Transport and accommodation product updates

Cross the Cook Strait with Bluebridge ferries. Offering a full café-style menu, free movies, wifi and activities for the kids. Located across from the Wellington train station, the Bluebridge terminal is within walking distance of many major Wellington hotels and attractions.

• New ship Connemara joined the Bluebridge fleet in February 2023, increasing passenger capacity by 500 and cabins by 120. The Connemara also offers dog-friendly cabins.
• Both vessels have private cabins for pre-purchase, all with their own ensuite.
• When booking, please refer to Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferries by name.

New Pōhutukawa Lounge

The all-new Pōhutukawa Lounge onboard Connemara offers passengers an elevated all-inclusive experience.

The space will offer a sanctuary of comfort with many seating options. There are panoramic views, all-inclusive self-service food, and a served drink selection including barista coffee. There are also TVs with entertainment options.

The lounge is for passengers aged 16 and over and can have up to 80 passengers. This ensures a more peaceful atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the main passenger areas.

The Interislander ferry sails between the North and South Island of New Zealand. It offers locally sourced food and beverages, cinemas, free kids activities and premium lounges on board all ferries. The Kaiwharawhara Wellington Terminal is accessed from Hutt Road (from the north) and Aotea Quay (from the south).

• Make the journey extra special in Interislander Plus — the exclusive upgrade option includes lounge-style seating, hot meals, a range of beverage options and dedicated lounge staff. Restricted to ages 18 years and over.
• The new family-friendly Pelorus Jack Lounge is now onboard Kaitaki, perfect for those travelling with older children and are after a guaranteed seat, a range of buffet options, and readily available tea and coffee.
• The Queen Charlotte Lounge on the Kaitaki is a quiet, adults-only space where you are guaranteed a leather recliner for magnificent views. You will receive a $15 food and beverage voucher to use at any onboard café and bar.
• Other commissionable products are available, including private cabins, meal vouchers and group offers.

Great Journeys of New Zealand have resumed the Northern Explorer and Coastal Pacific scenic trains with exciting new tourism offerings.

• New Short Breaks & Packages are available.

Coastal Pacific

One of the most picturesque journeys on New Zealand’s railways, the Coastal Pacific train combined with the Interislander ferry, is the perfect way to connect Wellington, Blenheim, Kaikoura and Christchurch.

• Daily services run until 27 April 2025 and then pause for a winter break.
• The four-day weekly schedule runs from Thursday to Sunday from 19 September 2024.
• Daily services resume from 1 January 2025 until 27 April 2025.

Northern Explorer Scenic Plus

Great Journeys New Zealand’s Scenic Plus offers an all-inclusive experience on the unique scenic rail journey to invigorate all the senses. Feast your eyes on the scenery while you savour regionally inspired cuisine paired with sumptuous wine and beer. Experience it all from the comfort of your seat — a hosted dining experience like no other. 

Scenic carriages are custom-built with panoramic windows, glass shelves, and skylights. They are built to maximise viewing from your seat. A specialist Scenic Plus host provides service and care from priority check-in. They provide a warm welcome, engaging conversation, and local knowledge and stories during your journey.

The Northern Explorer is an 11-hour journey departing from Auckland to Wellington. It heads down the country on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, then returns north on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

The Airport Express Bus is back up and running. Now fully electric, this service enables visitors to keep their emissions low with this competitive airport transport option.

Travelling from the Wellington International Airport, through the city centre, and to the Wellington Railway Station — connecting you to the wider Wellington region. The AX departs from outside the Airport Terminal or at Stop A at the Railway Station and runs frequent daily services.

The AX service has been designed with travellers in mind, with free wifi, USB charging and luggage racks — to get visitors into the city in 25 to 35 minutes. Travellers can pay onboard with cash, EFTPOS (credit or debit) or Snapper (local transport card).

Formerly known as YHA Wellington, the rebranded Haka House is your centrally located, largest hostel offering in Wellington. Just a short walk from Te Papa, the waterfront, and Courtenay Place you are close to everything you need.

With a range of room options and facilities including dorms, private rooms, family rooms and ensuite options, there is something to suit every type of traveller.

