Visit Wellington - WellingtonNZ

Two children crouch to look at a bumblebee perched on a pink flower bed at Wellington Botanic Gardens.

Your guide to spring in Wellington

Spring’s the thing in the capital. There’s a smell of fun in the air, or maybe it’s the flowers? As the temperature warms up so does the buzz about all the events happening. Choose your own adventure from international sports to music festivals and a theatrical extravaganza.

Inside Volco, a bakery in Kelburn Wellington, a worker behind the espresso machine prepares a coffee for takeaway.

New and notable places in Wellington

Treat your taste buds at one of these new cafés, restaurants, and bars in Wellington.

Waiter serving smiling customers at an outside table of August Eatery, with other customers and green plants in the foreground.

Using Te Reo in Wellington

Hei whakanui i te wiki o te Reo Māori, anei ētahi kīanga paku hei āwhina i a koe ki te huri haere, kia whānui ake hoki tō mōhio mō Te Whanganui a Tara.

A person in a red sweater cuddles their dog sitting on a beanbag, on the grass at Glover Park, outside Rogue & Vagabond.

Paws-itively dog friendly dining

Wondering where to eat with dogs in Wellington? These dog-friendly cafés and bars are a great place to start. If you’ve got a furry friend with a taste for a puppuccino, or you’re a dog lover hoping to spot a good boy/girl, these cafés and bars are great spots for dogs and humans alike.

A young family stop along a gravel path to admire a bird flying through the lush green trees of Zealandia.

Get close to nature in Wellington

From serene walks in the bush to daredevil antics in the treetops, animal encounters to world first nature reserves — Wellington gets you up close and personal with nature.

Waiter setting a table inside Ortega Fish Shack. A large Marlin is mounted on one wall and a very large painting of a lake is on the other.

Spoilt for choice — your list of special occasion spots

Got something to celebrate? Or just feeling fancy? Wellington restaurants know how to make you feel special. Try out these top-tier places for your next big occasion — whether it’s a birthday, graduation, anniversary, or just a Wednesday.

Wide view of bar in Atura Hotel, with seating around the bar.

Stay near the stadium

Got tickets to a big game at the stadium? Make it easy for yourself and find accommodation nearby. There are some great hotels within walking distance of Sky Stadium. Set out early and enjoy a walk along the waterfront before the whistle blows.

A group of people in Cuba Mall, looking at the Bucket Fountain, an iconic kinetic sculpture.

Top 10 Wellington must-dos

There’s so much to see and do in the capital. To get you started, here are the top 10 things to do when you visit.

A family of four sitting together sharing some takeaway food outside.

Where to eat with kids

Here’s the scoop on some family-friendly spots within Wellington’s vibrant foodie scene. From cosy cafés to beach breweries, you and your children can enjoy a tasty meal together.

People dining inside Floriditas, a restaurant on Cuba Street in Te Aro Wellington.

Wellington city brunch: Start your morning sunny side up

Wellington is a city that takes its mid-morning meal seriously. Whether you’re in the mood for eggs just the way you like them, a vegan feast, or a sweet treat, you’ll find a meal to suit your cravings. Cosy up in a casual café, or get your crew together to debrief on the week. Here’s where to get brunch in Wellington.

View of Courtenay place from Dirty Little Secret rooftop bar.

Get a taste of Courtenay Place

A hotspot for all things fun and entertainment, there’s plenty to tempt your tastebuds on one of Wellington’s buzziest streets — Courtenay Place.

Three people sit at a table enjoying pizza and salad at Scopa, an Italian restaurant on Cuba Street in Te Aro, Wellington.

Daily dining deals in Wellington

No matter the day, there’s a foodie deal in the capital. From eggs for breakfast to pizza for dinner, you can have a delicious day, whatever your budget.

A server stands by a table of two explaining the restaurant's menu.

Hillside Kitchen

Find seasonal and foraged ingredients and innovation aplenty at Wellington’s leading vegetarian restaurant.

Evil Twins

Iced coffee, matcha, and trendy merchandise are all on offer at this creative city café.

Three types of coffee, in different vessels, sit on the counter in Black Coffee in Newtown. Framed pictures are blurred on the walls in the background.

Your essential guide to coffee in Wellington

The capital takes its coffee seriously. Whether you’re after a creamy flat white, a jet-fuelled long black, or something in between, Wellington has plenty of places to keep you caffeinated. These standout roasters and award-winning baristas are here to kick-start your morning.

Damascus

Damascus is serving up authentic Syrian food and a taste of home in central Wellington.

A variety of delicious-looking sandwiches on the front counter at Shelly Bay Baker, a bakery in Te Aro, Wellington.

The best thing since sliced bread — your Wellington sandwich list

Sometimes all it takes to change your day is a really good sandwich. Luckily, Wellington has you covered with a range of dedicated shops and specialist bakeries providing the goods. Focaccia, sourdough, baguettes and buns, whatever way you like it, here’s where to get two slices and fillings galore.

Five Asian-fusion dishes, a pink cocktail, dishes and utensils on a table at a restaurant.

Beyond the central city, great food awaits

The quality of Wellington’s cafés, restaurants, and bars is not confined to the inner city. There’s a raft of great options hidden away in neighbourhoods and suburbs beyond the city lights.