Where to find the most stunning views in Wellington
A city nestled between harbour and hills, you’re never far from a stunning view in Wellington. Here are some of the best places to take in a classic Wellington view.
Mount Victoria Lookout
Lookout Road, Hataitai, Wellington
The best way to get your bearings of the city is by checking out the views from the top of Mount Victoria, or Mt Vic, as the locals call it. Rising 196m above the city, the Mount Victoria Lookout has stunning panoramic views of Wellington city, harbour and hills and is part of the Southern Walkway track. You can drive to the top of Mt Vic or walk there via one of the many trails in the Town Belt. Take a picnic with you, settle in on the hillside and relax while watching ferries and cruise ships sail into the harbour and planes fly in and out of the airport. Mt Vic is also one of the best spots in the city for taking in a sunrise or sunset.
Pencarrow Coast
Pencarrow Coast Road, Lower Hutt
Walk or bike the coastal trail along the Pencarrow Coast and take in the uninterrupted views across Wellington Harbour. Follow the beautiful (and flat) coastal trail along the Pencarrow Coast Road to the 1906 lighthouse on the shoreline - about an hour's bike ride. If you're feeling fit, you can also venture up to New Zealand's first lighthouse, once home to the country's only female light house keeper. Once you reach the lighthouse, you'll be rewarded with vast views over Wellington harbour and across to the South Island.
Wellington Wind Turbine
Wellington Wind Turbine Owhiro Bay Parade, Wellington
Wellington's Wind Turbine offers some of the best views across the city. You can walk up to the turbine by way of the Waimapihi Reserve trail or there’s the option to bike or drive along the sealed road to the top of Brooklyn Hill. Whatever way you get to the top, once there you’re in for spectacular panoramic views over Wellington city and harbour, Cook Strait and in the distance, the South Island. The 44-metre turbine was originally installed in 1993 and enabled by Wellington’s strong winds, has set international power generation records.
Massey Memorial
Massey Road, Miramar, Wellington
Relax in the peaceful surrounds of this hilltop memorial site which commemorates former New Zealand Prime Minister, William Massey (1912-1925). Tucked away in native bush, this striking memorial is made of pale marble and granite from Takaka (at the top of the South Island) and has panoramic views of Wellington Harbour. The Massey Memorial is located at Point Halswell at the tip of the Miramar Peninsula and can be reached via a short walk from Shelly Bay Road.
Mount Kaukau
Mount Kaukau, Khandallah, Wellington
The summit of Mount Kaukau is the most visible high point in Wellington and provides panoramic views of the city and harbour as well as the Remutaka and Tararua Ranges to the north. It can be reached via the Skyline Track, a five-hour walk that is regarded as one of Wellington’s best. The terrain can be challenging and exposed in places, with plenty of steep undulations, but you'll be rewarded with skyward views across the entire Wellington region.
Explore Matiu Somes Island
Matiu/Somes Island, Lower Hutt, Wellington
In the middle of Wellington's stunning harbour, Matiu/Somes Island is a tranquil retreat for both wildlife and visitors. This predator-free scientific and historic reserve is owned by local iwi (Taranaki Whānui) and managed by the Department of Conservation. Hop on the East by West ferry that runs daily and wander among native plant and bird life, taking in the stunning views around the harbour.
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