50 Of The Best Things To Do In Wellington In 2024

When you think of capital cities it often conjures up images of dull, bureaucratic hubs—not the kind of places likely to make it onto anyone's bucket list. But as far as capitals go, we like to think Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington is a little bit spesh. 

While the city might cop a fair bit of flack for its less-than-ideal weather, the challenging elements have forced locals to get creative, and have fuelled a buzzing drinking and dining scene, as well as plenty of quirky attractions and activities. Urban List has rounded up 50 awesome things to do that can be enjoyed rain or shine—just be sure to invest in a good raincoat and leave the umbrella at home—you’ve been warned.

Catch A Flick In A Boutique Cinema

Various locations

Wellington boasts a stellar lineup of cosy cinemas that will take your movie-going experience to the next level. Enjoy a flick with a vino in hand at Roxy Cinema, Lighthouse (Cuba, Petone and Pautahanui), The Embassy, Penthouse Cinema and Empire Cinema & Eatery.

Discover Movie Magic

Wētā Cave, 1 Weka Street, Miramar

Dubbed by some as ‘Wellywood’, Wellington is home to New Zealand’s brightest movie-making talent. Get a sneak peek behind the scenes on a Wētā Workshop Tour and see how films like The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit were brought to life on the silver screen. You can also sign up for costuming, SFX, sculpting and leatherwork workshops too.

Take A Trip Through The Galaxy

Space Place at Carter Observatory, 40 Salamanca Road, Kelburn

Learn the stories of the skies at Space Place. Explore interactive exhibits, stargaze through the famous historical telescope and travel to space with a full-dome planetarium show. Don’t forget to check out Astronomy on Tap, open late on the last Tuesday of every month for a welcome drink and first class in-flight snacks. 

Get Up Close To Nature

Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne, 53 Waiapu Road, Karori

Meet some of New Zealand’s feathered friends at Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne, a 225-hectare ecosanctuary home to regenerating native forest, and native wildlife including kākā, takahē, kiwi and tuatara. There are a range of guided walks from day to night, as well as the chance to spot the rare little spotted kiwi. 

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Jump Into Willy Wonka’s Shoes

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Image credit: Baron Hasselhoff's Craft Chocolate Emporium | Instagram

Play Welly Wonka for a day (see what we did there) and check out the capital’s chocolate scene. Sink your teeth into a Wellington Chocolate Factory masterclass with a customised chocolate bar to take home. Baron Hasslehoffs also have their famous s’more hot chocolate or head to Wonderland Chocolate for vegan and dairy-free treats. Don’t forget to check out other craft chocolate makers like Lucid Chocolatier (from over the hill in Masterton).

Make Friends With Meerkats

Wellington Zoo, 200 Daniell Street, Newtown

Book a close encounter experience the meerkats at Wellington Zoo. You can also explore the zoo at your own pace and check out the different animal talks from the expert team at the Zoo. From penguin chats to giraffe meet and greets, this is a guaranteed day of fun for the whole family. 

Support Creative Up-And-Comers 

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If you’re in the mood for quirky theatre or rib-ticklin’ improv, look no further than BATS, the local theatre known for its bold and buzzing year-round programme of theatre, dance, improv, stand-up and experimental performances. Other local spots include Gryphon Theatre, Circa Theatre and Wellington’s official home of comedy, The Opera House. Did we mention they’re all within walking distance? Choice.

Visit The House Of A Famous Writer 

Katherine Mansfield House & Garden, 25 Tinakori Road, Thorndon

Step back in time with a visit to a colonial house built in 1888, and once home to one of New Zealand’s most acclaimed writers, Katherine Mansfield. This year marks the 136th anniversary of Katherine Mansfield’s birth, and what better way to celebrate than discovering the world and writing at her childhood home.

Ride The Cable Car  

Wellington Cable Car, 280 Lambton Quay, Wellington Central

It doesn’t get any more Wellington than the bright red Cable Car. Jump on at Lambton Quay and cruise up the hill to the Botanic Gardens, where you can soak up epic views of the city. Keep an eye out for the Tunnel Light Shows. (Fun fact: On National Hobbit Day this year (with Wētā Workshop), dress up as a Hobbit and go on a free adventure on the cable car.)

