Things to do in Wellington

Things to do in Wellington

Wellington may be the capital of New Zealand, but we don’t think the city gets the attention it deserves. It might just be the country’s biggest kept secret. There is so much to do and see in this quirky little capital that you’re biggest problem will be finding enough time to tick everything off your to-do list. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture vulture, a nature nerd or all of the above, Wellington will keep you busier than a five dollar hooker. 

 

Mount Victoria 

Just like the rest of the country, Wellington is no sight for sore eyes. The place is beautiful. Like the arm pinching, jaw dropping, is-this-real type of beauty. The best way to appreciate the natural scenery is to head above the city. Mount Victoria Lookout is just shy of 200m above the CBD and from the top you will be treated to gorgeous, panoramic views of the CBD, the harbour and beyond. We suggest packing a picking, settling in on the hill and sinking a few bevvies in the arvo, while you watch the world go by. You might be so distracted by the view that you forget to share it with your Instagram followers. 

 

Cable Car

Walking to the top isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Before you get your knickers in a knot and starting dropping hints about your sore ankle, there is a lazy (or leisurely – whatever you want to call it) option. Wellington’s most popular tourist attraction is undoubtedly the city’s Cable Car. The local historical icon runs from the hustling downtown CBD, through the picturesque suburbs and the Botanic Gardens, to Mount Victoria lookout. Trips depart every 10 minutes and the ride may be slow but the final destination is worth it. 

 

Taste the City

Pack your loose pants and throw out your scales. You’ll definitely be bringing home with extra weight from Wellington and it won’t be in your luggage. The city is said to have more bars and restaurants per capita than New York and the quality will rival anything you’ve tasted before. It seems there is always a new eatery opening in Wellington, as well of plenty of hidden bars and cafes nestled around the CBD. The best way to embrace the vibrant food scene and meet the brains behind the food is to book yourself in for a walking food tour around the city. This will give you the opportunity to sample everything you’ve ever dreamt of, as well as (attempt) to walk some of it off and make room for more. 

 

Wellington Zoo

Ever wanted to play with a mob of Meerkat or stroke a cheetah’s fur? We bet you do now. Wellington Zoo won the title of “best little zoo in the world” for good reason. There are more than 500 species of animals at the venue and plenty of once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for you to get up close and personal. You can watch vets at work saving local wildlife, learn from the experiences of keepers who keep the animals fed everyday or just wander through the precinct at your own pace. You might even get the chance to meet your long lost bro. He responds to chimp. The resemblance is uncanny.