MARKETS

The Weta Cave

Part of the world famous Weta Workshop, The Weta Cave takes its visitors on a creative expedition. Life-sized replicas of some of Sir Peter Jackson’s fantasy creatures, a trove of Tolkien-esque props, an array of movie artefacts and a documentary screening are some of the things film buffs can relish in this artsy cavern. What’s even better is that this Miramar institution offers free access to the Weta Cave and its museum.

Te Papa

New Zealand’s national museum, Te Papa, is renowned for its remarkable collection of permanent and temporary exhibitions. Some of its long-term displays include the Awesome Forces, featuring seismic simulations and large-screen projections; Passport, which showcases migration stories from the country’s earliest settlers; and the Mountains to Sea exhibit, most famous for its colossal squid tank.

Wellington Museum

Housed in a lovely 1892 heritage building, the Wellington Museum tells the histories and stories of the city and its surrounds. It starts by transporting visitors to Wellington’s waterfront in the 1800s – a time when this humble venue was merely a cargo warehouse in Queens Wharf. Maritime artifacts, Maori treasures, and fantastical creations are other notable features to keep an eye out for.

Space Place at Carter Observatory

Part museum, part planetarium, Space Place’s star-studded mission is to educate the crowds about the southern skies and constellations. Multimedia exhibits, interactive galleries, and a special Maori astronomy section are some of the awesome experiences it provides. If you want to make your trip even more special, the Carter Observatory also offers the opportunity to adopt your own star.

Cable Car Museum

The Cable Car Museum is an ode to this local icon’s predecessors. It’s situated in the original winding house, which was operational from 1902 to 1978, and is set along two floors. The two original cars are on display, as is the very first winding machine room – the latter of which offers a fascinating insight into how the transport system was mechanically operated.

Nairn Street Cottage

This historic cottage-turned-museum is believed to be the oldest house in Wellington. The Nairn Street Cottage was built in 1858 by architect William Wallis, staying with his family for three generations before becoming a cultural landmark. Guided tours will take all visitors on a journey to New Zealand’s colonial past: from the inner workings of a typical household, to the Wallis family’s beautifully functional heritage garden.

The Holocaust Centre of New Zealand

The Holocaust Centre of New Zealand documents and relates the stories of Nazi persecution survivors who migrated to New Zealand. A strong emphasis is given to testimony and personal experience – displays make use of video interviews and written records, as well as ongoing research about the government’s response to the Holocaust. ‘Auschwitz to Aotearoa’ is one of the museum’s most recent exhibitions, depicting the lives of nine Jewish women (all from different countries) who made their way to New Zealand after surviving this notorious concentration camp.

The Dowse Art Museum

The Dowse Art Museum is the Lower Hutt’s gift to contemporary art. It has been around since the 1970s, housing one of New Zealand’s largest public artwork collections. More than 2,000 items are a part of this museum, which is also a dynamic events hub in its own right – a regular lineup of artist talks, exhibits, conferences and education events is always a given. After undergoing a major renovation in 2006, the Dowse Art Museum has also added to its displays an eclectic showcase of fashion creations, jewellery, ceramics and stonework.

MARKETS

Wellington Underground Market

The Wellington Underground Market is a culmination of everything that makes the capital city shine. Every Saturday from 10:00am until 4:00pm, local artists, designers, performers, coffee sellers and food vendors come together to liven up Frank Kitts Park and Jervois Quay. The Underground Market comes in many variations, including an annual Christmas Market, a handful of two-day Showcase Weekends and the seasonal Pop Up Village.

Wellington Night Market

Street performances, a melting pot of different foods, and plenty of energy – if you’re looking for a awesome spot to hang out on a Friday or Saturday night, Cuba Street’s Wellington Night Market is the place to visit. Asian cuisine features prominently along its stalls – though you can also find treats like churros and waffles too. Both night markets run from 5pm to 10pm, making them the perfect stopover for a quick bite to eat before hitting the town.

The Harbourside Market

A classic in every sense of the word, the Harbourside Market has been filling the Wellington waterfront with fresh produce and assorted food stalls since 1920. Along with being the oldest farmers market in the city, it is one of the most popular too. It runs every Sunday morning, from 7:00am to 2:00pm in summer and from 7:00am to 1:00pm in winter.

