Our most recommended things to do in Wellington

Wellington: Wētā Workshop Experience and Guided Tour

1. Wellington: Wētā Workshop Experience and Guided Tour

Visit Wellington's Wētā Workshop and step into a world of magical creativity. Learn about how special effects and props and designed and made for film and TV on a guided tour of the Wētā Cave. Meet your guide at the Wētā Cave store to begin your journey through the world of Wētā Workshop, one of the film industry’s premier special effects companies, located in the heart of Wellington’s Miramar peninsula. From The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit to Avatar and District 9, learn about props, costumes, and creatures were created for your favorite films. Check out cool stuff from the creative departments and catch an artist at work on the tour stage.

Wellington: Return Cable Car Ticket

2. Wellington: Return Cable Car Ticket

Follow the Cable Car signpost around Lambton Quay to find the hidden Cable Car Lane in the heart of the city centre.  Wellington's iconic Cable Car travels through three historic tunnels and over three bridges. There are three intermediate stations; the residential areas of Clifton, Talavera and Salamanca. Victoria University of Wellington and Kelburn Park Fountain can be accessed from the Salamanca Station. Enjoy the panoramic views of Wellington city and the harbor from the top of the Cable Car. To get back down into the city, there are several walks through the hillsides of the Botanic Garden, including a beautiful 40-minute stroll back down to the city centre via the historic Bolton Street Cemetery and the Beehive. Or if you prefer an easier route back down, choose the return journey option. This allows you plenty of time to enjoy the views and explore the surrounding attractions at the summit before heading back.

Wellington and Picton: Interislander Ferry

3. Wellington and Picton: Interislander Ferry

For over 6o years, Interislander has been sharing the stunning scenery of Wellington Harbour and the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds with over 800,000 passengers every year. The voyage between the North and South Islands of Aotearoa New Zealand, takes just over three hours and has been described as one of the most beautiful ferry journeys in the world and is a ‘must do’ experience for everyone exploring our stunning country. Once onboard enjoy a meal, drink in our bar, stroll the decks, watch a movie or relax in our Premium Lounge. Our three spacious and comfortable Interislander ferries - Kaitaki, Aratere and Kaiarahi - cross the Cook Strait at regular times, 7 days a week, all year round.

Zealandia by Day Tour

4. Zealandia by Day Tour

Discover New Zealand’s native wildlife on an immersive 2-hour guided walking tour at Zealandia Ecosanctuary. Located 10-minutes from Wellington CBD, the fully-fenced, predator-free ecosanctuary is home to some of the world’s most extraordinary and vulnerable animals.  Zealandia can be easily reached by car, free shuttle, or cable car from Wellington CBD. Check in at the vistor center ticket desk where you will meet your guide. Begin with introduction in the ecosanctuary’s exhibition. You will complete a short bio-security bag check before you can enter the sanctuary. This is to prevent any predators from entering the sanctuary with you. Then, venture out into the sanctuary to discovery the riches of our native flora and fauna at its very best.  Make the most of your visit with your expert guide, who will share with you the history, sights and sounds of the forest and its secrets. Witness the highly intelligent kākā (bush parrot), kakariki, tūī and bellbirds at feeding stations positioned along the sanctuary’s walkways. After 2 hours exploring the vast parklands, you will return to the visitor center. Relax after your tour with a coffee or meal at Cafe Rata. 

New Zealand: eSIM Mobile Data Plan

5. New Zealand: eSIM Mobile Data Plan

Make your trip to New Zealand hassle-free with a convenient eSIM data package. Stay connected on your travels with high-speed coverage in New Zealand. Purchase and install your eSIM anytime and anywhere. Choose from a variety of data packages, validity options, and coverage in additional countries. Simply scan the eSIM QR code to access all your essential apps on your trip. Avoid the trouble of managing multiple SIMs with this zero-waste solution. Get one eSIM per device and, if needed, top-up by simply buying and activating additional eSIM plans as you go. Once activated, your coverage will begin immediately according to your selected duration. All iPhone model launched beyond iPhone XS can support eSIM. For Android, if you are unsure, please check with the guideline photo for eligibility. If you can not connect to the internet after install this eSIM, please follow the Self Help Troubleshooting Guide in your GYG voucher. APN (Access Point Name): 3gnet Local operator info: New Zealand: 2Degrees Australia: Optus

Wellington: Guided Sightseeing Tour by Electric Bike

6. Wellington: Guided Sightseeing Tour by Electric Bike

Get to know Wellington like a local on this electric bike tour. Your guide will take you off the beaten path and show you the best places to snack and shop. Glide along the beach and enjoy panoramic views from a lookout point. Meet your guide at Queens Wharf in Central Wellington for a morning departure. After listening to the safety briefing, learn how to operate your electric bike and enjoy time practicing in a safe area before heading out. Once you’re feeling comfortable, saddle up for a fun bike tour of Wellington, and follow your guide along the Wellington Waterfront. Glide along the seafront, passing the lively port and harbor, and the beaches of Oriental Bay. Continue along the Miramar Peninsula and leave the bustle of the city behind as you cycle along the scenic coast. Pause along the way at a local café, where you’ll have the chance to enjoy a complimentary tea or coffee, and purchase sandwiches and cakes at your own expense. Afterward, loop back towards the city. Finally, climb up to the lookout point for an unforgettable view over Wellington, the Miramar Peninsula, and the ocean. Your tour ends in the early afternoon back in central Wellington.

