Handpicked by a Wellington Local Expert, we bring you our guide to 'Must See Places For First Timers'.
For first time visitors to the capital city, there are a number of must-see attractions to check out. We've picked out the ones to add to your itinerary.
Wellington Cable Car
No trip to Wellington is complete without a ride on the famous Cable Car. It has been running since 1902, and whilst the cars themselves have changed, the route remains. Cable cars operate approximately every 10 minutes, 364 days of the year. Hop on at Lambton Quay in the heart of the CBD and within minutes you're a world away at Kelburn and close to many of Wellington's top attractions. Take t...
Wellington Botanic Garden
25 hectares of beautiful gardens, forest, plants, and interesting sculptures. Easy access via the cable car and offering some of the city's most spectacular views. Wellington Botanic Garden is undoubtedly one of the capital's natural highlights. Established in 1868, the park manages to combine perfectly manicured gardens, a Begonia House and a Victorian glasshouse, with native forest and peacef...
Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
Wellington's most iconic and celebrated institution, Te Papa Tongarewa (Maori for 'container of treasures') is New Zealand's national museum. With the prestigious appointment as the cultural figurehead of New Zealand, Te Papa strives to be, and succeeds as, a world-class tourist attraction. Te Papa's collections span five areas: History, Art, Maori, Pacific and Natural Environment. Each exhibit...
Mount Victoria Lookout
Mount Victoria, a short drive from Wellington's central business district, offers spectacular views of the capital city. From the viewpoint at the top, visitors can see the city beneath them, the Cook Strait to the south and the harbour and Hutt Valley to the north. Near the bottom of Mount Victoria lays the Basin Reserve sports ground and the National War Memorial, while its slopes were use...
Parliament Buildings
Welcome to New Zealand Parliament, the home of democracy in New Zealand, and one of the most iconic sets of buildings in Wellington. The Introduction to Parliament tour is our most popular tour, taking place multiple times throughout the day. It is a great way to get a general introduction to our parliamentary processes, the architecture and history of our buildings, and how to have...
