day tours wellington

Wellington Day Tours

Wellington is New Zealand’s capital city and the southernmost city in the North Island. Surrounded by hilly terrain and with a stunning natural harbour, the city offers plenty of things to see and do for families and independent travellers alike. Natural attractions in Wellington include Mount Victoria, the Botanic Gardens (best accessed by Wellington’s iconic Cable Car) and Zealandia native wildlife sanctuary. Wellington is also home to Te Papa, the national museum and art gallery. Situated on the waterfront, Te Papa has several floors of fun hands-on exhibits that show off New Zealand’s natural, cultural and social history, as well as hosting international exhibitions.

The ‘capital of cool’, Wellington combines big city culture with small-town charm. Its compact city centre means most attractions are within walking distance. There are shopping and dining options for every budget in the Cuba Mall precinct and along Lambton Quay. Foodies and craft beer devotees will find themselves in paradise, especially in August each year during the annual ‘Welly on a Plate’ food festival.

For film buffs and Lord of the Rings fans, Wellington is a must-visit as it’s the home of the famous Weta Workshop, where Sir Peter Jackson and his team created fantastic special effects, costumes and props for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies, as well as many other well-known films.

4 Day Tours to experience

Wellington City and Bays Tour - Morning

• 3 Hour Tour
• Wellington City Highlights

from $ 55 NZD

Wellington City and Bays Tour - Afternoon

Weta Workshop 'There and Back Again' Tour (10.30am)

• 2 hours 30 minutes
• Half Day Tour
• Includes exclusive film

from $ 68 NZD

Weta Workshop 'There and Back Again' Tour (1.30pm)

• See artists at work

Free cancellation

You'll receive a full refund if you cancel at least 2 hours in advance of your tour experience.

New Zealand Tours

• City Sightseeing
• Nature & Wildlife
• Lord of the Rings
• Dolphin Watching
• Food & Wine
• Glowworm Cave
• Flightseeing
• Tours from Auckland
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Destinations

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• Rotorua Tours
• Waitomo Tours
• Hobbiton Tours
• Wellington Tours
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• West Coast Tours
• Milford Sound Tours

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Wellington Tours

Quick Details

• User Ages: All ages
• Hour Glass Duration: Full Day , Half Day

Sun Tours run in all weather

Wheelchair Fold-Up Wheelchair Accessible!

Experience the best of Wellington with our guided tour!

Visiting Wellington? Let us show you around! Our local guides will take you to some of the most beautiful and historic spots in the city. Check out our half and full day itineraries below to plan your day of fun. Book your Wellington tours with us online today!

Tour Options

• Chevron down See Half Day Itinerary - 3.5 Hours

Picturesque and unforgettably beautiful

➜ Wellington is nestled around a sparkling bustling harbour with residential housing extending up the sides of green valley hills. Voted the most liveable city in the world in 2017 and 2018, you will not be disappointed with your tour of our lovely city.

➜ This tour will delight you with breath-taking scenic views and photo opportunities, along with the fun of experiencing first-hand some of our favourite tourist attractions. You will be picked up from your meeting point and we will continue downtown past Te Papa and the QT hotel, seeing St Gerard’s church and monastery before we drive up to the top of Mount Victoria to see spectacular views of Wellington’s city and harbour. Have your cameras ready!

➜ We now drive to Lyall Bay beach, pass Wellington airport and see some of the rugged coast line. On a clear day you may see some spectacular views of the South Island. We pass Barrett’s Reef, where on 10 April 1968 the roll on/roll off ferry Wahine hit the reef and capsized near Seatoun (just a short distance from the shoreline) during a hurricane resulting in 52 lives being lost.

➜ It is time to drive to the Wellington sign on our way to Weta Studios on the Miramar Peninsula for your Lord of the Rings experience with a short visit to Weta Cave where you will have a chance to purchase Lord of the Rings memorabilia (for any Tolkein fans) and more photo opportunities. Continuing around the coastline, passing popular Oriental Bay before we venture through the different parts of the inner city ending up at the bottom of the iconic Wellington cable car (which first carried passengers in 1902).

➜ After you have travelled to the top in the cable car and visited the quaint museum at that end, you will have more breath-taking panoramic views of the harbour and city. Then we drive pass the lovely Botanic Gardens and drive through the Lady Norwood Rose Garden, before seeing Parliament Buildings and its grounds and finally Old St Paul’s Cathedral – one of the world’s best examples of Gothic Revival architecture.

➜ You are then dropped off wherever you wish within the city centre to take with you lasting fond memories of your visit to Wellington.

✅ Downtown entertainment area of Wellington ✅ Mt Victoria ✅ Rugged Coastline ✅ Weta Cave ✅ Cable Car ✅ Botanic Gardens ✅ Lady Norwood Rose Gardens ✅ Parliament Grounds ✅ Old St Pauls

• Chevron down See Full Day Itinerary - 6.5 Hours

Uncover the vibrant heartbeat of Wellington

➜ Picturesque and unforgettably beautiful, Wellington is nestled around a sparkling bustling harbour with residential housing extending up the sides of green valley hills. Voted the most liveable city in the world in 2017 and 2018, you will not be disappointed with your tour of our lovely city.

➜ This tour will delight you with breath-taking scenic views and photo opportunities, along with the fun of experiencing first-hand some of our favourite tourist attractions.

➜ You will be picked up from your meeting point and we will continue downtown past Te Papa and the QT hotel, seeing St Gerard’s church and monastery before we drive up to the top of Mount Victoria to see spectacular views of Wellington’s city and harbour. Have your cameras ready!

➜ Our tour then moves away from the city and takes us to the Italian fishing area hugging the rugged coastline of Island Bay. We will stop at a museum in Owhiro Bay which displays some interesting history about the Wellington southern coastline.

➜ It is time to drive to Weta Studios on the Miramar Peninsula for your Lord of the Rings experience and Weta Workshop tour, where Weta Workshop guides will have many interesting surprises in store for you around the making of the Lord of the Rings and other films. You will also have a chance to purchase Lord of the Rings memorabilia (for any Tolkein fans) and more photo opportunities outside.

