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Things to do in Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand's compact capital, punches well above its weight with world-class museums, a thriving food and craft beer scene, and stunning harbor views, and much of it won't cost you a cent. Compared to Auckland or Sydney, Wellington offers genuine cultural depth at a noticeably lower price point.

Solo-woman-friendlyLGBTQ-friendlyGreat for first-timersVery safeWalkableDigital-nomad-friendly

Why go to Wellington

  • Te Papa Tongarewa (Museum of New Zealand)

    A vast, free national museum spanning Māori culture, natural history, and New Zealand identity, easily a half-day highlight.

  • Wellington Cable Car & Botanic Garden

    Ride the iconic red cable car to panoramic harbor views, then wander down through stunning free gardens.

  • Zealandia Ecosanctuary

    A groundbreaking urban wildlife sanctuary where you can spot tuatara, kākā, and kiwi in their natural habitat.

  • Mount Victoria Lookout

    Free panoramic views over the city, harbor, and Cook Strait that rival any paid observation deck on earth.

  • Weta Workshop Unleashed

    An immersive walk-through experience from the Oscar-winning creators of Lord of the Rings and Avatar, pure movie magic.

Make it real

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Not feeling Wellington?

Good to know in Wellington

  • Transit: Metlink buses cover the entire city and cost $2-4 per trip with a Snapper card, grab one at a dairy or the i-SITE and avoid cash fares which cost more.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not culturally expected in New Zealand; rounding up or leaving a few dollars is appreciated but never obligatory, no guilt required.
  • Tap water: Wellington's tap water is excellent, clean, and free, carry a reusable bottle and skip bottled water entirely.
  • Free-entry days: Te Papa is always free; City Gallery Wellington has no permanent collection charge; the Botanic Garden and most outdoor attractions are free year-round.

Trip essentials

Rental car

Reach day trips and beaches the buses do not, on your own schedule.

Tours & activities

Skip-the-line tickets and day trips, often cheaper booked ahead.

Data eSIM

Maps and rides the minute you land, no roaming bills.

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Things to do in Wellington: top sights, costs and free ideas | Wellington, New Zealand