There's plenty to do in Wellington - so take a peek at our guide to discover the best places to eat, drink, shop, and more in New Zealand's capital city.
Rated one of the world’s windiest cities, New Zealand’s neat little capital has a reputation for ruining new umbrellas and fancy hairdos, but don’t let that put you off. Wellington has much more to offer than the weather forecast would have you believe.
Chosen as the first major planned settlement for British immigrants in 1839 (and stealing the title of ‘country capital’ off Auckland in 1865), the population of creators, musicians, politicians, business people, students, and travellers will agree that this is a place worth settling down in.
Home to the much-loved Te Papa museum, Wellington hosts many museums, libraries, theatres, and festivals, giving this city the melting pot of culture and fun it is so well known for. Hardly a day goes by without a festival of some sort or another — whether it's the World of Wearable Arts, Wellington on a Plate, or the International Comedy Festival to name a few.
Proud Wellingtonians are known for their dress sense – just take a walk down colourful Cuba Street and you’ll soon see. Their love of eating, drinking, shopping, theatre, and gigs are just a few of the many reasons why this city seems to be constantly buzzing with activity.
Rediscovering Thorndon Quay: Where History Meets Modern Design
Tucked away but not to be overlooked, Thorndon Quay is a place worth wandering. Steeped in history and creativity, this corridor of the capital city boasts a unique blend of old and new – with a rich mix of contemporary design, heritage buildings, cosy eateries and eclectic boutiques ready to welcome you in.
The Heart of Thorndon Quay: Four Traders Who Have Stood the Test of Time
A walk down Thorndon Quay is a quick reminder of the strength, resilience and creativity of Wellington’s business community. Even as challenges have reshaped the area, a collection of beloved local businesses remain as an enduring anchor of the community. From handcrafted furniture and authentic French cuisine to vibrant textiles and personalised hairstyling, these enduring traders reflect the heart of the Quay – inviting visitors to explore, enjoy, and support the places that have long been part of its fabric.
Courtenay Creatives: The Best of Art, Style and Design in Wellington’s Courtenay Precinct
From tucked-away galleries to quirky boutiques, Wellington’s Courtenay Precinct is brimming with creativity. Whether you’re looking for original artwork, vintage oddities, or avant-garde fashion, there’s plenty to explore in this rich part of the capital city.
Dinner and a Show: Where to Eat, Drink, and Be Entertained in Wellington’s Courtenay Precinct
Courtenay Precinct is where Wellington’s nightlife and culture collide. Packed with theatres, cinemas, bars and restaurants, you’ll find top-notch spots to eat, drink, and be entertained – all within a few blocks. Here’s our guide to the perfect pairings for an evening well spent.
Explore our Directory
View AllThe Ram
Rubbing shoulders with Cuba Street institutions, The Ram is a classy, contemporary bistro that blends sophistication with an unmistakably laid-back Wellington vibe.
Toi Store at Pātaka
Gallery and museum gift shops are sometimes seen as a nice-to-have, a neat place to peruse some trinkets on the way out.
Kai Tahi
Porirua is well-known as a proud harbour city, with its glistening waters an indelible part of its social and aesthetic identity.
Get your Pocket Guide for Wellington
There's plenty to do in Wellington - so take a peek at our guide to discover the best places to eat, drink, shop, and more in New Zealand's capital city.
New Zealand Police Museum
Showcasing and immortalising a true institution of New Zealand society, the New Zealand Police Museum acts as a unique catalogue of this country’s history, drawing...
Shelly Bay Baker on Leeds Street
When the call of carbs rings out loudly in Wellington, follow the scent of freshly baked bread down Leeds Street and through the door of Shelly Bay Baker.
Glou Glou
Located inside Wellington’s iconic Exchange Building on Allen Street, Glou Glou is an upmarket casual cafe that is ultra sleek yet laid-back enough to warrant a daily...
La Bella Italia
Down an unassuming side street in industrial Petone, you’ll find La Bella Italia, Lower Hutt’s very own Little Italy.
Bellbird Eatery
Museum and art gallery cafes have really upped their game in recent years, evolving from simple refreshment pit stops to become attractions in their own right.
The Merry Go Round
Head to The Merry Go Round to find out why one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.
House of Good Fortune
Petone’s myriad side streets hold plenty of delightful surprises, and if you’re lucky enough, you might just stumble upon the House of Good Fortune.
Take Me Back Traders
Take a trip down memory lane at Take Me Back Traders, a family-run vintage and retro store that specialises in sourcing one-off treasures – from unique collectables to furniture and homeware.
Abandoned Taproom Petone
The upcycled furniture, the bike frame fence, and of course, the walls covered ceiling to floor in graffiti (literally, there’s writing on the ceiling).
Baylands Brewery
Based in Petone, Baylands Brewery and Taproom is a relaxed, welcoming space offering up a wide range of fresh beer and tasty food.
Seashore Cabaret
This café definitely takes out the title for best view of the city.
Whirinaki Whare Taonga
Whether it’s dinosaurs or the Mona Lisa, Whirinaki Whare Taonga is an arts centre that simply refuses to do boring.
