Beste Reisezeit
November to April
Währung
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Sprache
English, Māori
Zeitzone
NZST (UTC+12)
Discover Wellington
Wellington isn't just a capital; it's a vibrant, walkable city where creativity spills from every corner. Forget generic downtowns—here, you'll find the world-class, interactive exhibits of Te Papa Tongarewa museum, the whimsical charm of the historic Wellington Cable Car climbing to the Botanic Garden, and the legendary film-making magic of Weta Workshop, where the props for The Lord of the Rings were born. The city's famous wind isn't just a quirk; it fuels a dynamic energy, sweeping scents of roasting coffee from spots like Flight Coffee Hangar down the colorful, bohemian lanes of Cuba Street.
This is a city built for discovery. You can spend a morning spotting rare native birds like the kākā in the predator-free haven of Zealandia Ecosanctuary, then enjoy fresh seafood with harbor views at Shed 5 on the waterfront promenade. As evening falls, the compact CBD transforms, with hidden cocktail bars in alleyways and a thriving craft beer scene in neighborhoods like Hannahs Laneway, where Garage Project pours experimental brews. Wellington's magic lies in its density of world-class experiences, all wrapped in a famously friendly and slightly eccentric Kiwi spirit.
Why Visit Wellington?
A World-Class Museum Scene: Dive into New Zealand's stories at the national museum, Te Papa Tongarewa, with its groundbreaking Gallipoli exhibition and colossal squid. Explore the moving Museum of New Zealand Police and the fascinating City Gallery Wellington for contemporary art.
The Epicenter of Middle-earth Film Magic: Go behind the scenes at Weta Workshop for a guided tour of the props and effects from The Lord of the Rings and other blockbusters. Visit the Roxy Cinema, owned by Weta, or take a guided tour to filming locations on Mount Victoria.
A Global Hub for Craft Coffee & Beer: Experience Wellington's legendary coffee culture at pioneering roasteries like Mojo Coffee and L'affare. Then, explore the craft beer revolution in the walkable 'Beer Mile,' featuring iconic breweries like Garage Project, Parrotdog, and Heyday.
Stunning Natural Beauty in the City: Ride the historic cable car to the Botanic Garden for panoramic views, hike or drive to the summit of Mount Victoria for a 360-degree lookout, and explore the fully-fenced urban ecosanctuary, Zealandia, to see kiwi and tuatara in the wild.
A Thriving, Walkable Creative Quarter: Lose yourself in the bohemian energy of Cuba Street, with its vintage shops, street performers, and iconic Bucket Fountain. Discover independent galleries, designer boutiques, and vibrant street art in the adjacent lanes of the CBD.
Incredible Fresh Food & Waterfront Dining: Savor the 'from boat to plate' ethos at the Sunday Harbourside Market and waterfront restaurants like Ortega Fish Shack. Indulge in classic Kiwi treats like a mince and cheese pie from The Fancy Bakery or a Hokey Pokey ice cream.
Wellington ist Bekannt für
Bereit, Wellington zu entdecken?
Wellington Neighborhoods
Central Business District (CBD) & Waterfront
The compact, beating heart of Wellington, blending modern government buildings with historic architecture, all leading to a vibrant waterfront promenade. This is where you'll find the major institutions, upscale shopping on Lambton Quay, and a dense concentration of cafes and bars.
Highlights:
Best for:
Cuba Street & Te Aro
The bohemian soul of the city, known for its colorful, pedestrian-friendly streets, vintage stores, eclectic dining, and iconic street art. The area pulses with creative energy, from second-hand bookshops to cutting-edge fashion boutiques and buzzing nightlife.
Highlights:
Best for:
Thorndon
A historic, leafy suburb nestled at the base of the Botanic Garden, home to Parliament buildings, diplomatic residences, and charming wooden cottages. It offers a quieter, more genteel atmosphere with excellent bakeries and proximity to the cable car.
Highlights:
Best for:
Miramar & Seatoun
The coastal suburbs that are the home of Weta Workshop and Park Road Post, making this the undisputed heart of New Zealand's film industry. The area has a relaxed, village-like feel with great coastal walks, beaches, and cinema-themed cafes.
Highlights:
Best for:
Top Sehenswürdigkeiten
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Always carry a light jacket or windbreaker—Wellington's famous wind can spring up suddenly, even on sunny days.
- •For the best coffee, look for cafes displaying the 'Supreme' or 'Mojo' roastery logos, or ask a local for their favorite 'flat white' spot.
- •Use the Snapper card for buses; it's cheaper than cash fares and can be topped up at many dairies (corner stores).
- •Visit Te Papa's 'Awesome Forces' earthquake house and the colossal squid exhibit—they're free and uniquely Wellingtonian.
