Wellington Hotels

Where to stay in Wellington

Central Wellington

Central Wellington is the bustling heart of New Zealand's capital, offering a vibrant mix of culture, dining, and entertainment. Staying here means having the city's attractions right at your doorstep—perfect for those who love to be in the midst of the action.

• Benefits of staying in the heart of the city: Convenience is key. With museums, theatres, and a thriving culinary scene all within walking distance, you'll never be short of things to do. Plus, with excellent public transport links, exploring further afield is a breeze.

• Popular hotel options in central Wellington: From luxurious high-rises to quirky boutique stays, central Wellington has it all. Whether you're looking for upscale comfort or a cosy nook with character, this area delivers.

Wellington waterfront

The Wellington waterfront is a stunning locale, offering sweeping harbour views and easy access to the city's vibrant nightlife and dining options. It's a top pick for those wanting a mix of relaxation and recreation.

• Highlights of waterfront accommodations: Wake up to the sound of waves and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic promenades. The waterfront is ideal for those who appreciate a picturesque setting coupled with urban conveniences.

• Proximity to attractions and dining: Just steps away from the water, you'll find a plethora of restaurants, bars, and cultural venues. Whether it's a gourmet meal or a casual bite, the waterfront won't disappoint.

• Top-rated waterfront hotels: Expect a range of accommodations from chic, modern hotels to more intimate lodgings, all boasting fantastic views and top-notch amenities.

Cuba Street area

Known for its bohemian charm, the Cuba Street area is the beating heart of Wellington's arts and alternative scenes. It's the perfect spot for those who enjoy quirky cafes, eclectic shops, and lively street performances.

• Vibe and attractions of Cuba Street: The area is buzzing with creative energy, offering everything from vintage boutiques to contemporary art galleries. It's a haven for culture vultures and those seeking something a bit different.

• Unique hotel experiences in the area: Accommodations here often reflect the area's unique character, offering artistic décor and a sense of individuality. Expect the unexpected and enjoy a truly memorable stay.

• Recommended hotels near Cuba Street: Visitors can choose from a variety of boutique hotels that offer stylish, comfortable stays with a personal touch.

Te Aro district

Te Aro is the epicentre of Wellington's vibrant arts and culture scene. This district is a hub of creativity, boasting numerous galleries, theatres, and live music venues.

• Arts and culture focus in Te Aro: With its rich cultural offerings, Te Aro is a paradise for art enthusiasts. The district is alive with exhibitions, performances, and festivals throughout the year.

• Boutique hotel options in Te Aro: Te Aro's accommodations reflect its artistic spirit, offering boutique stays that combine elegance with a touch of whimsy. Perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.

• Best picks for accommodation in Te Aro: Choose from a selection of stylish boutique hotels that offer intimate settings and personalised service, all within walking distance of the area's cultural hotspots.

Near Wellington Botanic Garden

For those seeking a more tranquil stay, the area near Wellington Botanic Garden offers a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. It's an ideal spot for nature lovers and those looking to unwind.

• Peaceful retreats near the garden: Enjoy the serenity of lush greenery and beautifully landscaped grounds. The area offers a relaxing escape with easy access to the city.

• Hotels with garden views: Accommodations here often boast stunning views of the gardens, providing a calming backdrop for your stay. It's perfect for those who appreciate nature's tranquillity.

• Accessibility to local landmarks: Besides the gardens, the area is conveniently located near other attractions, making it an excellent base for exploring Wellington's natural and cultural sights.

Oriental Bay

Oriental Bay is Wellington's answer to a beachside paradise, offering golden sands and sparkling waters right in the city. It's a favourite for sun-seekers and those who enjoy a leisurely beach vibe.

• Beachfront hotels and their amenities: Enjoy beachfront stays where you can soak up the sun and indulge in waterside dining. Many hotels offer fantastic amenities, including pools and beach access.

• Ideal for sun-seekers and beach lovers: With its beautiful beach and lively promenade, Oriental Bay is perfect for those who love sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying a beachside stroll.

• Family-friendly hotel options: Offering a range of accommodations suitable for families, Oriental Bay ensures that everyone, from toddlers to grandparents, has a memorable stay.

Near Wellington Zoo

For families looking to keep the little ones entertained, staying near Wellington Zoo is a fantastic choice. It's not only convenient for zoo visits but also close to other family-friendly attractions.

• Hotels close to family attractions: With proximity to the zoo and other kid-friendly spots, this area is a hit with families. You'll find accommodations that cater specifically to the needs of those travelling with children.

• Convenient stays for zoo visits: Enjoy the convenience of being just a stone's throw away from the zoo, making it easy to plan a fun-filled day without the hassle of lengthy travel.

• Best family accommodation options: Choose from a variety of family-friendly hotels that offer spacious rooms, kid-friendly amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.

Views

Get a 360o view of the city and harbour, and a great photo opportunity at the Mount Victoria Lookout. You can drive all the way up or walk through the town, then sit on the grass as the sun goes down and the lights come up. Bliss.

The Cable Car is a Wellington icon and runs from Lambton Quay up to Kelburn, where at the top you'll discover the Cable Car Museum and Carter Observatory. With interactive displays, a state-of-the-art digital planetarium and historic telescopes, it's an amazing way to view the stars.

Movies

Get a glimpse into the imagination and artistry behind some of the world's most spectacular movies at the Weta Cave mini-museum, or discover The Lord of the Rings on the location tour.

Museum

The national museum of New Zealand, Te Papa, is fascinating and fun for curious minds of any age, and even better, it's free. The innovative and interactive exhibits tell stories of New Zealand's unique geological, biological, cultural and social history in new and exciting ways.

Zoo

If you've ever wanted to hand feed a lion or stroke a cheetah's fur, you can do this at Wellington Zoo, the ‘best little zoo in the world'. Book a Close Encounter for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, or simply enjoy more than 100 species of animals, such as Tasmanian Devils and ASB Malayan Sun Bears, the only bears native to New Zealand.

New Zealand life

Wellington's waterfront is dotted with cafés, parks, sculpture, bars, ice cream vendors and hundreds of walking, jogging, skating and cycling Wellingtonians! For a swim or sunbathe, head for Oriental Bay Beach.

Cuba Street is a bohemian haven with some of the city's most colourful shops, bars and cafés. Street entertainers might paint the street, play percussive guitar or play with fire. A wonderful place to soak up some atmosphere.

Bars, restaurants and cafés

Wellington is said to have more bars and restaurants per person than New York, and is also known as the craft beer capital. With vineyards just up the road and world-renowned coffee, it has all the ingredients of a true culinary capital.

Havana Bar on Wigan Street really is the pick of the crop, if you are looking for a few drinks, a meal and a long, relaxed evening in delightful surroundings. The Cuban-themed bar and restaurant is located in two beautiful old Wellington cottages, providing an ideal escape from everyday life. The bar has a wide range of beer, wines and spirits, both Cuban and otherwise, and the restaurant serves Spanish-inspired tapas and a changing weekly menu. With live music and DJs on most days, it's surely the ideal restaurant, in an idyllic city.