Visit Wellington – WellingtonNZ

Your guide to spring in Wellington

Spring in Wellington is a bit like the city itself — lively, unpredictable, and full of surprises.

Two golden-brown pies on white plates with forks and folded napkins, arranged on a tiled café table at Jo's Pies in Brooklyn, Wellington.

Flake news: A guide to Wellington’s pies

From award-winning bakeries to gourmet cafés, Wellington’s pie scene spans mince and cheese classics to experimental creations.

Two people sit in the grass with their bicycles lying nearby at Mount Victoria lookout in Wellington, New Zealand with a view of the city centre, the bay and rolling hills in the distance.

Trail and a treat: Outdoor combos in Wellington

The city’s hills, beaches, and trails offer much opportunity to experience nature. Fuel your adventure with a stop-off at one of the excellent eateries offers nearby.

Two people browse a clothing rack inside Preloved Charlies, a second-hand clothing store in Wellington.

Shop sustainably — secondhand fashion in Wellington

Find your next favourite piece at these curated op shops, consignment stores, and all-around treasure troves.

Two people sit and enjoy iced coffees and a dessert on the beach-side patio at Maranui café in Lyall Bay, Wellington.

Brunch by the beach

Fresh coffee, sea breeze, and eggs over easy — these seaside cafés in Wellington offer views of the water and delicious brunch menus.

Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne

Named by Time magazine as one of the 100 greatest places in the world, Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne in Wellington is the world’s first fully fenced ecosanctuary.

Two customers clink their wine glasses and enjoy their food at Graze Wine bar.

Wine not? A full-bodied list of Wellington wine bars

Part of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail, Wellington is the perfect place to sample a local drop (or two).

Outside the Wellington Chocolate Factory, 2 people stand enjoying a coffee. A large black wall is to the left with the business name on it.

24 hours in Wellington

If you’ve only got one day in Wellington and want to get a feel of what the city is like – get ready for a whirlwind tour of tastes, sights, and sounds.

A hot matcha, iced strawberry matcha, and a matcha pastry in Wellington cafe Creamy & Crunchy

Meet your match(a): Where to find great matcha in Wellington

From hand-whisked, authentic matcha to matcha-infused desserts—explore Wellington’s best local spots.

A croissant is picked up with a pair of tongs by a baker wearing a yellow teeshirt and dark grey apron.

Your knead to know list of Wellington bakeries

Rise and shine for your daily dose of carbs at these Wellington bakeries. From doughnuts and croissants to loaves of bread, the proof here is in the pastry.

Three friends enjoy food and drinks al fresco at St Johns Bar on Wellington's Waterfront.

Alfresco in the city

There’s a reason why they say you can’t beat Wellington on a good day. When it’s one of those days, the capital has a great selection of outside dining options.

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.

Where to eat, drink, and be merry on Cuba Street

For many, Cuba Street captures the spirit of Wellington. It’s quirky, bustling, and full of creative life.

From first date to foodie: Where to take your date for dinner

Whether you’re looking for first-date inspiration, a new spot for date night, or something for a special occasion dinner, here’s where to book in Wellington.

A hand holding a dish inside Margot, with 2 other dishes already on the table.

Beyond the central city, great food awaits

The quality of Wellington’s cafés, restaurants, and bars is not confined to the inner city.

Interior of Hummingbird restaurant in Wellington, with guests seated at a green-tiled bar while a staff member prepares drinks behind the counter, shelves of bottles and glassware illuminated by warm, ambient lighting.

Capital classics: Long-lasting restaurants

Wellington is fortunate to have fantastic restaurants that have stood the test of time. These restaurants and cafés are some of the oldest in Wellington.

Fantastic treats and where to find them: hidden Wellington experiences

Discover Wellington’s best hidden gems, from secret harbour viewpoints and native forest walks to historic landmarks, island escapes, boutique cinemas, and cultural attractions.

Family taking a photo with the Wellington sign.

Best things to do for free in Wellington

There are plenty of things to do while you’re in Wellington that won’t cost a cent. Have fun for free while making the most of what the capital has to offer.

A Zealandia staff member leads a group of four friends on a walking tour in the forest.

Nature experiences in Wellington

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

Looking into Iris Store + Studio adorned with their beauty products in white bottles on shelves along the wall and a counter in the centre.

Wellington‘s top spa and wellness experiences

Feeling frazzled? Aura a little off? Wellington offers fantastic spots to relax and reset. Whether you’re after a luxury spa experience, or a soothing facial, there’s a place you can escape to.

A panorama of the Milky Way high in the sky, stretching from east to west. Shot at a Wairarapa Dark Sky reserve location at Cape Palliser on the bottom of the North Island of New Zealand.

Stargaze at Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve

According to Lonely Planet, stargazing in the Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve is one of the Top 25 Experiences in the World. To have a memorable evening in Wairarapa, all you need to do is look up.

The exterior of Te Papa Tongarewa, half glass and half concrete.

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

New Zealand’s national museum reflects the country’s identity, history, and culture.

Two people look at the art on display at Te Whanganui a Tara exhibition, Wellington Museum.

What to do on a rainy day in Wellington

When it’s wet outside, Wellington provides plenty of indoor activities to keep you occupied. Head to these attractions to stay warm, dry, and entertained.