What to do on a sunny day in Wellington

When the weather is fine, we flock outside to soak up some sun. From swims and walks to eating out, there are plenty of fun things to do in Wellington

Wellington waterfront

Wellington Waterfront Jervois Quay

View map

Wellington’s waterfront is the city’s backyard, where everyone goes to hang out and do recreational activities. A wide footpath stretches from the Railway Station to Oriental Bay and beyond, which is a great place to walk, jog or cycle along.

Along the way, you’ll find many public sculptures, park benches and places to stop for a coffee or a gelato. On sunny days, stop by the Taranaki Wharf to watch as swimmers jump off a specially-designed eight-metre-high dive platform.

wellingtonwaterfront.co.nz

Scorching Bay

Scorching Bay, Karaka Bays, Wellington

View map

On a hot summer’s day, the place to be is Scorching Bay on the Miramar Peninsula. Known for its golden sand and clear blue waters, the popular beach is the perfect spot for a picnic, a game of beach cricket, swimming, or a climb on the playground.

If you're feeling peckish, grab a bite to eat from the beachside café, Scorch-O-Rama – one of Wellington's retro-themed cafès. Serving excellent food alongside great coffee, milkshakes, and ice creams, take them to go or opt to be seated at seaside tables.

Explore Wellington's Trails

Whether you're up for an invigorating amble through native bush, a casual weekend wander with your dog, or an uphill ride or climb rewarded by epic views, you'll find all of this and more on Wellington's regional trails.

There are over 200 trails around the region with something for all fitness levels. Check out the Wellington Regional Trails website for guides, maps and all of the information you need to plan your outdoor adventure.

wellingtonregionaltrails.com

Explore Matiu Somes Island

Matiu/Somes Island, Lower Hutt, Wellington

View map

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.

wellingtonregionaltrails.com/matiu-somes-island

Go and play at Days Bay

123 Jackson Street, Eastbourne, Lower Hutt

View map

A sandy beach with bush-clad hills behind, Days Beach is a beautiful place to visit no matter the season. It's particularly popular during the warmer months for swimming and picnicking. Hire kayaks and paddleboards from Wildfinder or head up into the hills for a bushwalk. 

Days Bay has a couple of great cafés for lunch or dinner and an ice cream shop. To get there, drive around the harbour to Days Bay from Petone or take the East by West ferry across the harbour. 

huttvalleynz.com/days-bay

Pencarrow Coast

Pencarrow Coast Road, Lower Hutt

View map

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.

wellingtonregionaltrails.com/pencarrow-coast-road

You might like

Be in the KNOW

Subscribe to get fortnightly updates on what’s fresh, new and happening in Wellington

You may unsubscribe in the footer of all emails from WellingtonNZ. For more info, read our enews terms