 1990
Worth considering on your trip to New Zealand is spending time in the capital city of Wellington. We suggest packing a pair of comfy shoes, as this compact city is best explored by foot. Some will refer to Wellington as the New Zealand version of San Francisco. And no matter how much time you have, you will find plenty to keep you occupied and inspired. Here are a few highlights of the city to consider- great for families and multi-generational travellers as well.
The Wellington Cable Car
Wellington can be breezy but a stroll through the city is not complete without a ride on the historic Wellington Cable Car. First opened in 1902, this is the only remaining funicular railway in New Zealand. The five-minute journey from Lambton Quay to Kelburn gives you a birds-eye view of the city below, a wonderful way to get oriented in the city.
Located close to the top of the Cable Car are the Wellington Botanic Gardens, established in 1868. Take some time to explore the gardens, follow the winding paths, enjoy the breath-taking views, stop and smell the roses (there are over a 110 formal rose beds) and visit the Begonia House.
Extra: Walk down the hill through the park along the East path through quaint neighborhoods into town and past Parliament House.
Zeelandia Ecosanctuary
From the top of the Cable Car, you can catch a free shuttle to the ecosanctuary, Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne. A short drive from the city, Zealandia is a fully fenced predator-free ecosanctuary.
We recommend taking a guided tour, as the guides will be able to track down and point out some of the rarest wildlife located in the ecosanctuary. More than 140 rare little spotted kiwi live in Zealandia and on a night tour you may just spot one!
Cuba Street
Cuba Street is one of Wellington’s most colorful streets and where you will find the iconic Bucket Fountain sculpture. While in the area make sure you check out the laneways and perhaps grab a bite to eat. Wellington has an excellent coffee culture as well as cafes with great craft beers.
Hannah’s Laneway, a former shoe factory, is where you will find the Wellington Chocolate Factory, as well as a number of cafés, restaurants, bars, and food trucks.
Te Papa Museum
High on your “to do” list should be a visit to Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand’s national museum and art gallery. Te Papa Tongarewa, translates to “container of treasure,” it is not your average “national museum,” Te Papa takes a contemporary, and bicultural approach and has innovative interactive exhibits. Short on time, check out the guided tour options.
Weta Cave
Wellington is affectionately referred to as “Wellywood” due to the film production companies that have been established there. Interested in the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies, then a visit to Weta Workshop and the Weta Cave is a “must do” activity. Explore the award-winning creativity of the Weta team, learn about props, creatures, costumes, and get a behind-the-scenes look at movie making in Wellington.
If it is a sunny day, do not forget to take a stroll around the beautiful waterfront, check out the public art along the way, and may be enjoy a locally made gelato at Oriental Bay while sitting on the golden sand of the inner city beach.
At the Best of New Zealad we have experts ready to help plan and deliver a fantastic trip to New Zealand. If interested, we would appreciate your consideration! With years of experience, we can turn a “good” time in New Zealand into one to be remembered for many years. Reach out to our team today!