Best Wellington Day Trips & Things to Do

Wellington is the capital of New Zealand, located at the southern tip of the North Island along a deep, hill fringed harbor. The city center is easily explored on foot, stretching from the waterfront to the steep residential hills. Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum, sits on the harbor edge and offers deep insights into Māori history and the natural environment of the islands. For a classic experience, travelers ride the bright red Wellington Cable Car from the central business district up to the Botanic Garden for views across the city and the Cook Strait. Wellington is also a major hub for the film industry, with Weta Workshop in the suburb of Miramar showcasing the artistry behind movie trilogies. Nature is integrated into the city at places like Zealandia, a fenced eco sanctuary that has reintroduced rare native birds to the urban area.