Wellington is a vibrant, buzzing city come rain or shine – here's some ideas if the weather is a bit average and you don't want to venture outdoors.

Lights, Camera, Action!

If you’re a movie buff, Wellington is the place to be. Catch a film at the Embassy Theatre, which played host to both the world premiere of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey and The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. The Wētā Cave in Miramar is a mini-museum and retail store offering a behind-the-scenes peek into Wellington’s movie world. While you’re in Miramar, pop into the Roxy Cinema – a boutique theatre showing the latest movie releases and blasts from the past in a glamorous 1930s setting.

Live theatre

Enjoy live performance at its best at Downstage Theatre, Circa Theatre and BATS Theatre. If you’re after ballet, opera and music, head to the Michael Fowler Centre, Opera House or St James Theatre.

Wellington
cable car, Wellington

Take a cable car up the hill to the observatory

Daytime star-gazing

Yes, you can enjoy astronomy during the daytime – take the Wellington Cable Car from the heart of the city to Carter Observatory, New Zealand’s national observatory. Think Big Bang science meets Maori mythology.

Interactive museums

New Zealand’s National Museum, Te Papa Tongarewa and the Museum of Wellington City and Sea are a complementary combination of cutting-edge story telling. Te Papa showcases our national art collection and takes visitors on an adventure into the great stories of New Zealand, while the Museum of Wellington is dedicated to local history.

Wellington
City Gallery, Wellington

City Gallery in Civic Square is the perfect place to start your gallery trail of Wellington.

Art galleries

City Gallery in Civic Square is the perfect place to start your gallery trail of Wellington. If you’re a contemporary art enthusiast, take a short trip out to the Dowse Art Museum, or if you’re interested in Maori, Pacific Island and New Zealand art head to PĀTAKA in Porirua.

Shopping

Wellington is paradise for those who want to do a spot of shopping – David Jones is a department store filled with designer brands from all over the world. while the Old Bank Arcade is full of exclusive boutique shopping in a beautiful heritage setting.

Wellington
Food & wine, Wellington

There are hundreds of eateries all within walking distance of the inner city hotels; as well as superb coffee in many of the local cafes.

Food & wine

Eating out is a way of life for Wellington locals and the city’s restaurants and cafes reflect this passion for food. There are hundreds of eateries all within walking distance of the inner city hotels; as well as superb coffee in many of the local cafes.

Night Owls

Find intimate cocktail bars hidden off Tory St, dance clubs and stylish pubs on Courtenay Place or head to Cuba Street for live music and local indie bars. Wellington’s waterfront offers awesome views and is a great place to head for a drink.