➜ At the conclusion of your Weta Workshop tour we have a table reserved at the popular local seaside cafe, where you can relax and enjoy some local kiwi cuisine from the menu.

➜ After lunch we will continue further around the coastline, passing Peter Jackson’s house pass the local Wahine monument, where 52 people lost their lives on 10 April 1968 when the roll on/roll off ferry Wahine capsized after hitting Barrett’s Reef during a hurricane.

➜ Continuing around the coastline, passing popular Oriental Bay before we venture through the different parts of the inner city, ending up at the bottom of the iconic Wellington cable car (which first carried passengers in 1902).

➜ After you have travelled to the top in the cable car and visited the quaint museum at that end, you will have more breath-taking panoramic views of the harbour and city. Then it is an easy stroll through the lovely Botanic and Lady Norwood Rose Gardens, before seeing Parliament Buildings and visiting Old St Paul’s Cathedral – one of the world’s best examples of Gothic Revival architecture.

➜ You are then dropped off wherever you wish within the city centre and we know you will take with you lasting fond memories of your visit to Wellington.

✅ Downtown entertainment area ✅ Mt Victoria ✅ Rugged Coastline ✅ Museum of Wellington Southern Coastline ✅ Weta Cave ✅ Tour of Weta Studios ✅ Lunch (not included in price) ✅ Cable Car ✅ Botanic Gardens ✅ Lady Norwood Rose Gardens ✅ Parliament Grounds ✅ Old St Pauls

Tour timings & pick-ups

Non-Cruise Ship Passenger bookings: Pick up times are as per the tour starting time. However they may be altered if there are multiple guest pick-up locations. We will contact you in advance of your tour if an amended pick-up time is required. All tours include a pick-up either from a central city hotel or from the Wellington iSite.

Cruise Ship Passenger bookings: Your pick-up will be from the Port and is 45 minutes after the ship has docked (even if your ship has been delayed or arrives early) with 8.45am being the earliest pick-up time.

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This Lord of the Rings tour in Wellington is more than just visiting the filming sites! On this informative tour, your guide will share fascinating little-known gems relating to the filming at each site that will make you want to watch the films all over again! Book online.

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Martinborough is a popular destination approximately one hour’s drive from Wellington City. It is characterised by quaint little towns dotted between rolling fields of sheep, olives and grapes.

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Day Tour of Wellington – Local for a Day

Stunning views of Wellington from the Mount Victoria lookout – one of our first stops before COFFEE!

Your Tour Leader is World Traveller & Entrepreneur Jerry Bridge 

Book this unique personal day tour of Wellington with entrepreneur and world traveller Jerry Bridge. All major Wellington attractions are included. Even though Jerry was born and raised in the UK, he’s passionate about his new ‘home city’. Much is made of New Zealand’s sublime scenery, and quite rightly so, but there’s so much more to enjoy. Beautiful Wellington, acclaimed by Lonely Planet as ‘the coolest little capital in the world’ in 2011, is one of Jerry’s all-time favourite destinations.  For Jerry, showing other like-minded travellers the best things to do in Wellington is an absolute pleasure!

Enjoy the Weta cave and workshop experience – but be careful of those creatures…!

Please  click here   for a more detailed over view of what to expect on Jerry’s day tour of Wellington.

Sightseeing highlights include most of the main Wellington attractions. To start with, you will travel up to Mount Victoria lookout point via Oriental Bay. Depending on the weather, your mid morning coffee stop will either be at Maranui surf club cafe or the Chocolate Fish Cafe . Next up you will enjoy a short video about the history of  Weta Workshop and filming studios. There is also a wonderful souvenir shop at the Weta Cave and plenty of photo opportunities. After lunch you will visit New Zealand’s top museum, Te Papa and take a brief stroll along the harbour water front. The tour ends with the classic Wellington Cable Car experience and walk through the botanical gardens.

Tour timings and costs

The tour last for approximately 7 hours and is completely flexible if the weather is not so good. Cost per person for one of Jerry’s full day tour of Wellington is NZD110 – with a maximum of three people. Half day tours also available on request. Lunch is at your own expense but morning coffee and afternoon tea is included. The cost of the Wellington Cable Car will be additional although Jerry will have purchased the tickets in advance to avoid queuing up. Please advise if there are four or more of you wishing to take Jerry’s unique and highly personal Wellington day tour, as this can also be arranged.

For enquiries & bookings please contact Jerry Bridge directly.

Ok, so this is taken at Wellington Zoo, not a normal destination on Jerry’s day tour, but if you want to go he’ll take you!

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Wellington Tours & Activities

The capital of New Zealand, Wellington is the home to our Government, the Supreme Court, and our Parliament buildings. Though this beautiful coastal city bustles with many activities, cultural centers and attractions, the surrounding areas of Wellington also feature some fantastic destinations for travelers. Join a half-day tour of the city which includes many iconic sights such as the Beehive and Mount Victoria. If you’re a movie buff, then a visit to the world-famous Weta Workshop and the Lord Of The Ring’s film set locations is a must. For those who want to explore outside of the city, then we also offer some tours to Martinborough for wine tasting as well as full-day tour to Palliser Bay.

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Wellington  Wairarapa  Kāpiti   

An experience to remember.

Welcome to Talk of the Town Tours. We offer half and full day tours around the Wellington, Wairarapa and Kapiti regions. We are locally-owned and go the extra mile to offer you the best guided tours of the coolest little capital in the world. Choose what you want to do and join Brian for an interesting, fun and memorable trip. From the magic of Peter Jackson's Weta Cave to the vineyards of Martinborough and beyond, we have a tour to suit your timetable and interests. 

Wellington City Half Day Tour

Wellington - The 4 Cities Full Day Tour 

(includes , wellington city, hutt valley, upper hutt, porirua - plimmerton).

Martinborough Full Day Wine Tour

Wellington - Hutt Valley Half Day Tour

Kapiti Coast See & Do Tour  6 hours

Wairarapa Lighthouse & Wine Tour  - Full Day

I ncludes wairapapa coast, seal colony and martinborough vineyards).

Is your group looking for the best things to do in Wellington?  On one of our private tours you can see them all.  Contact us on [email protected] today!