- •On a sunny day, join the locals and buy fish and chips from The Chippery or Seatoun Bait Shack to eat on the beach.
- •The best views aren't always from Mount Victoria; try the lookout at the top of the Mount Kaukau walk or from the Brooklyn Wind Turbine.
- •Many central city car parks offer early bird rates if you enter before 9am and exit after 3pm—a huge saving.
- •Check out the free Wellington City Council app for live bus times, public toilet maps, and walking tours.
- •For a cheap and delicious lunch, head to the underground food court at Midland Park or the Willis Lane food trucks.
- •Don't just ride the cable car up and down. Walk back down through the Botanic Garden and Bolton Street Cemetery for a lovely, free stroll.
Wellington Food Scene
Wellington's food scene is fiercely independent, innovative, and driven by exceptional local produce. The city champions craft over corporate, from its world-renowned coffee roasteries and microbreweries to its chef-driven restaurants focusing on seasonal, regional ingredients, especially seafood from the surrounding waters.
Must-Try Dishes
Cafe Culture & Coffee
- • Flight Coffee Hangar
- • L'affare
- • Customs by Coffee Supreme
Order a 'long black' if you prefer an Americano, and don't be shy to ask the barista for their single-origin recommendation.
Casual & Street Food
- • Night Market (various locations)
- • The Ramen Shop
- • Ekim Burgers
The Wellington Night Market moves locations (often on Cuba Street or the waterfront); check its Facebook page for the weekly schedule.
Seafood & Fine Dining
- • Ortega Fish Shack
- • Hippopotamus Restaurant
- • Shed 5
Book well in advance for popular waterfront restaurants, especially for dinner with a harbor view. Lunch can be a more accessible (and affordable) option.
Craft Beer & Bars
- • Garage Project Taproom (Aro Valley)
- • Fortune Favours Beer
- • Heyday Beer Co.
Create your own 'Beer Mile' crawl in the Aro Valley/CBD area. Many taprooms offer tasting paddles so you can sample a range of unique local brews.
Beliebt bei
Best Time to Visit Wellington
Spring
Spring (September-November) brings blooming flowers in the Botanic Garden, warmer temperatures, and less wind than summer. It's a lively time as the city shakes off winter.
Pros:
- + Beautiful gardens and parks
- + Shoulder season prices
- + Good hiking weather
Cons:
- - Weather can be unpredictable, with some rain
- - Ocean is still quite cold for swimming
Summer
Summer (December-February) is peak season with long, sunny days, festivals like the NZ Festival of the Arts, and buzzing outdoor dining. The famous wind is often at its calmest.
Pros:
- + Warmest weather (avg 20°C)
- + Major festivals and events
- + Perfect for waterfront activities
Cons:
- - Most crowded and expensive
- - Accommodation books out far in advance
Autumn
Autumn (March-May) offers crisp, clear days, stunning foliage in the town belt, and the tail end of good weather. It's an excellent time for hiking and enjoying the city without the summer crowds.
Pros:
- + Pleasant, mild temperatures
- + Beautiful autumn colors
- + Fewer tourists
Cons:
- - Days get shorter
- - Weather becomes more variable towards May
Winter
Winter (June-August) is cool, windy, and rainy, but the cultural scene heats up indoors with film festivals, theatre, and cozy cafes. Snow is rare in the city but can dust the surrounding hills.
Pros:
- + Lowest accommodation rates
- + Vibrant indoor arts and culture scene
- + Great for museum-hopping
Cons:
- - Coldest weather (avg 9°C) and strong winds
- - Short daylight hours
- - Some outdoor activities less appealing
Günstige Anreise nach Wellington
Vergleiche Preise für Züge, Busse und Flüge nach Wellington
Gib deine Abfahrtsstadt ein, um Preise zu sehen
Aktivitäten in Wellington buchen
Warteschlangen überspringen mit vorgebuchten Touren und Attraktionen
Day Trips from Wellington
Martinborough Wine Region
1 hour 15 min by car
A world-class pinot noir region with over 20 boutique wineries clustered around a charming village square. Perfect for a relaxed day of cycling between cellar doors and enjoying vineyard lunches.
Kapiti Coast
45 min by train
A stretch of beautiful beaches and coastal towns north of Wellington, offering a classic Kiwi beach holiday vibe, great surf, and the unique Kapiti Island nature reserve.
The Remutaka Forest Park
30 min by car to trailheads
A rugged and beautiful regional park offering fantastic hiking, mountain biking on the famous Remutaka Cycle Trail, and historic sites like the Pakuratahi Forks.
Wellington Budget Guide
Wellington is moderately priced for a capital city. While accommodation can be costly, especially in peak season, many top attractions are free, and a compact city center saves on transport costs.
