Suggested Itineraries - Family Fun

Wellington is a city that is children-friendly, with many things a family can do together. 

 
Day 1

  • Start the day with a visit to Te Papa. While the adults explore this bold and innovative museum, the kids can have a boisterous time at the Discovery Centres and StoryPlace.
  • Lunch – check out some of Wellington’s favourite cafés especially Caffe L’Affare which is children-friendly with a cute wee play area for the littlies.
  • Then take a drive to the South Coast where you can spot New Zealand fur seals with Seal Coast Safari. It is an exciting 4WD adventure that the family can enjoy together.
  • A great thing to do in the evening is a visit to the Karori Sanctuary for a Sanctuary by Night Tour, where you can experience the dusk chorus, see native birds and try your luck spotting the little spotted kiwi.
  • For dinner, places like The Flying Burrito Brothers, Lone Star, Strawberry Fare, One Red Dog, Zing Café, Monsoon Poon and Finc are especially great with families.


Day 2 

  • Start the morning with a visit to the Wellington Zoo. Book ahead if you wish to have a Close Encounter with the lovable red pandas, big cats and giraffes. 

OR 

  • If you prefer a more natural experience, you should make a trip tp Upper Hutt, to Staglands Wildlife Reserve in the Akatarawara Valley. Children are encouraged to interact with nature through a farm setting. There is also a café on site for lunch. 
  • You may also want to check out Lindale Tourist and Agricultural Centre on the Kapiti Coast. It has a myriad of things to see and do, with farm tours, a playground, speciality shopping and some of the best cheese and ice-cream in the region!


If time permits, be sure to check out: 

  • Wellington’s beautiful waterfront. In the weekends, The Enormous Crocodile Company hires out 2 and 4-seater covered bicycles. You can also treat the family to some yummy gelato from Kaffee Eis. 
  • Waitangi Park is a new addition to Wellington’s waterfront landscape and has a fantastic modern playground as well as a skateboard park for the older kids. 
  • Capital E is another great place for kids. It is a children’s events centre and focuses on the use of multi-media. 
  • And remember to check out our events calendar to see what else is on while you are here.