Martinborough gourmet wine tour, sightsee wellington, palliser bay - seals & coastal fun, group bookings.

Is your group looking for the best things to do in Wellington? 

On a Hammonds Wellington private tour you can see them all. 

We'll take you to Wellington’s top spots; you can drink some of Martinborough’s finest wine and view Palliser Bay’s cutest seals. 

Love Nature? We partner with Zealandia. Film buff? Check out Weta Workshop with us.  Enjoy history? Discover our national Museum, Te Papa. All while having fun with your local kiwi guide.

Proudly part of The Tranzit Group

Explore Wellington in your native language.

"Family run half day tour was brilliant. We saw important sights in Wellington including Old St Pauls Church, The Botanic Gardens, Mt Victoria lookout, and a ride in the Cable Car. A knowledgeable friendly guide & an excellent operation. " - Tripadvisor Member

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• Wellington, New ... Wellington, New Zealand
• Wellington Half-... Wellington Half-Day Tour with Entrance Fees, Transfers, Cable Car Ride & Morning Tea

Wellington Half-Day Tour with Entrance Fees, Transfers, Cable Car Ride & Morning Tea

Journey into the picturesque landscapes of Wellington with this half-day tour. You’ll be transported seamlessly to your first stop at Mt Victoria for panoramic views of the city and harbour before heading to Peter Jackson's Weta Cave. Enjoy browsing the museum of mini replicas and artefacts from the acclaimed director's movies and perhaps pick up a keepsake from the gift shop. Reboard your bus and follow the coastline to Red Rocks, and then continue into the city to enjoy a cable car ride to take you to the Botanical Gardens where you can wander through the Lady Norwood Rose Gardens. Finish your tour with a visit to the Beehive and Parliament buildings, as well as Old St Paul's Church.

• Valid for one person as part of a group booking (2–12 people), one adult (15+), one child (5–14) or one infant (0–4)
• 3.5-hour Wellington tour
• Entrance fees
• Delicious morning tea
• Lookout from Mt Victoria for views of the city and harbour
• Visit Weta Cave shop and museum
• Admire the fascinating formations of the Red Rocks
• Enjoy a cable car ride
• Visit the Botanical Gardens and see the Lady Norwood Rose Garden
• See the Beehive and Parliament buildings, as well as Old St Paul's Church
• Available every day: 9.30am or 1pm
• Pick-up and drop-off from Wellington CBD accommodation
• Bookings valid to 30 June 2024

Pricing & availability

Things to know.

Things don’t always work out, so enjoy peace of mind knowing that the following cancellation options are available to you.

• From 2 days before your chosen date, onwards - Non-refundable
• Up to 7 days after purchase (and at least 2 days before your chosen date) - 100%

Cancellations

If a cancellation is made with more than two days' notice before the tour commences, a full refund will be given. If the cancellation occurs within 48 hours of the tour date, a 50% refund will be paid.

Changes to Booking

48 hours' notice is required to change a booking you have made

• Umbrellas will be provided, if required

Availability:

• Not valid: Christmas Day
• Tours will continue as planned 'rain or shine'. Every endeavour will be made to keep to the tour schedule, however adjustments may be necessary due to road or weather conditions outside of Capital Personalised Tours' control
• Itinerary and stops are subject to change
• For a full list of frequently asked questions, click here

Please Note:

• Bookings for this offer are limited and subject to availability. Not valid with any other offer
• Entire value must be used in one visit; any unused portions will be forfeited, and cannot be used at a later date
• The destination you are travelling to may have health, insurance and vaccination requirements in place. Please ensure you stay up to date with any requirements prior to your visit
• We reserve the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Full terms and conditions are located on the terms and conditions page of our website

Capital Personalised Tours

Let Capital Personalised Tours take away any transport worries and take you to the best places to see. Be hosted by professional guides on a Wellington sightseeing tour that will take you to the best views from the hills and the harbour, to Lord of the Rings locations and so much more. With tours of Kapiti and over the hill for a Wairarapa winery experience and city foodie tours too, see the gastronomic side of Wellington on an unforgettable tour.

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One Day in Wellington: City Walking Tour Itinerary

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, how to spend 24 hours in wellington and see the best sights on foot.

If you’re a traveller that likes to make every moment count on your trip, then this Wellington city itinerary is for you! While you might not have time to spend more than one day in Wellington, you can still see all the major Wellington city centre highlights by following this one day in Wellington itinerary. What’s more, all these sights can be seen on foot and all the activities listed are either free or extremely cheap!

This walking tour itinerary of Wellington in one day will take you on a loop walk around the city starting and ending at Te Papa Museum. The itinerary mixes a culture, food, scenery and more. However, if you do have more time in Wellington, be sure to check out our 10 Wellington Must-Dos or visit some more museums using our list of 12 Free Art Galleries & Museums in Wellington . Plus, find a place to stay in  The 50 Best Accommodations in Wellington .

Sights of this One Day in Wellington City itinerary

Here, we’ll breakdown the sights you will be seeing on this one day in Wellington itinerary.

• Te Papa Museum – New Zealand’s national museum
• Oriental Parade – A popular and picturesque seaside suburb
• Mt Victoria – Capture the best views of the city
• Courtenay Place & Cuba Street – The two main streets of Wellington packed with great shops and eateries
• The Beehive – New Zealand Parliament Buildings have interesting architecture and free guided tours
• Wellington Botanic Garden – Step into nature with bush walks, gardens and more
• Cable Car – Take the iconic and historic Cable Car back into the city
• Wellington Waterfront – A great place to take a walk, see the city sculptures, and return to Te Papa Museum.

Start at the Te Papa Museum

A great place to start one day in Wellington city is at Te Papa Museum. Not only is it surrounded by car parks, great if you have your own vehicle, but Te Papa is pretty central, making it easy to get to from most city centre accommodations, bus stop and train station.

Get a great insight into New Zealand’s social and natural history at Te Papa Museum. This bold and innovative museum is packed with interactive exhibitions. Plus, entry is free! The museum is open 10am-6pm (9pm on Thursdays). Learn more about it in our 10 Reasons Why The Te Papa Museum is Simply Unmissable .

