Wellington 4 Day Itinerary

Wellington 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the City Center and Iconic Landmarks

Morning:

  • Check-in at your accommodation (recommended: QT Museum Wellington or Hotel Waterfront Auckland)
  • Breakfast at Cafe L’affare, a popular local spot with excellent coffee and breakfast options.
  • Visit the Wellington Museum to learn about New Zealand’s history and culture.

Afternoon:

  • Stroll along Lambton Quay, the city’s main thoroughfare, filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
  • Take a cable car up to Kelburn Park and enjoy panoramic views of Wellington from the Lookout.
  • Visit the National Library and the National Archives of New Zealand.

Evening:

  • Dinner at Logan Brown, offering contemporary New Zealand cuisine in a historic villa setting.
  • Enjoy drinks and live music at Fidel’s Café or Garage Project, a local brewery.

Day 2: Cultural Experiences

Morning:

  • Breakfast at Floriditas, known for its pancakes and eggs benedict.
  • Visit Te Papa Tongarewa Museum of New Zealand to explore Maori and Pacific Island cultures.
  • Stroll along the waterfront, admiring the sculptures and enjoying the views.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Hippopotamus, a restaurant offering a mix of Asian and Mediterranean cuisine.
  • Visit the City Gallery Wellington to see contemporary art exhibitions.
  • Take a stroll through Cuba Street, known for its vibrant street art, independent shops, and cafes.

Evening:

  • Dinner at Ortega Fish Shack & Bar, offering fresh seafood in a casual setting.
  • Catch a comedy show at the Fringe Bar or a live performance at The Opera House.

Day 3: Nature and Outdoor Activities

Morning:

  • Breakfast at Monmouth Coffee for a delicious flat white and breakfast pastry.
  • Take the East Harbour Train to Karakatu/Wellington Zoo, home to over 150 native and exotic animals.
  • Visit the Botanic Garden and explore the Fernery, Tharfield Rose Garden, and Hebe Garden.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Harbourside Market, offering a variety of food options in a vibrant setting.
  • Take a scenic walk along the coastal path from Seatoun to Scorching Bay Beach.

Evening:

  • Dinner at The Grove, a restaurant that showcases New Zealand’s regional produce.
  • Watch the sunset at Red Rocks Reserve and enjoy the views of Wellington Harbour.

Day 4: Day Trip to Wairarapa

Morning:

  • Take the InterCity Coachline to Martinborough, a charming wine village in Wairarapa (approx. 1 hour drive).
  • Visit vineyards such as Ata Rangi, Martinborough Vineyard, and Murdoch James Estate for tastings and lunch.

Afternoon:

  • Return to Wellington and visit the Cable Car Museum, located underground beneath the Kelburn Terminus.
  • Take a final stroll along Oriental Bay Beach before dinner.

Evening:

  • Farewell dinner at The Crab Shack, offering fresh seafood in a relaxed setting with stunning views of the harbour.

Things to Know:

  1. Wellington’s weather is unpredictable; pack layers and a waterproof jacket.
  2. Most attractions are accessible by foot or public transport (buses and cable cars).
  3. The New Zealand dollar is the official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have some cash on hand.
  4. Wellington has a vibrant nightlife with many bars, clubs, and live music venues.
  5. Maori and English are the official languages, but most people speak English.

Tips:

  1. Purchase a Wellington Welcome Pass for discounted entry to attractions and free public transport.
  2. Visit on a Thursday evening to experience the Thursdays at Te Papa event, which features live music, performances, and food trucks.
  3. Take a guided tour of the Beehive and Parliament Buildings to learn about New Zealand’s political system.