Taste Wellington’s Finest Brews

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Image credit: Garage Project Aro | Instagram

Of the hoppy variety. Wellington has a cranking craft beer scene so hop around some of the greats. Check out the OG craft beer kids Garage Project at the original site where it all began in Aro Valley Cellar Door, or go for a pint at their hip Aro Street taproom across the road. You can book a tour at the Wild Workshop Taproom & Cellar door in town for their more experimental range. There’s so many good brews to choose from in this city—with Fortune Favours, Choice Bros, Heyday and Mean Doses, Double Vision Brewing and Parrotdog (and all within bussing distance, might we add). Don’t forget to also swing by Abandoned Taproom (further out in Petone or Porirua) and Kererū Cellar Door (in Upper Hutt, who have the best gluten-free beers for your gf mates). Plus did we Brewtown with Panhead, Boneface, and Te Aro Brewing Co. in there too!? Phew, a serious craft beer crawl.

Find Your Gin-spiration  

Southward Distilling Co., 35/70 Kingsford Smith Street, Rongotai

With their new cellar door and distillery now in Lyall Bay, become a gin maestro with a Blend Your Own Botanicals class while listening to the surf at your doorstep. Learn the art of gin and enjoy tastings of the Southward range, before blending your own unique drop to take home. 

See Wellington From The Sky

Wellington Helicopters Limited, Shed 6, Queens Wharf, Wellington

Soar to new heights and get a new perspective on the capital city with a scenic helicopter flight. Get a bird’s eye view of the city and harbour or head further to soak up jaw-dropping vistas of the rugged south coast and Cook Strait. They even fly to luxury lodge Wharekauhau in Palliser Bay. 

Become An Axe-pert

Sweet Axe Throwing Co., 60 Cambridge Terrace, Te Aro | Sweet Axe at Brewtown, Upper Hutt, 27 Blenheim Street, Maidstone, Upper Hutt

There’s no better way to blow off some steam than hurtling axes at a wall. Round up some mates and huck axes at Sweet Axe. In your two-hour session, you’ll be coached on the proper technique before getting down to business in a tournament to find the axe-throwing champ. Add on a crate of smashables and enjoy a bit of therapeutic Smash Room too while you’re there (they’re based in Brewtown also).

Frolic With Farmyard Friends

Staglands Wildlife Reserve & Café, 2362 Akatarawa Road, Akatarawa Valley, Upper Hutt

For a wholesome day out, head to Staglands Wildlife Reserve in Akatarawa Valley (less than an hour’s drive form Welly) and get warm fuzzies from the resident animals. Explore this idyllic reserve that is home to all kinds of furry, finned and feathered friends, from kune kune pigs to Flemish rabbits, as well as cheeky kea and frolicking deer. You can even help feed the animals at the free lunchtime feed tour—and if you’re lucky, bottle feed a lamb or calf too. Our hearts are full.

Do Brunch

Various Locations

Image credit: Floriditas | Vicki Young

Weekends are made for sleep-ins and brunching. Start your day right (preferably after 11) with a leisurely meal at one of Wellington’s best cafes. For city-side brunching, we love Floriditas for their classic scram. For brunch with a view, you can’t beat the Victory Breakfast at Maranui or a classic eggs benny at Spruce Goose seaside. 

Catch A Wave

Wellington Surf Lessons, 101 Lyall Parade, Lyall Bay

It might not be as tropical as Hawaii, but Lyall Bay is a top beginners spot to get amongst the surf. Join a group class with Wellington Surf Lessons and master the waves quicker than you can say “hang ten.” 

Indulge In A Staycation

Various locations

There's nothing like exploring our capital city from a base right in town. From luxurious art deco inspired gems, cozy inner city stay above a wine bar, to even a lighthouse —here are the best hotels in Wellington that'll take your day trip to luxe new heights.

Eat The City

Various locations

When it comes to food, Wellington takes the cake. Every year, Wellington is home to the largest culinary festival in the Southern Hemisphere—Visa’s Wellington on A Plate. There’s no shortage of top-notch eateries to sink your teeth into, so treat your tastebuds to a foodie crawl around some of the city’s best haunts.

Bust Moves Like Beyonce

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Whether you’ve got two left feet or fancy yourself a bit of a twinkle toes, you’ll get a buzz out of Shut Up & Dance. These epic dance/fitness classes are guaranteed to get you sweating and smiling, in equal measure. For those who are after something a bit more old school, check out Full Swing for a bit of Lindy Hop, jazz and 80s dance routines. For the Great Dance Experience (learning African American cultural dances in only four short and sweet weeks), sign up to Sugarfoot Stomp in Newtown.   