Walk Along Oriental Parade

From Te Papa, walk east along the waterfront for about 10 minutes and you’ll reach the sandy shores of Oriental Parade. Look out to sea and luckily you’ll see the water fountain in action just off the coast.

Oriental Parade is also a good place to grab a coffee or a bite to eat at one of the cafes, which are a little less busy than those in the city centre of Wellington. It will also fuel you for the next part of our Wellington walking tour itinerary!

Climb Mt Victoria

Mt Victoria offers amazing panoramic views of the city. Plus, if you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, Mt Victoria was one of the filming locations. Check out exactly where in our Guide to The Lord of the Rings in Wellington .

From Oriental Parade, take Oriental Terrace all the way to the end where you’ll find a short winding uphill footpath through the trees. This leads onto Moeller Street which you continue following until you see the signs for the Mt Victoria Lookout Walkway & the Southern Walkway. From here, it will take you about 25 minutes walk to reach the lookout!

Discover Courtenay Place and Cuba Street

Next stop is the bustling city centre streets of Wellington City packed with bars, eateries, cafes and more! It’s a great place to stop for lunch and get a sense for the Wellington city culture.

From Mt Victoria, walk down the Lookout Walkway and instead of heading back down toward Oriental Parade, make your way toward Majoribanks Street. Following Majoribanks Street all the way west will lead you onto Courtenay Place. Look out for the sci-fi sculpture called Tripod at the entrance of Courtenay Place, made by Wellington’s own movie special effects and props team, Weta Workshop.

At the western end of Courtenay Place, either turn on Dixon Street or Manners Street and you will quickly meet up with Wellington’s quirky Cuba Street. Head south on Cuba Street to see the Bucket Fountain, an interesting piece of kinetic art. There are lots of alternative shops and eateries along this street so enjoy! Check out our Cheap Eats in Wellington for the best value-for-money restaurants.

Check Out the Beehive and New Zealand Parliament Buildings

The New Zealand Parliament Buildings and The Beehive are among some of the most impressive architecture in Wellington, so it’s at least worth seeing the buildings from the outside. If you do have time, take the free New Zealand Parliament Tour to learn more about the New Zealand government! Guided tours run every hour.

To get to the Beehive from Cuba Street, make your way to The Terrace, a street that runs parallel to Cuba Street on the west side. Follow the Terrace all the way north and you won’t miss The Beehive! The walk is about 20-25 minutes.

Wander the Botanic Garden

Over 26ha (64 acres) of unsurpassed views and a mix of native and exotic forests lies with the Wellington Botanic Garden. Discover bush walks that will make you question whether you are still in a city, walk through rose gardens, visit the duck pond and more! Maps are at all the main entrances to the Botanic Garden so pick one up and go where ever takes your fancy! Make your final Botanic Garden destination the Cable Car!

From The Beehive, backtrack down The Terrace then turn down Bolton Street, which will take you about 10 minutes to walk to the edge of the Botanic Garden.

Take the Cable Car

Probably the most iconic thing to do in Wellington City is to take the historic Cable Car! Enjoy the views as you make your way back down into the city. Rides depart every 10 minutes costing around NZ$9 one way.

If you have time before making your way down the Cable Car, check out the free Cable Car Museum at the top of the Cable Car. It’s a small but fascinating museum inside an old cable car wheelhouse. The Cable Car will take you back into Wellington City on Lambton Quay, which is a popular shopping district of the city.

Walk the Wellington Waterfront

To complete your loop of Wellington City and return to Te Papa Museum, walk via the Wellington Waterfront. Look out for art and sculptures along the way, like quotes etched in stone and hidden in different places. The Wellington Waterfront Walk is the scenic way to return back to Te Papa, which you will see the back of the museum building after just a 5-10 minute walk heading southeast on the waterfront.

There are many access roads from Lambton Quay to the Wellington Waterfront, just head towards the water!

And there you have it, your one day in Wellington walking tour itinerary is complete!

More About Wellington

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• 10 Best Budget Accommodation in Wellington City
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The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
• Immigration New Zealand (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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10 Best Day Trips from Wellington NZ in 2024

If you’re looking to escape the capital for the day, then we’ve got you covered with 10 awesome ideas for day trips from Wellington NZ.

Wellington City is well-connected to the wider Wellington Region which offers tons of attractions from animal safaris to hikes to movie sets. The range of experiences you can have on these day trips Wellington offers is incredible.

Most of these day trip options are accessible by public transport so even if you don’t drive or have a car (that was us for our first few years in Wellington), we have Wellington day trips for you.

We’ve also covered the budget spectrum so while none of these is completely free, they range in price from around $20 per person to $100+ – or as expensive as you want to make it! All prices are in New Zealand dollars and correct at the time of writing.

Best Wellington Day Trips By Train / Ferry / Bus

1. matiu somes island.

You know that island in the middle of the harbour? It’s actually really easy to get to and makes a great day trip from the city.

Called Matiu (after the daughter of a Māori chief) or Somes Island (after some dead British dude), it’s a nature reserve that’s home to a whole lot of native plants and creatures.

You can take the ferry from Queens Wharf and spend the day exploring with hikes around the island and picnics. 

There isn’t much else in the way of activities so it’s more of a laidback relaxing kind of day trip rather than full on but it’s a very peaceful place with lots of space for kids to run around, making it a great family day trip from Wellington.

Approximate cost: $25 per person for the return ferry plus whatever you want to spend on a picnic lunch (there are no shops on the island, so you have to BYO).

Related: Complete Guide to Matiu Somes Island

2. Eastbourne / Pencarrow

There’s something about the eastern side of the harbour that feels summery so it’s one of our favourite places to head when the weather improves.

You can choose to catch the ferry from Queens Wharf or the bus from Wellington Station (number 81, 83 or 84) or drive. 

You can choose to stay around the Days Bay area, where the ferry drops you off, or explore all the way down to Pencarrow Head at the southern end of the harbour.

The Days Bay pavilion is awesome when the suns out, there’s a big park opposite the beach with casual cafes and bean bags and pizzas. You can hire all sorts of rowboats, canoes and kayaks to take out on the water on a sunny day, and the rates are cheaper than the city beaches.

