Wellington 7 Day Itinerary

Wellington 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City

• Morning: Arrive in Wellington and check-in to your accommodation. Recommended stays include:
  • QT Wellington for a luxurious experience
  • YHA Wellington for budget-friendly options
• Afternoon:
  • Visit the Te Papa Museum to learn about New Zealand’s history, art, and culture (free admission)
  • Take a stroll along the Wellington Waterfront , enjoying the scenic views and street performers
• Evening:
  • Head to Courtenay Place for dinner and drinks at one of the many restaurants and bars
  • Try Logan Brown for contemporary New Zealand cuisine

Day 2: Nature Escapes

• Morning: Take a scenic drive to Makara Peak Mountain Bike Park (about 30 minutes) and enjoy a guided bike tour or hike
• Afternoon:
  • Visit the Wellington Botanic Garden , featuring over 25 hectares of gardens and native forests
  • Explore the Zealandia Sanctuary , a predator-free haven for native wildlife (bookings essential)
• Evening:
  • Enjoy dinner at The Larder in the heart of Te Aro, serving seasonal small plates and craft beer
  • Catch a show or concert at The Opera House

Day 3: Weta Workshop and Movie Magic

• Morning: Visit Weta Workshop for a behind-the-scenes look at movie magic (bookings essential)
• Afternoon:
  • Take a guided tour of the Wellington Film Locations , exploring iconic spots from Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies
  • Visit the Embassy Theatre , a historic cinema hosting film festivals and events
• Evening:
  • Dine at Hippopotamus in the QT Hotel, serving French-inspired cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
  • Enjoy a drink at The Library , a sophisticated cocktail bar

Day 4: Day Trip to Kapiti Coast

• Morning: Take a day trip to the Kapiti Coast (about 1 hour north of Wellington)
• Afternoon:
  • Visit the Kapiti Island Nature Reserve , home to native birds and wildlife (ferry bookings essential)
  • Explore the charming coastal towns of Paraparaumu and Waikanae
• Evening:
  • Return to Wellington and enjoy dinner at The Crab Shack , serving fresh seafood and waterfront views
  • Visit the Foxglove Bar & Kitchen for craft beer and live music

Day 5: Cultural Experiences

• Morning: Visit the National Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa for a deeper dive into Māori culture and history
• Afternoon:
  • Explore the vibrant Cuba Street , known for its street art, independent shops, and eclectic atmosphere
  • Attend a traditional Kapa Haka performance at Te Papa or other cultural venues (bookings essential)
• Evening:
  • Enjoy dinner at Osteria del Toro , serving Italian-inspired cuisine with a focus on local produce
  • Visit the Fringe Bar & Cafe for live music and comedy performances

Day 6: Outdoor Adventures

• Morning: Take a scenic drive to Red Rocks Reserve (about 30 minutes) for a coastal hike and seal spotting
• Afternoon:
  • Visit the Makara Peak Mountain Bike Park again, or try Wellington Cable Car for panoramic views of the city
  • Explore the Oriental Bay and its picturesque beachside promenade
• Evening:
  • Dine at Bistro 916 , serving modern New Zealand cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
  • Enjoy a drink at The Pinnacle , offering stunning views of the city and harbour

Day 7: Departure

• Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute attractions
• Afternoon: Depart Wellington, bringing back memories of this vibrant capital city

Transportation

• Wellington is easily accessible by car, bus, or train. For public transportation, use the Metlink network.
• Alternatively, consider booking a guided tour or shuttle service for day trips and activities.

Tips and Essentials

• Be prepared for changeable weather in Wellington, with layers and waterproof gear.
• Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance to avoid sold-out situations.
• Try some of Wellington’s famous coffee culture at one of the many cafes throughout the city.
• Respect New Zealand’s natural environment and cultural heritage by following local guidelines and regulations.

Other Things to Know

• Wellington is a compact city, making it easy to get around on foot or by bike.
• Be sure to try some of the region’s renowned wine varieties, such as Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc.
• The city hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including the Wellington International Arts Festival and World of Wearable Art .

Enjoy your time in Wellington!