Haka House

Park Hotel Wellington has re-opened in 2023.

Park Hotel

Wyndham is making its mark in Wellington, opening its third property, TRYP Hotel. Inspired by the art deco style of old-Chicago architecture, TRYP by Wyndham Wellington offers all travellers an elevated hotel experience.

• Offering 77 accommodation options, with a mix of hotel, apartment and suite-style rooms in a range of layouts.
• The elegant Executive Suites feature one and two-bedroom options with full kitchen and laundry facilities and balconies overlooking the city.
• Opulent, bold and making a statement to the city of Wellington - the luxury Penthouse 601 is the largest hotel penthouse in the city and offers guests a truly luxurious experience.
• TRYP is Qualmark Silver accredited.

Accor’s The Sebel Wellington Thorndon is open. Formerly Proximity Apartments, the Sebel in Thorndon is a serviced apartment hotel nestled in Wellington’s vibrant city.

• Centrally located to key attractions Hnry Stadium, The Beehive, and Wellington city centre.
• Digital hotel solutions, including online check-in and check-out features, and the ability to chat with the team directly via WhatsApp.
• Brand new purpose-built serviced apartment hotel

Accor’s The Sebel Wellington Lower Hutt is just a 20-minute drive from the central Wellington.

• The Sebel sits proudly alongside Te Awa Kairangi , and is close to the Lower Hutt Events Centre, providing guests with a dynamic atmosphere and stunning views of the river and the Riddiford Gardens.
• Showcases upscale design along with modern-day amenities throughout to provide a truly unique accommodation experience.

The newest addition to the Independent Collection by EVT, the Museum Apartment Hotel features 97 beautiful furnished apartments in the heart of central Wellington.

• Every guest will have access to QT onsite leisure facilities, including a swimming pool and gym.
• Next door, QT Wellington’s food and beverage outlets, including the Level 3 restaurant, signature cocktails at Hot Sauce and nightcaps in the Lobby Lounge, are at the fingertips of Museum Apartment Hotel guests.

Rydges Wellington has returned to the market following a recent refurbishment of Deluxe and Suite rooms, conference space and leisure facilities, and overall seismic strengthening.

• The refurbished Deluxe Rooms offer a more contemporary feel and complement the stunning harbour and city views.
• The newly renovated leisure centre cements the hotel’s positioning as a key corporate and leisure property within Wellington city centre.
• Portlander reopens with a deliciously refreshed menu and even more exciting events for guests and its loyal Prime Club members alike.

Singapore company Naumi Hotels is now fully open, offering two properties — Naumi Hotel Wellington and Naumi Studio Wellington. Featuring bold palettes, delightful design and 178 rooms in total.

• The lounge bar and restaurant offer whimsical and contemporary styling. There are plenty of meeting and event spaces.
• Both interconnecting hotels are centrally located on Cuba Street, one of Wellington’s main streets for all things fun, tasty and hip.

Sojourn Ghuznee is a brand-new apartment hotel located 150 metres from the vibrant Cuba St precinct.

It features 75 apartment-styled rooms equipped with full kitchenettes.

New to New Zealand is Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts. Mövenpick Hotel Wellington is a five-star offering located on The Terrace overlooking the vibrant Cuba Quarter and within walking distance of major Wellington attractions.

• Features include Kitchen & Bar Restaurant, 24-hour reception, a 12-metre indoor heated lap pool, sauna, a fully equipped gym, and a dedicated conference and events floor equipped with the latest technology.
• Special offerings include a 24-hour sundae service, a daily chocolate hour, and their ‘Kea Kids Retreat’.

Mövenpick was previously the Grand Mercure.

Ramada Suites by Wyndham is open on Taranaki Street with 72 rooms.

• Centrally located, surrounded by many dining options and easy access to public transportation.
• Free wifi, a gym, and well-appointed guest rooms.

Microtel by Wyndham from Marsden Hotels & Resorts is open with 80 rooms.

• Opened in 2022, making it the group’s 13th property in New Zealand.
• Located on Vivian Street so centrally located, surrounded by many dining options and easy access to public transportation.
• Free wifi, paid parking, a café and modern guest rooms.