We love the walk out to Pencarrow Lighthouse. It’s around 10km return and you really want to wait for a calm day as it can be vicious walking into a headwind.

You can get some pretty good photos with the lighthouse at the end although it’s locked so you can’t get inside.

There’s also a good inland hiking trail too called Butterfly Creek that follows the coastline but with a decent amount of uphill, it’s mostly sheltered so a good option on a windy day.

Approximate cost: $5-25 for transport out there plus whatever you want to spend on food and equipment hire

3. Paekakariki

An awesome Kapiti Coast day trip option from Wellington is Paekakariki. Specifically, we’d recommend doing the Escarpment Track walk between Paekakariki and Pukerua Bay, having a pub lunch, and then spending some time at the beach.

The Escarpment Track is one of Wellington’s best walks and is 10km one way, taking 2-4 hours. With some swing bridges and lookout points along the way to keep things interesting.

It’s easiest to take the train to Pukerua Bay and walk one way from there rather than trying to do a return hike in one day.

Paekakariki is a very pretty small beachside town with a couple of options for food. You can go for fish and chips and ice cream on the beach (much needed after the hike!) or a nice meal at Beach Road Deli, one of our favourite cafes in the area.

Paekakariki is a good beach for swimming too, the surf is usually very flat.

Approximate cost: around $10 for train fares plus whatever you want to spend on food

4. Lower Hutt

We love the Hutt for hiking, art and food. While Petone is well known for its foodie scene, the rest of the Hutt has some great options too.

Make sure to visit the Dowse Art Museum , it’s a smaller gallery with a really strong Kiwi flavour that does a great job of showcasing Māori art. And their in-house restaurant is very well-regarded.

Brunch or lunch at Seashore Cabaret is a must too. They do awesome coffee and bagels and it’s right on Petone beach. Perfect for walking off the food afterwards.

If you’re up for a fitness challenge, Te Whiti Riser is a serious uphill hike, but you’ll get views of both the Hutt Valley and the harbour from the top. Once you’re finished, refuel with some ice cream or a milkshake from Zany Zeus in Moera.

Day trip cost: just the bus or train trip out here and food costs, entry to Dowse is free

Porirua might not spring to mind for a Wellington day trip, but this town has a lot to offer, and you can easily get a taste of the highlights in a day. 

We love Adrenaline Forest for something a bit adventurous, it’s a high ropes course up in the forest with a 6+ different levels of challenges.

For the outdoorsy types, try a hike around Colonial Knob, it’s a peninsula in the Porirua inlet with both a scenic track running around the shoreline or a summit track with views back towards Porirua.

For food, the Cobham Court area has lots of casual dining options, meaning your group can pick and choose whatever looks good.

Day trip cost: $47 per adult for Adrenaline Forest ( book ahead with Viator ) plus whatever you spend on food

Best Wellington Day Trips By Car

6. upper hutt.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly day trip from Wellington, Upper Hutt is a great option. You don’t strictly need a car to get here as Upper Hutt is on the train line but it’s very hard to get from the train station to the activities without a vehicle.

You can spend the morning at Staglands , a wildlife reserve with tons of animals that kids can get up close to and interact with like horses, pigs, goats and of course deer.

You can buy feed to hand-feed the animals or go on one of the lunchtime feeding tours or tractor rides. There’s even a café on site to make it easy.

Then in the afternoon check out the Kaitoke Regional Park which has tons of hiking trails through serene native bush.

Or if the adults need some downtime, there’s BrewTown, a craft beer hotspot perfect for whiling away a lazy afternoon.

Day trip cost: entry is $26 per adult and $12 per child for Staglands, Kaitoke is free to visit

7. Wharekauhau

For a luxurious day trip from Wellington, Wharekauhau is our top pick. This stunning property isn’t the easiest to get to, it’s way out by Cape Palliser , but it’s worth the drive for the views alone and you can opt for a helicopter transfer instead.

Wharekauhau is a luxury lodge, it’s where Prince William and Catherine stayed on their last trip to New Zealand, but they offer packages for day guests too.

Their offering includes a spa package which includes a massage or facial at the onsite spa for those looking to pamper themselves or an ‘Adventurer’s Day Out’ with a two-hour quad biking tour of the estate. Both packages include a Trust the Chef dining experience. Other activities like archery and target shooting are available upon enquiry.

It’s not the cheapest day trip at all but it’ll be an experience you won’t forget for a while, the perfect short getaway for an anniversary or birthday.

Day trip costs: the cheapest day package is $285 plus your own petrol getting out there

Best Day Tours from Wellington

8. seal safari.

The Seal Coast Safari is a truly unique experience on offer in Wellington that makes for an awesome day trip.

It’s an organised day tour, with no DIY option, so a bit different to the day trips on this list, but this does mean you get access to experiences that aren’t otherwise available to the public.

 The seal safari takes you around the south coast by 4×4, crossing private farmland to get to the best spots for viewing the local fur seals.

Just make sure not to get too close, they’re not very friendly despite the cuteness!

Morning/afternoon tea is included and you’ll also get to visit a few famous lookouts for awesome city views.

Day trip cost: $150 per adult for the tour, book on Klook

9. Kapiti Island

While it might seem hard to justify two islands on this list, once you see Kapiti Island, you’ll understand why it deserves a spot.

In fact, the only reason it’s not number one is that bookings can be hard to secure, what with the weather causing boat cancellations and a small number of guests on the island each day.

Kapiti Island is, unsurprisingly, off the Kapiti Coast and you can get there by boat from Paraparaumu Beach. There aren’t many operators offering trips to the island, and they don’t run in winter, so you’ll want to book well in advance.

Kapiti Island is a nature reserve and one of the few places in New Zealand where you can see kiwis in the wild. Although fair warning you’re much more likely to spot these shy birds if you stay overnight on the island (there’s a glamping option).

There are also plenty of hiking options on the island, including the summit Rangatira track. The day tours include guided walks with an expert to help you learn about the nature and wildlife you see plus lunch.

