Curator’s statement
Wellington holds a special place in my heart because I was fortunate enough to call it home for six months. During that time, I discovered the city’s unique balance of natural beauty and vibrant culture—from the harbor views and lush hillsides to the buzzing cafés and creative energy that fill the streets. Living there gave me the chance to experience the city as more than a visitor, and its warmth and character left a lasting impression.
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Things to do in Wellington
Me at Oriental Bay after walking down from The Mount Victoria lookout.
Hike up to the top of Mount Victoria Lookout
This is a great, easy hike close to the city center and gives an amazing view of the whole city. If you love mountain biking, there are paths down from the top, but be careful it is a very bumpy way down.
Shopping and eating on Cuba Street
It is a closed-off walking street with really cute shops, restaurants, and bars. At the end of summer (end of March usually) they have the CubaDupa festival. It is an annual event, with food, music, and activities.
Weta Workshop
This is a great place for movie lovers. Weta Workshop is famous for its amazing special effects work on some of Hollywood’s biggest films. They offer tours and hands-on workshops.
Red Rock's coastal walk
A beautiful hike just outside the city. It is a 7.4 km walk over rocks and sand. Be on the lookout for fur seals along the way.
Wellington Botanic Garden
25 hectares of beautiful plants, flowers, and trees. It is a fun free way to see New Zealand's botanicals.
Wellington Beehive
This is home to New Zealand's parliament. Go on a tour to see where New Zealand creates and passes its laws.
Beaches
Go out to Lyall Bay to go surfing or watch locals surf. Depending on the season, the water may be pretty cold, but you can appreciate watching other people in the water.
If it is warm, go lay out on the Oriental Bay Beach. It is a short walk from the city and is a great place to dip into the ocean.
Wellington must-visit museums
My two favorites are Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. There are so many interesting things to learn about New Zealand. One fun thing there is an ‘earthquake house’, it simulates what an earthquake feels like.
My other favourite museum is The City Gallery of Wellington. It has some great permanent collections and always acquires interesting rotating collections.
Places to eat & drink in Wellington
Me at Coene's Bar & Eatery for brunch.
K C Cafe & Takeaway: An amazing Chinese take-away. It is very authentic, including some incredible clay pot dishes. I recommend picking it up and taking it to eat somewhere with a beautiful view nearby.
Fidel's Cafe: Cute Cuban cafe. It has great smoothies, coffees, and sandwiches. It is a great option if you are exploring Cuba Street.
Coene's Bar & Eatery: Great brunch spot. It overlooks the ocean. It is located right next to Oriental Bay. It is a great place to go before you hang out on the beach.
Boulcott Street Bistro: Located in a cute 1870’s cottage and has delicious upscale food. It has a cozy atmosphere and they are so warm and kind.
The Library: Great cocktail bar with a cute library theme on Courtney Place, a main street in Wellington.
Karaka Cafe: I would always go for coffee and a muffin. It has nice outdoor seating, some of it bean bag chairs. It looks out on the water and you can see people leaving to row. It is a great location to get a quick breakfast before going to the museums.
Need to know
There is a ferry that goes from Wellington to Marlborough through the Cook Strait. This is a great way to get from the North to the South Island (or the other way around). It is a very scenic 3.5-hour ride on a very nice ferry. It has a restaurant, bar, and activities like a movie theater. It is a nice, leisurely way to enjoy beautiful scenery.
Marlborough is a great area to explore vineyards and start your exploration of the South Island.
The South Island is filled with more dense, wild, and beautiful nature than the North Island. The South Island is much less densely populated.
The ferry is a great way to continue your New Zealand adventure.
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