Budget
NZD $80-120 per day (hostel dorm, self-catering, free attractions, public transport)
per day
Mid-Range
NZD $180-300 per day (private hotel/boutique motel, cafe meals, paid attractions, occasional taxi)
per day
Luxury
NZD $400+ per day (5-star hotel, fine dining, private tours, rental car)
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Take advantage of free attractions: Te Papa, Botanic Garden, waterfront walk, and city galleries have no entry fee.
- •Stay in suburbs like Newtown or Hataitai for cheaper accommodation with good bus links.
- •Buy a Snapper card for 25% off cash bus fares.
- •Eat lunch at food courts or markets; dinner prices are significantly higher.
- •Fill a reusable water bottle—Wellington's tap water is excellent and free.
Wellington Hidden Gems
The Wrights Hill Fortress
A historic WWII coastal artillery fortification built into the hills of Karori, featuring underground tunnels and bunkers.
It's a fascinating piece of military history with incredible 360-degree views from the top, yet it's rarely crowded. Open only on public holidays for guided tours.
Matiu/Somes Island
A scientific and historic reserve island in the middle of Wellington Harbour, accessible by a short ferry ride.
It's a predator-free sanctuary where you can see rare native wildlife, explore historic quarantine buildings, and get unique panoramic views of the city, all in peaceful isolation.
The Thistle Inn
New Zealand's oldest continuously licensed pub, established in 1840 in Thorndon.
Steeped in authentic history and character, it's a world away from modern bars. Enjoy a quiet pint and imagine the early settlers and politicians who drank here.
Space Place at the Carter Observatory
An astronomy centre and planetarium located at the top of the Botanic Garden, next to the Cable Car terminus.
Often overlooked for daytime attractions, it offers stunning evening planetarium shows and, on clear nights, telescope viewing of the southern hemisphere stars.
The Dowse Art Museum
A leading contemporary art museum located in Lower Hutt, a short train ride from Wellington.
It consistently punches above its weight with innovative, free exhibitions and an incredible collection of applied arts (ceramics, jewellery, fashion), offering a different cultural perspective from the city-centre galleries.
Wellington Culture & Customs
Wellington's culture is creative, informal, and proudly Kiwi. It values innovation ('number 8 wire' mentality), a strong connection to nature, and a deep respect for Māori culture, which is integrated into the city's identity through place names, art, and ceremonies at places like Te Papa.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Tipping is not expected but appreciated for exceptional service (5-10%).
- •Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home.
- •Be punctual for appointments and bookings.
- •Respect the 'tapu' (sacredness) of Māori sites; don't eat or drink in these areas unless invited.
- •Queue politely and wait your turn; pushing in line is frowned upon.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Wellington
Is Wellington really that windy?
Yes, it's famously windy, earning the nickname 'Windy Wellington.' The wind is caused by the funneling effect of the Cook Strait. It's often a refreshing breeze in summer but can be strong and chilly in other seasons, so packing a windproof layer is essential.
How many days do I need in Wellington?
We recommend a minimum of 2-3 full days. This allows one day for Te Papa and the waterfront, one for the cable car, Botanic Garden, and Zealandia or Mount Victoria, and another for exploring Cuba Street, museums, or a film studio tour. Add extra days for day trips.
Can I visit the Weta Workshop without a tour?
Yes, you can visit the free Weta Cave shop to see a small exhibition of props and buy merchandise. However, to see the workshops where the magic happens, you must book a guided tour in advance, as spaces are limited.
Is Wellington safe for tourists?
Wellington is generally a very safe city. Standard urban precautions apply: be aware of your belongings in crowded areas, and the central city is well-lit and busy at night. The CBD and popular suburbs have a low crime rate against tourists.
What's the best way to get around the city?
Walking is best for the compact city centre and waterfront. For longer distances or hills, use the comprehensive bus network with a Snapper card. The cable car is a tourist attraction for a specific route. Taxis and rideshares are readily available.
Do I need to rent a car in Wellington?
Not if you're staying in the city. Everything is accessible by foot or bus. A car is only necessary for exploring outer suburbs at your own pace, visiting more remote beaches, or taking day trips to the wine region or Kapiti Coast.
Are there good day hikes near Wellington?
Absolutely. The Skyline Walkway along the hills offers stunning views. The Remutaka Crossing is a popular full-day hike. Closer in, the trails from the Brooklyn Wind Turbine or the Mount Kaukau track provide excellent shorter options with big rewards.
What is the voltage and plug type?
New Zealand uses Type I plugs, with a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. Visitors from North America will need a plug adapter and may require a voltage converter for some appliances, though most modern electronics (laptops, phones) are dual-voltage.
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