Day trip cost: return ferry transport is around $80 per person (make your own way to Paraparaumu Beach) while the full package day tour (including National Park passes) costs approximately $180.

10. Lord of the Rings scenes

Since it’s New Zealand, we have to have a Lord of the Rings option. There are so many filming locations around Wellington to visit and of course, we have Weta Workshop in Wellington too.

You could choose to bundle these into a DIY day trip itinerary or book yourself onto one of the awesome Lord of the Rings day tours from the city. There are city focused half day options or full day tours that go to further afield locations.

Our top picks of filming locations within the region are the Putangirua Pinnacles (Path of the Dead), Fernside Historic Home (Lothlorien), Kaitoke Regional Park (Rivendell) and Mount Victoria (woods around Hobbiton).

More Wellington Guides

If you’re planning to spend some time in New Zealand’s capital then check out these other articles to help you organise your trip:

• 50+ things to do in Wellington
• Weekend trips from Wellington
• Local Wellington foods to try

Happy travelling!

New Zealand Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Pre-book your tickets to attractions on Get Your Guide
• Find awesome day tours on Viator
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your New Zealand dollars with a Wise currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

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6 FUN DAY TRIPS FROM WELLINGTON

by Jub | Nov 30, 2020

The following are six-day trips from Wellington to consider.

Yes, there are plenty of walks and things to do in Wellington , but these day trips from Wellington are all awesome in their own way.

Note, the destinations are in no particular order. If you’ve got any questions, leave a comment at the bottom of the post or email me at [email protected].

THE 6 DAY TRIPS FROM WELLINGTON

1. WAIKANAE 2. MARTINBOROUGH 3. KAPITI ISLAND 4. PAEKAKARIKI 5. EASTBOURNE & PETONE 6. THE TARARUAS

1. WAIKANAE

Distance/time from Wellington by car: 59km and 50 – 55 minutes (you can also reach Waikanae by public transport).

Over the years Waikanae, where I grew up, has become a great place for a day trip from Wellington.

Start off with a walk up to the top of Hemi Matenga , one of the many awesome walks in Waikanae .

Then head to Mahara Place, visit the gallery or museum, and grab a bite to eat (maybe at Salt and Wood Collective ).

Then take a walk along Waikanae River towards the lagoon or head out to Nga Manu Nature Reserve for some fun experiences.

Depending on how much daylight is left, spend a couple of hours at Waikanae Beach while you wait for sunset. Or grab some fish and chips and head straight there for the sunset…as long as it’s a half-decent day, it’s an amazing sunset.

For those who need a coffee boost later in the day, one of the cafes by the beach have you covered. They’re also a great place for a meal before you head back to Welly.

READ MORE: 10 THINGS TO DO IN WAIKANAE

Back to the top

2. MARTINBOROUGH

Getting from Wellington to Martinborough for a day trip is easy, with several options available.

What’s Martinborough known for? Wine. It’s the smallest wine region in the country but does an awesome pinot noir.

You can visit many of the wineries by foot from the town centre, or hire crocodile bikes to get around.

Looking for a day tour from Wellington to Martinborough? There are plenty of options that’ll let you drink without needing to think about planning a thing.

• Book a 5 hour tour : You’ll stop off at some amazing viewpoints, visit 3 top wineries, and sample some amazing cheeses.
• Book a 7 hour tour : You’ll get to 4 wineries on this tour, which includes a deeper chat to one of the winemarkers. You’ll also get to explore Martinborough itself, a small town with boutique shops. And a brewery 😉
• A 7 hour tour, for the foodies : This does include some visits to wineries, but you’ll also get to visit a cheese shop, chocolate shop, and a olive oil maker.

If you’re planning to drive over to Martinborough, consider heading out to the tractors at Ngawi, Cape Palliser Lighthouse (above), Lake Ferry, and the Putangirua Pinnacles. They’re all fun attractions and are great to add to your list of things to do in and around Martinborough .

Then you can park up in Martinborough and drink all the wine (please don’t drink and drive).

I haven’t been here yet, but have yet to hear a bad thing about the Patuna Chasm .

3. KAPITI ISLAND

Distance/time from Wellington by car: 53km and 45 – 55 minutes.

I’m not sure if I would consider a visit to Kapiti Island a hidden gem or not, but either way, it’s great.

Kapiti Island is a predator-free island a few kilometres off the Kapiti Coast .

You’ll need to book your trip in advance and on the day make your way to Paraparaumu Beach Boating Club, where one of the two companies depart to Kapiti Island (they also have specials on this BookMe.co.nz page sometimes).

You have to join one of the two companies on a tour as they hold the permits to visit Kapiti Island.

Once on the island, you’ll see an array of birds, many endangered, and the guide is full of information (you can take a guided walk if need be). There’s a variety of walks you can do on the island (I love the walk to the summit), and/or take a dip in the water off the island.

READ MORE: EXPERIENCING A KAPITI ISLAND TOUR

4. PAEKAKARIKI

Distance/time from Wellington by car: 35km and about 40 minutes.

Paekakariki has become one of the most popular day trips from Wellington thanks to the Paekakariki Escarpment Track , one of the best day walks in New Zealand.

Most people are only going to be doing the walk one-way, so start in Paekakariki and catch the train back from Pukerua Bay to continue your Wellington day trip in Paekakariki.

Paekakariki is a small village so grab a bite to eat at The Perching Parrot and take a walk through the Paekakariki Art Studios (if it’s open) to see some artists in action.

Next up for the adrenaline junkies, it’s time to give the Fly by Wire , a bungy jump alternative.

For those looking for the best day trips from Wellington with kids, Queen Elizabeth Park is what you’re looking for with a small train, playground, walking tracks, and beachfront. You could forget the Escarpment and spend the whole day here.

For more information, check out this post on things to do in Paekakariki .

5. EASTBOURNE & PETONE

Eastbourne is located across Wellington Harbour from the city and is easily reached via the East by West Ferry (you might want to go via Somes Island too).

The Ferry will drop you off in Days Bay, from which you have a few options to pursue:

• Cycling (to Pencarrow Lighthouse)
• Hiking (in East Harbour Regional Park)
• Kayaking (from Days Bay)

Bikes and kayaks can be hired from next to the wharf.