Museum of NZ Te Papa Tongarewa: Gallipoli Early Entry Ticket

7. Museum of NZ Te Papa Tongarewa: Gallipoli Early Entry Ticket

Avoid the crowds and enter the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa before it opens to the public at 10:00 AM, and access the "Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War" exhibition to learn more about one of the major campaigns of World War I. Get a short introduction from a knowledgeable guide, and then explore at your own pace. Combining the world of museums with the world-class creative artistry of Weta Workshop, the ground-breaking exhibition tells the story through the eyes and words of eight ordinary New Zealanders who found themselves in extraordinary circumstances.  Learn all about the giant sculptures that took a staggering 24,000 hours to create. Encounter 3D maps and projections, miniatures, models, dioramas, and a range of interactive experiences that will bring New Zealand's Gallipoli story to life. Then, use your entry ticket to explore the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa's vast collections at leisure.

Martinborough Winery Tour

8. Martinborough Winery Tour

Enjoy a 5-hour guided tour of the Martinborough wine region in the Wairarapa starting with a spectacular drive over the stunning Remutaka Ranges. Stop at the Remutaka Summit for amazing views before heading down into the Wairarapa.  Visit three of the Martinborough regions' best wineries and enjoy their Cellar Door experiences as you sample the world-class products available. Specific wineries are available by request. Transportation is available. Guests may share a vehicle with others. No exclusivity guaranteed.

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa Guided Tour

9. Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa Guided Tour

This introductory 1-hour guided tour is the perfect way to gain an overview of Te Papa’s highlights, Maori treasures, and New Zealand history. It is ideal if you have limited time or would like an introduction for an extended visit!  In central Wellington, you're rarely more than a 20-minute walk away from The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, a cultural history museum located on the waterfront. Join a tour in either English or Mandarin led by a friendly, knowledgeable guide to make the most of your visit. The guides are highly trained, with a knack for bringing the stories of New Zealand's places and people to life. Tours available in English or Mandarin.  Learn about Maori history, traditions, and art. View photography and natural science displays, come face-to-face with the largest and only colossal squid on display in the world. Enjoy high-tech interactive exhibits, art and design galleries, and the living, growing exhibition of Bush City. After the tour, use your entry ticket to explore the museum further at your own pace. There is plenty to see and you are welcome to stay as long as you like. Rest and recharge at one of the onsite cafes and browse for a souvenir at the gift stores.

Zealandia Twilight Ecosanctuary Tour

10. Zealandia Twilight Ecosanctuary Tour

Experience Zealandia as it transforms from daylight to twilight during this special guided experience. The fully-fenced, urban eco-sanctuary is located 10-minutes from Wellington central business district.   Begin your tour with the highlights of Zealandia's interactive exhibition. Your guide will then lead you through the sanctuary valley. See birds returning to the sanctuary to settle into their nests and marvel at the sight of the evening sky and hear the changing sounds of birds from day to night.  Encounter unique species such as wētā, takahē, tuatara and more. You may even experience the first sounds of the nocturnal birds, such as kiwi and ruru (morepork) as they wake.

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What are the best day trips and excursions from Wellington?

The best day trips and excursions from Wellington are:

Martinborough

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What people are saying about Wellington

Overall rating

4.8 / 5

based on 607 reviews

Dylan was prepared to guide just two of us along the waterfront despite all others canceling their bookings, the pouring rain, and the gusty winds. We got soaked - but it was the best thing we did in Wellington in the four days we were there. We had a fabulous time. Dylan was awesome, funny, knowledgeable and careful to make sure we were having a great time. I can't speak highly enough about these bike tours... great thing to do, and very friendly folk.

We were picked up on time by Steve and the drive was broken up with some stops at points of interest. We loved Margrain Vinyard and enjoyed the tasting and information. Moy Hall was fantastic for lunch and I was glad that we could get in to Palliser Estate.

Seniors friendly. Comfortable and easy to navigate. Great cafe. One very friendly employee. Greets everybody well

The tour guide was very knowledgeable about the Martinborough area and all the local wineries

Excellent tour. Ryan was super helpful and even shared his jacket w me .