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.
Key Ingredients to Wellington Hospitality with Cosmo
Few people know Wellington hospitality as intimately as Cosmo Hawke, owner of iconic bars Ascot and Regent and co-founder of Fruit Cru, an organic fruit winery.
The Ultimate Wellington Coffee & Treat Trail
Wellington's love affair with coffee is no secret - it’s a city built on strong brews, passionate baristas, and cabinets full of temptations you can’t say no to.
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.
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that was then, this is now.
Walking through the doors of that was then, this is now feels a bit like stepping into a perfectly distilled version of Cuba Street’s spirit: textured, effortlessly...
Sketchbook Coffee
At Wellington’s Sketchbook Coffee, things don’t need to be complicated to be great - they just need to be done with heart.
Three Rabbits Tattoo
Just a stone’s throw from the noise and busyness of Courtenay Place lies Three Rabbits Tattoo, an intimate, creative sanctuary where every detail has been thoughtfully...
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.
Völco Egmont Street
Völco’s latest outpost is a warm, welcoming addition to Wellington that takes over the former site of the much-loved Egmont Street Deli & Diner.
Damascus
With a menu that reads like a love letter to Syrian cooking, Damascus, found in the heart of Wellington, is a place where all are warmly invited to delight in the food from...
Hei
From the creator of that Wellington institution KC Cafe comes Hei, a refreshingly contemporary take on Chinese cuisine.
Cuba St Tavern
A fresh, funky tribute to Wellington’s most iconic street, Cuba St Tavern is a celebration of everything that makes the capital’s hospo scene one of the most...
Le Ciel
A true labour of love, Le Ciel is a plucky little bakery that brings tastes and techniques from around the world right to the heart of Wellington’s Tory Street.
Sully's
Clothing stores abound in Wellington, but Sully’s is one of those that feels like a breath of fresh air the moment you walk in.
Eva's Garage
Who knew you could fit so much into a garage? Wellington’s Eva’s Garage isn’t your average coffee stop - it’s a one-of-a-kind inner-city escape built...
Shelly Bay Baker on Karori Road
Having long been a household name in Wellington, the opening of Shelly Bay Baker’s Karori branch means New Zealand’s largest suburb now has easy access to some...
Wonderland Chocolate
Evoking the spirit of a long-lost local amusement park, Wonderland Chocolate brings something truly magical to Wellington’s Lyall Bay and beyond: plant-based vegan...
The 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.
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...