Sip The Local Drop

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Image credit: Huntress | Instagram

Venture over the hill to the quaint country village of Martinborough, grab yourself a snazzy bike, and pedal from vineyard to vineyard, stopping in for tastings of the local vino. Favourites include Poppies, Moy Hall, Cambridge Road and Colombo. We love local winemakers from this region too, like the incredible Jannine Richards from Huntress Wines.

Breakfast Like Royalty 

Various locations

Start your day the right way with a sumptuous breakfast from one of the best spots in Wellington. The capital loves a good brekky, whether it’s poached eggs or a lush silky scram, here are just a few of our faves. Don’t forget your flat white fix too. 

Get Zen With Yoga In A Tree House

Pause Yoga Studio, 28 Moana Road, Days Bay, Lower Hutt 

What better place to perfect your tree pose than a yoga studio nestled amongst lush greenery? Book a class at Pause Yoga in the seaside suburb of Eastbourne and soak in the tranquil vibes at this bushy sanctuary.

Master The Macaron

Sugar Flour, 7a Stewart Drive, Newlands

Fancy trying your hand at crafting delicate French treats? Sugar Flour Pastry School offers classes where you can learn to make fabulous petit gateaux. Your new pastry skills are sure to impress your pals at your next dinner party.

Food And Film Pairing

The Roxy Cinema, 5 Park Road, Miramar

Head along to the chic Roxy Cinema in Miramar for one of their Feast Your Eyes screenings. Catch a classic flick and tuck into a themed dessert and cocktail (or mocktail). They’ve even got film-themed dinners created by their restaurant, Coco at the Roxy. 

Embrace The Grind

Various locations 

Image credit: Customs | Instagram

Wellington’s favourite pastime is drinking copious cups of coffee and you don’t have to stumble far to find a decent spot for a flat white. Get your naughty milk brew at Customs (condensed milk with cold brew) or the best deal for a flattie at Raglan Roast’s Abel Smith Street (one of Welly’s best kept secrets). Here are a few more of our favourite places to get your fix.

Get Amongst The Action At Brewtown 

Brewtown Upper Hutt, 27 Blenheim Street, Maidstone, Upper Hutt 

The ultimate amusement park for adults, Brewtown combines craft beer with high-octane activities. Race your mates on the go-kart track, strike it lucky on the bowling lanes, or give axe throwing a go, before cooling off with a few crafty brews at one of the on-site breweries.

Lap Up The Inside Word On Our National Museum  

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, 55 Cable Street, Te Aro | Wellington Museum, 3 Jervois Quay, Wellington Central

Learn some lesser-known facts about our country on an Introducing Te Papa Tour. Let one of Te Papa’s experienced guides take you on a journey through New Zealand’s rich history, cultures, wildlife, and landscapes. While you’re there, head down the road to check out Wellington Museum in the historical Bond Store (an old cargo warehouse).

Become Besties With An Art Gallery

Te Ngākau Civic Square, and various locations around Wellington

If you’re a bit of a contemporary art buff, become a friend of City Gallery Wellington Te Whare Toi. This is a friendship with plenty of benefits, including discounted entry to exhibitions, sneak peeks and invitations to special events, as well as 10% off merch at the gallery shop. Make a day of it and check out the other galleries across the city and beyond with Wellington’s Art Map, showing all the latest exhibitions. 

Note: The gallery has temporarily moved due to construction at Te Ngākau Square (Civic Square). You can find the various locations here.

Play A Round of Spooktacular Mini Putt

The Witching Hour Mini-Putt (Wellington City), 7 Forresters Lane, Te Aro | The Witching Hour Mini Putt and Bar Brewtown, Brewtown, Unit 30/23 Blenheim Street, Maidstone, Upper Hutt

Round up your fave guys and ghouls for an after-dark, adults-only round of mini golf at The Witching Hour. Down some brews to keep up your courage as you tackle this spooky-themed course (available in Wellington and Brewtown, Upper Hutt).

