Wharewaka o Pōneke walking tours

Wellington’s early history is rich in stories. Local iwi Te Atiawa can give you an insight into the city’s cultural background. They conduct walking tours and waka experiences on the water. The tours share stories of the city’s Māori past, and explain how it has led to its contemporary culture.

All tours leave from Te Wharewaka o Pōneke — a distinctive building located by Whairepo Lagoon on Wellington’s waterfront. It is the site where Te Aro Pā once stood, one of the largest Māori communities in Wellington up until the 1880s.

The exterior of Karaka Cafe at Te Wharewaka o Pōneke over the water.

Walking tours

There are two walking tours to choose from.

On the two-hour Hidden Māori Treasures tour, you’ll head to Te Aro pā and learn about the people who lived there. There’s also a special visit to an excavation site that’s not open to the public. This unique experience tells the stories of how Wellington developed and became the city it is today.

If you’re short on time, a one-hour City to Sea tour will have you seeing Wellington from an all-new perspective. You’ll hear about Polynesian explorer Kupe’s arrival in Aotearoa, the story of the taniwha that shaped the harbour, and find out how Māori culture influences modern-day life in Wellington.

You’ll also hear stories about the two taniwha in the harbour and other fascinating facts about Māori culture.

Waka tour

Four traditionally carved working waka sit in Te Wharewaka o Pōneke. A traditional Māori mihi whakatau awaits visitors. After a waiata and introductions, guides will take you through everything you need to know to become kaihoe . They teach you basic commands, chants, haka , and salutes. Paddling across the water in a waka is a unique and enchanting tour that offers insight into Māori culture.

Looking for more?

American singer-songwriter, Teddy Swims’ wearing a swanky outfit sitting on a couch in a room with red lighting.

Teddy Swims — ‘I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy’ tour

7 July 2024TSB Arena

Two people play Super Mario racing arcade game machines in Holey Moley, the mini golf course and bar at Willis Lane located in the Central Business District of Wellington.

Things to do when you want to have fun

Wellington has plenty of fun things to do with your friends. From pinball to mini golf, here’s how you can do something that’s a little bit different.

Young children pointing up at the Earth projected onto the digital planetarium and Space Place.

Te Ara Whānui ki te Rangi Space Place

Space Place is home to a digital full-dome planetarium, the historic Thomas Cooke telescope, and interactive galleries and exhibitions.

Four colourful cocktails lined up on the counter at Crumpet, a bar located on Manners Street in Te Aro, Wellington.

Mix it up at Wellington’s cocktail bars

Shaken or stirred, the capital’s bartenders know how to make a mean cocktail. Revisit a classic, or ask for something made specially for you. These cocktail bars have a tipple or two to tempt your tastebuds.

Two people sitting up at the bar at Ascot, catching up for a drink whilst being served by a bartender.

Hidden bars of Wellington (and how to find them)

Up a flight of winding stairs, down a laneway, or tucked into the back of a hotel, here’s how to find Wellington’s best-kept secret bars.

An exhibition at Jhana Millers art gallery, located on Victoria Street in Te Aro, Wellington.

Contemporary art galleries

The art scene is thriving in Wellington with a close-knit group of dealer galleries providing contemporary art for sale. Between them, they capture current art trends in the New Zealand market whether it be photography, sculpture, painting, textile, or installation.