Sights & Activities
Unforgettable sights
Te Papa Tongarewa – experience an earthquake simulation, learn about Maori culture and history, or see the famous
John Britten motorcycle – the spectacular Museum of New Zealand is a must-see for visitors to Wellington.
Adrenaline-rush
Sea kayaking or windsurfing, Wellington Harbour – rent a kayak from the waterfront and paddle amongst the boats and sea life.
4x4 adventure, Kapiti Coast – get off-road and explore the rugged landscape.
Relax & Indulge
Karori Wildlife Sanctuary – take a relaxing and uplifting wander through this remarkable inner city safe haven for endangered native birds and other wildlife.
Writers’ Walk – stroll around the waterfront and contemplate lines of poetry by local writers inscribed in plaques along the way.
Top Picks
Culture
Taonga MataOra – an outstanding combination of fine dining with authentic and dynamic performances from Maori and Pacific Island communities in the unique setting of Te Papa’s marae (
www.tepapa.govt.nz).
Road Trip
From Wellington drive to Martinborough and then down to the coast to the wild and wonderful Cape Palliser.
Luxury
East Day Spa – Luxurious Eastern-style spa, treat yourself to some calm and serenity.
Inexpensive or free
Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa – the national museum is a leader in interactive museum experiences (
www.tepapa.govt.nz).
Culinary experiences
Zest Food Tours of New Zealand – tours for people after culinary adventure (
www.zestfoodtours.co.nz).
Exclusive dining
Logan Brown – multi-award-winning Logan Brown is fine dining New Zealand style at 192 Cuba Street, Wellington (
www.loganbrown.co.nz).
Casual dining
Matterhorn – a seasonal menu that is deceptively simple and rustic in nature (
www.matternorn.co.nz).
Café
Caffe L’afarre – a top coffee roaster and a real Wellington tradition (27 College Street).
Swishy Bar
Havana, Wellington – funky and laid-back with live music (
www.havana.co.nz).
Cosy pub
Hotel Bristol – great pub food, inexpensive drinks and a cosy fire in winter (
www.hotelbristol.co.nz).
Shop or gallery
Kura Contemporary Ethnic Art Gallery – New Zealand fine art and crafts (
www.kuragallery.co.nz).