Visit An Historic Quarantine Island

Te Whanganui-a-Tara/ Wellington Harbour

Image credit: Mātiu/Somes Island | Vicki Young

Jump on the East By West Ferry and sail across the harbour to Matiu-Somes Island for a fab day trip. Explore this peaceful little island and discover its rich history, and enjoy the abundant wildlife that calls this predator-free sanctuary home. Note that the island is currently closed for rebuilding of the wharf and expected to reopen in late November this year.

E-Bike An Historic Rail Trail

Wildfinder Pencarrow, 519 Muritai Road, Eastbourne, Lower Hutt

Discover the rich history of the Remutaka Ranges by cycling from Kaitoke to Cross Creek, passing through native bush, over historic bridges, and through eerie tunnels on the picturesque Remutaka Cycle Trail. Cycle Remutaka can sort you out with a day trip package which includes bike hire, lunch and snacks, maps, and shuttles to and from the trail.

Stay On An Off-Shore Bird Sanctuary  

Kapiti Island Nature Tours, 29 Marine Parade, Paraparaumu Beach

Fall asleep to the sounds of kiwi calling from the comfort of your luxury tent on Kāpiti Island. The overnight tour package includes ferry transfers, meals and accommodation, and gives you two full days to explore the wild beauty of this predator-free nature reserve, where you can see some of New Zealand’s most beautiful and at-risk bird species.

Be Dazzled By Ballerinas

St. James Theatre, 87/77 Courtenay Place, Te Aro 

Check out the upcoming show season by the Royal New Zealand Ballet, and spend a night with New Zealand’s finest ballet dancers as they plié and pirouette across the stage at the beautifully restored St. James Theatre (established in 1912 and the official home to the Royal New Zealand Ballet). 

Shop Local At The Markets

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There’s no better weekend ritual than heading to one of the capital’s bustling markets to stock up on fresh veg, locally made artisan goodies, and food truck fare. Make a beeline for these markets next weekend. 

Go For A Hoon On A Crocbike  

The Enormous Crocodile & Shake Bar, 5/22 Herd Street, Te Aro

Image credit: Enormous Crocodile + Shake I Instagram

These quirky green contraptions have got to be the most unique way to explore Wellington’s waterfront. Hire a three or six-seater bike with your mates and go for a spin around the scenic harbour. Afterwards, treat yourself to an epic Crocshake (IYKYK).                                                                                                

Chase An Adrenaline Rush

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If you like things fast and furious (you do), grab your pals for an afternoon at Boomrock. This stunning cliff-top site offers clay bird shooting, and extreme golf, as well as the chance to put the pedal to the metal in a Jaguar and hoon around an exhilarating racetrack. Head to Adrenalin Forest in Porirua and test your mental and physical strength as you navigate your way through the suspended boardwalks and zipline from tree to tree. 

Get Out And A-Boat 

Wellington Ocean Sports, 115 Oriental Parade, Oriental Bay

It may be a local pastime to niggle about the wind in Wellington, but one thing it is good for is sailing. Embrace the infamous breeze and learn to sail with Wellington Ocean Sports. Whether you’re a complete novice or have a bit of experience under your belt, you’ll find a course to suit.

Nab Some New Threads 

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Give your wardrobe a Wellington upgrade with new garments from uber-talented local designers. Head to Ghuznee Street to shop up a storm at twenty-seven names and Mandatory, then swing by College Street to pick up some pieces at Kowtow. Pop further down the road to Goodness, KAUKAU, and Sully’s who are independent stockists of NZ and international labels. For the latest in streetwear labels, head into the city and check out Good as Gold, who have been in the know since 2004.

Pamper Yourself

East Day Spa, 1 Thorndon Quay, Pipitea | Spring Spa, 108 Tory Street, Te Aro

Indulge in a little self-care and make a date with the very lush East Day Spa. This inner-city sanctuary blends Eastern remedies with European skincare, so whether you get a soothing massage or a nourishing sugar scrub, you will leave feeling all kinds of blissed out. Their sister brand, Spring Spa is tucked away in the city but their signature Spring massage will make you feel far from the bustle of Tory Street, with no knot left untangled. 

