Wellington offers a dense programme for 2-3 days, all accessible on foot or via short transports.
The absolute must: Te Papa Museum on the waterfront. Free, 6 levels of exceptional exhibits — complete Māori wing (Mana Whenua with giant waka canoe and sculpted Te Marae), colossal squid 4.2 m unique in the world, New Zealand natural history, art. Plan minimum 3-4 h.
The Wellington Cable Car (NZD 7 return, 1902) links Lambton Quay to Kelburn — panoramic city view. On arrival: Cable Car Museum (free), then walk down through Botanic Gardens (free) to Parliament (free guided tour, 1 h) and Old St Paul's (free, gothic wooden cathedral 1866).
Discover Cuba Street — Wellington's bohemian soul — independent cafes, galleries, vintage shops, ethnic restaurants, craft beer bars. Try iconic cafes: Customs Brew Bar, Flight Coffee, Memphis Belle, Mojo.
Climb (1 h from Cuba Street) to Mt Victoria (196 m) for sunset — 360° panoramic view. Lord of the Rings filming locations trail.
Film fans visit Weta Workshop in Miramar (30 min by bus 24) — guided tours NZD 60-95 (90 min, Lord of the Rings effects workshop).
Visit Zealandia (NZD 24 day, NZD 95 night visit) — urban ecological sanctuary, wild kiwis observable at night.
In the evening, dine on Courtenay Place and enjoy the craft beer scene: Garage Project Tap Room, Fork & Brewer, Husk Bar, Little Beer Quarter.
Day excursions: Martinborough Pinot Noir vineyards (1h30), Cape Palliser seals and lighthouse (2h30), Kapiti Island ornithological sanctuary.
Read also
- Région Wellington — La capitale + Martinborough vignobles + Cape Palliser côte sauvage.
- Île Sud — Accessible en ferry Interislander 3h30 depuis Wellington, l'une des plus belles traversées au monde.
- Nouvelle-Zélande — Guide complet du pays : 2 îles, formalités NZeTA, budget, meilleure période.