After some time at the Days Bay Beach and visiting Chocolate Dayz Cafe , you’ll be ready to head to Petone via the #81 bus (check the bus timetable here ).

Petone is a large suburb with easy access to Wellington and has a variety of things to do. You could explore Belmont Regional Park, visit the Settlers and/or Dowse Art Museums, play golf at Shandon, or walk along Jackson Street.

Food-wise, there are lots of great options. Whenever I go, we seem to end up at the awesome Seashore Cabaret on the waterfront (that’s where the photo above is taken from).

From Petone, you can catch a bus or train for the short journey back to Wellington.

6. THE TARARUAS

Distance/time from Wellington by car: This varies, depending on which trailhead you start at.

The Tararua Ranges are amazing! There are heaps of tracks in the Tararua Ranges , and you could spend a week or more in them if you wanted to do a massive hiking journey.

The ranges are 80km or so long, extending from the Hutt Valley to Palmerston North .

In terms of day hikes, there’s a bunch of options. Do note, these hikes will usually contain at least 1000 metres of elevation…so they’re not for the faint-hearted. But you’ll get to experience some Goblin-like forest, and on a nice day, the view from the tops is world-class.

A couple of good day options include:

• the Kapakapanui Track
• the Jumbo-Holdsworth Circuit

Note: In the Tararua’s, hiring a personal locator beacon is a good idea. It could save your life.

I hope these Wellington day trips spark your inspiration. The best part for me? You can do most of these day trips from Wellington by train which takes away a lot of hassle if you don’t have access to a car.

RECOMMENDED READING

What to do in new zealand.

A massive list…

NZ Supermarkets

In case you need to pack lots of day trip snacks , this post will give you the various (and cheapest) option.

Hey, it’s Jub here. I’m the guy behind Chur New Zealand, helping you have the best time hiking, trekking, walking…whatever you want to call it…in NZ. I’m based in Queenstown and am always out and about exploring trails, old & new. If you have any questions, reach out.

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• Day Trips From Wellington: 10 Stunning Places To Visit From The Windy City

23 Mar 2023

Wellington is an extraordinary city. It is famous for a dynamic, innovative culture driven by incredible food, craft beer, wine, espresso, and occasions. Considered as the coolest capital on the planet, Wellington’s consolidate the old as well as the new to make it enjoyable. The scenery opens up a lot of chances for day excursions and visits from the city. The presence of culinary scenes and a variety of cultural attractions makes day trips from Wellington an intriguing option for first-time explorers.

10 Best Day Trips From Wellington

Wellington is between two of New Zealand’s most noticeable wine districts. There are various practical single and multi-day trip goals from Wellington. Below are some of the picturesque excursions to put on your must-see list:

1. Martinborough

Image Source

Martinborough has all that you would expect from a nearby wine area. It may be New Zealand’s little wine district, yet the vineyards only one hour from Wellington are enormous in character. A day trip from Wellington to Martinborough through hilly roads and rural areas is magical. Presenting world-class Pinot Noir, the majority of the other wineries are close enough for a bicycle ride. The town has a yearly celebration called ‘Toast Martinborough’ in which the different wine selections are celebrated. There are additionally a large number of bistros and eateries along the road.

Must Read: New Year Parties In New Zealand: Explore The Nightlife Of The Country!

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2. Wairarapa

The Wairarapa locale is home to various enchanting townships. It is only an hour’s drive north of Wellington. If you do not have a vehicle, you can directly book a visit from the capital. Wairarapa is famous for its country beguiles and a variety of grand stopovers. Well known spots to visit in the area include castle point and Cape Palliser. The more extensive Wairarapa locale is additionally becoming famous as a food hub. A considerable lot of Wellington’s best eateries source their products from ranches and dairies in the district. Along with quality farm food, you can discover landscapes and panoramic views.

Suggested Read: 10 Beaches Near Wellington For The Most Spectacular Landscapes!

The northern tip of the south island offers an interesting and absolutely unique experience. Picton is viewed as the entryway to the Marlborough wine area. However, there are a couple of things you can do while in this delightful, comfortable town. Day trips from Wellington to Picton are three hours long along the Cook Strait that present to you a dazzling perspective of the heavenly landscape. A walk around the foreshore presents bistros and breakfast spots, and Marlborough Sound make you go after the camera for amazing views. There is likewise the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum for admirers of history.

Suggested Read: Destination Of The Month: These Surreal Places Will Entice You To Fly To New Zealand In November

4. Kapiti Island

For those needing to get the first look at the most fragile and famous flora and Fauna in New Zealand, this little island that lies only a bunch of kilometers off New Zealand’s North Island is difficult to beat. This area preserves endangered plant and animal species. Kapiti Island is home to various other creatures including Weka, Taheke, Tui, Kaka, and Kiwi. Due to the implementation of multiple rules to decrease the ecological effect makes going here feel restrictive. You can enjoy waterfront scenes and attempt your hand at golf at the adjacent Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club. Advanced bookings should be made as the island is a secured protection site.

Suggested Read: 10 Adventure Places In New Zealand That Will Give You An Adrenaline Rush

5. Rimutaka Forest Park

Prevalent with courageous explorers and cyclists, the Rimutaka Forest Park is another dazzling day trip not very far from the city. Its central portal, known as the Catchpool Valley, is 30 km from Wellington, and there are different doorways as well. The Forest lodges at the Orongorongo Valley can be booked in advance. The Rimutaka Forest Park contains local birdlife, including bellbirds ruru and tui, kaka kereru. Red deer, pigs, goats, and possums are additionally present. The zone brags 22,000 hectares forested fields and different trails for different trekkers.

Suggested Read: Ski In New Zealand: 10 Places Every Adrenaline Junkie Must Visit At Least Once!

6. Paekakariki Escarpment Track

There is no better method to get your climbing on a day trip from Wellington to the Paekakariki Escarpment Track. As a feature of the Te Araroa walkway, this 10km track keeps running along the west drift from Beach Road, Paekakariki in the north, down to Pukerua Bay shops in the south. Keep in mind this not a circle track, so either leave a vehicle toward one side or catch the train back to your auto. The trail is exceptionally presented toward the west drift, which makes for dazzling perspectives, yet make sure to check the climate and be set up for changes in conditions.