Get The Scoop

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Image credit: Zelati Dessert Cafe | Website

No matter the weather, Wellingtonians have a soft spot for frozen treats. We’re spoilt for choice in the capital, from the classic Italian gelato at Kaffee Eis (our pick is lemon) to the quirky flavours at local gelateria Gelissimo (check out their latest lime and jalapeño, and cereal milk flavours). Local dessert shop Zelati has tastebud-tantalising gelato flavours like matcha strawberry, ube and earl grey tea—you can even have your scoop on a hot waffle, cookie sandwich, or Levant Sweets baklava. We can’t forget the famous pink Duck Island, where limited edition flavours like Feijoa Jam Doughnut were made possible thanks to local fight-against-food-waste heroes Wonky Box.  

Stock Up On Gourmet Groceries

Moore Wilson’s, Corner of Tory Street and, College Street, Te Aro

Going to Moore Wilson’s on a Saturday is one of the most Wellington things you can do. Locals head there in droves to get their fix of fine cheeses, deli meats, freshly squeezed OJ (a Moore Wilson’s special), local baguettes and fancy treats. Take a breather from all the buzz and find a perch at the in-store cafe, to refuel with a coffee from their selection of coffee beans. If you’re feeling extra peckish, pop outside and check out the rotating pods of pop-up restaurants (don’t skip the souvlaki and baklava from the Greek Food Truck).

Browse Classic Cars

Southward Car Museum, Otaihanga Road, Otaihanga, Paraparaumu | Cars Inc (Wellington Car Museum), 6 George Daniels Drive, Trentham, Upper Hutt

If you’ve got a petrol head in your life, a trip to Southward Car Museum will get their engines revving. This museum on the Kapiti Coast is home to more than 400 cars, bikes and other vehicles, from all eras of motoring. Even if you’re not a car person, there’s something charming about seeing so many polished, historic cars all neatly lined up. There’s also a special mention to the Cars Inc. (Wellington Car Museum and Cafe) in Upper Hutt, a family-owned passion project showing over 60 cars.

Shop Sustainably

Various locations

If you’re after some pre-loved threads, hotfoot it to Cuba Street where you’ll be spoiled for choice. Ziggurat, Hunters and Collectors, and Paperbag Princess are all top spots to score vintage pieces and modern garments, ready for you to give them a new home. Turn the corner and you’re guaranteed to find something at Recycle Boutique and Honour too.  

Raise Your Pinky

Various locations

There’s nothing more delightful than spending an afternoon scoffing fancy cakes and tiny sandwiches. Treat yourself to high tea at Hippopotamus, The Lobby Lounge at the InterContinental, Lola Rouge (at the ground floor Naumi Hotel), Origami, or bottomless tea at Dilmah’s t-lounge.

Go On A Cocktail Crawl

Various locations

Image credit: Dee's Place | Instagram

Shaken, stirred, fruity or fresh, whatever your cocktail preference, Wellington delivers the goods. Take a wander in the city and you’ll stumble on an ace cocktail bar in no time. From negroni on tap at The Ram, to getting a custom drink made by one of the slick speakeasy bartenders at Hawthorn Lounge. Start at Elixir for their golden hour cocktail specials from 4-6pm and stop by Crumpet to try their new menu with Crumpet’s favourite biscuits inspiring their cocktails (think Scotch Fingers and Jaffa Cakes). Don't forget an amaretto sour at Puffin and then head on over to Dee’s Place for a nightcap to finish—freshly squeezed apple juice and whisky, anyone?

Glamp Beside A River  

239 Ruakokoputuna Road, Ruakōkoputuna

If camping makes you think of mosquitos and long drops, then opt for the more glamorous option with a stay at Rivers Edge - Ruru Tent. Set in a picturesque valley in the Wairarapa, this luxury tent/cabin hybrid lets you relax in nature with plenty of cosy comforts.

Test Your Puzzling Skills

Basement of Aviation House, 12 Johnston St, Wellington Central and Ground Floor of 195 Victoria St, Te Aro 

Fancy yourself a super sleuth? Take the gang along to Escape Mate and put your detective skills to the test to free yourselves from the locked room. Check out our fave escape rooms in Wellington, if you dare.

Make your own cheese 

Wellington High School, 249 Taranaki Street, Mount Cook (inside Massey Wellington campus)

Alexis Murti is the cheese whisperer. Join in on one of her cheese-making classes held in Wellington High School on weeknights or weekends. Check out the full de-brie(f) here.

• Best Walks In Wellington
• Top restaurants In The Capital
• The Best Markets Across Pōneke

Main image credit: Ghuznee Bowie Mural | Camilla Rutherford 

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