Capital Market

This undercover food market is located right in the midst of Wellington’s commercial district. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, savoury, hearty or light, you’re bound to get your foodie fix with this market’s incredibly diverse offerings. Just about every type of cuisine, from Asian to European is accounted for – and the Capital Market is also known for being quite budget-friendly.

Thorndon Farmers Market

Rain, hail or shine, the Thorndon Farmers Market is a great place to grab some local produce while getting a glimpse of life in the Wellington suburbs. Organic products, gluten free goodies, artisan hauls, and plenty of sustainable products are some of this vibrant markets’ strongest features. You’ll find the Thorndon Farmers’ Market by the Cathedral of St Paul’s car park, every Saturday from 8:30am until 2:30pm.

The Vegan Vault Night Market

A newcomer in the Wellington market scene and definitely one to watch. The Vegan Vault set up its first installation in April 2017, and were amazed to find that 2,000 people turned up to support them. Due to popular demand, organisers even expanded the number of stalls, from the initial 12 to 23. The monthly event was established by the owner of the Sweet Release Cakes and Treats cafe, so that vegans can join in on Wellington’s bustling market action.

Tawa Pop-up Market

A monthly pop-up market that specialises in all things arty and crafty. Find this little gem close to New World atrium, and get ready to be feast your eyes on an amazing collection of handcrafted jewellery, artisan soaps, and lovely knitted items. The Tawa Popup was created by two local mums who wanted to showcase the wonderful craft and design to come out of Wellington’s northeastern suburbs.

Craft Central

A yearly pop-up market on the Miramar peninsula that has been supporting local talent since 2013. Along with vibrant stalls, Craft Central keeps the community spirit alive by hosting creative activities that both children and adults alike can get into. Some of the items you can expect to find on a typical Craft Central event include beauty products, childrenswear, home decor, gifts, and jewellery.

PARKS

Wellington’s Central Park

Within walking distance of downtown Wellington you’ll find the popular, aptly-named Central Park. Locals and visitors alike love the park’s mix of gardens, playgrounds, grassy fields, natural woodland and native bush. Its vegetation includes deciduous trees, pines, eucalyptus trees, and an array of native species.

The Botanic Garden

The Wellington Botanic Garden showcases a wide range of flowers, trees, succulents and plant life from New Zealand and the world. The oldest tree in the garden, a gnarled hīnau, is more than 200 years old – and there are others in their collection that date as far back as the 1860s. Also on the list of captivating attractions are the Peace Garden, the Begonia House, the Lady Norwood Rose Garden, and the Carter Observatory.

Truby King Park

A historic house, garden, park and mausoleum are confined in this one space. The Truby King Park is actually a heritage estate. It used to be the home of Sir Frederic Truby King and Lady Isabella Truby King, who are renowned for founding the Plunket Society. Along with being a pioneer in children’s healthcare, Sir Truby King was quite a keen gardener – he’s very much to thank for the collection of plants and flowers that visitors can freely access today.

Mount Victoria

Mount Victoria is probably the most renowned summits in the region. Its eastern location, not too far away from the Wellington central, makes it a popular spot for locals and tourists wanting to glimpse of the spectacular views. Mount Victoria’s walking and cycling tracks are brimming with pine trees and greenery to admire too.

Otari-Wilton’s Bush

Also known as the Otari Native Botanic Garden and Wilton’s Bush Reserve, this is the only public garden in New Zealand that is entirely dedicated to native plant life. Entry is free for all visitors, who will be able to view some of Wellington’s oldest trees (one of which is 800 years old) as well as 100 hectares’ worth of forest. Because of its rich, native collection, Otari-Wilton’s Bush is classified as a Garden of International Significance by the New Zealand Gardening Trust.

George Denton Park and Polhill Reserve

Part of the Wellington Town Belt, George Denton Park and Polhill Reserve come together to bring visitors a place to unwind and/or get active. The area comprises numerous hiking and cycling tracks, a flowing stream, picnic spots, grassed areas and a playground. If you’re a bit of a war history buff, the Polhill Reserve is within walking distance of Wellington’s anti-aircraft World War II gun emplacements.

Stellin Memorial Park

This park is a memorial to World World II airman James Stellin, who died in France as he struggled to avoid crashing his fighter plane into a local village. Along with its interesting history, the Stellin Memorial Park has a steep, grassed walkway leading visitors to its lookout. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with an idyllic 180 degree perspective of the Wellington harbour.