Suggested Read: Autumn In Wellington: Drop Everything For These 10 Experiences

7. Makara Mountain Park and Beach

Makara Peak is a trailblazing bicycle stop set in 250 hectares of the local hedge, ideal for those experience addicts searching for a simple day trip from Wellington. You can relax at the calm Makara beach after the bicycle ride. This stony shoreline has clear waters and is just another 20 min on from Makara Peak Mountain Bike Park. There is an assortment of beachfront strolls with views of the coast and wind turbines. Complete off your day trip by treating yourself with a dessert from the bistro close to the shoreline.

Suggested Read: Shopping In New Zealand: 10 Incredible Places For Retail Therapy

Located on State Highway 1 at the north of Wellington, one day trip from Wellington to Otaki is an incredible day trip goal for those with shopping in mind. The residential community has a scope of outlet stores, including some notable Kiwi brands like Icebreaker, Amazon, and Kathmandu. Otaki might be best known for its outlet stores; however, the nearby shoreline is additionally worth looking at. Travel south along Kapiti Lane to the Otaki River Estuary Viewing Platform for extraordinary perspectives over the Otaki River Estuary and its natural life.

9. Masterton

In case you need a break from the city Masterton has superb bistros, world-class craftsmanship and extraordinary parks in the nation. Make your day and bring your bicycles! You can take a day trip to Wellington by train to this beautiful location. Take the train from the distance to Masterton toward the finish of the line. It’s a 10-minute stroll from the station straight down Perry Street to the town focus. The recreational chasing of these presented species is energized in indicated regions.

10. Greytown

Another train ride takes guests to Greytown from Wellington. It is a marvelous town of 2,000 encompassed by pleasant farmland. Home of James Cameron, the director of Avatar, this place has its natural supermarket and bistro, where the items produced in the garden are accessible to purchase. The road has lots of fashioner apparel stores and best class eateries. It is additionally home to the Schoc chocolate shops with inquisitive chocolate flavors, for example, carrot and coriander, papadums and curry and Earl Grey tea.

Further Read: Stewart Island: An Unchartered Territory In The Heart Of New Zealand

Wellington is notable for its shopping, historical centers, and craftsmanship displays. Apart from walking trips and long rides, you can also jump on a train and plan a day trip to other areas during your visit to New Zealand . If you end up with such an opportunity in Wellington, refer to this list of day trips from Wellington.

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10 Lovely Autumn Day Trips To Take From Wellington

A day trip from Wellington is exactly what you need to beat the boredom.

We love Wellington, but sometimes, it is nice to get out of the city and explore something new and exciting nearby. Wonderfully, the North Island offers some iconic gems to discover on one of the greatest New Zealand day trips . From scenic mountain drives to indulging in fine wine and shared boards…we’ve found something for everyone to enjoy.

1. Greytown

This Wairarapa town is just one hour from Wellington surrounded by farmland. It’s the perfect quick day trip where you can shop at boutiques, dine on authentic cuisine or even take part in a rare Beekeeping experience at The Honey Stables .

2. Martinborough

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Treat yourself to an educational wine tour this season in the picturesque countryside of Martinborough. Visit attractions like Cape Palliser Lighthouse and the Putangirua Pinnacles along the way. Foodies will adore this day out because you can gorge on plenty of scrumptious local cuisine, such as cheese platters from the unique cheese shop, chocolate treats from the chocolate shop , just to name a few. Certainly, one of the best day trips from Wellington.

3. Wairarapa

With a strong sense of community, Wairarapa is one of the friendliest spots in the country. Just one hour drive from Wellington, prepare for a unique charm and diverse experience. Start off by exploring a stunning vineyard and chowing down gourmet food, then finish off your road trip by trekking another hour to create magical moments at the famous Castlepoint Lighthouse. Definitely, this spot is a must-visit in Wairarapa.

4. Paekakariki

Just a short 45-minute drive from Wellington, this little gem is full of natural beauty as well as cool art galleries and museums. Be brave and take on the Fly By Wire, which is a bungy jump adventure in the forest. Alternatively, experience Paekakariki Escarpment Track, a hiking enthusiasts dreamland along the coast. It offers picture-perfect views of the coastal surroundings, making the 3–4-hour expedition worth it. Pack a picnic and reward yourself when you reach the top. Undoubtedly, one of the greatest day trips from Wellington.

Just 25 minutes’ drive from Wellington, discover a gorgeous walk or cycle on Makara Beach or the Peak. It’s the perfect day trip for adventure lovers. Likewise, Makara Beach is one of the best beaches to visit in Wellington . The sunsets here are phenomenal too.

6. Kapiti Island

As one of our favourite things to do , hop on the ferry to explore one of New Zealand’s oldest tranquil nature reserves. Wonderfully, immerse yourself in natural wonders by trekking through the forest or climbing the 521 m peak for stunning views. Get booking via Kapiti Island Nature Tours .

7. Somes Island

Why not discover this historic island just a 20-minute boat ride from Wellington Harbour? Perfect for any ages that enjoy nature, learning about wildlife such as penguins and trekking through glorious walking tracks. Certainly, one of the best quick day trips.

8. Taranaki

Grab your hiking boots and start your Taranaki adventure! This terrific destination offers countless outdoor explorations, from the mind-blowing volcanic peak of Mount Taranaki, to sublime underwater adventures. It is an excellent day trip for people of all ages. For the greatest experience, pack some camping gear and pitch a tent on route. Indeed, one of the most instagrammable places in New Zealand.

9. Whanganui

Just two hours and 40 minutes’ drive from Wellington, this beautiful city is one of the oldest in New Zealand, built on a river, offering plenty of watersports for enthusiasts. Full of history, culture and beauty…you won’t be bored.

If you’re feeling extra spontaneous, why not take a three-hour ferry ride at dawn to this South Island port city? Set in the stunning Marlborough Sounds, visit the historic Edwin Fox Museum, see marine wildlife at the Eco-world Aquarium, hike the picturesque Tirohanga Track, to name a few things.

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