North Island · Explorer’s field notes
How to Wellington
A compact, creative capital on the harbour — and your gateway across Cook Strait to the South Island.
Wellington videos from the Hôtel du Van founders are coming soon to the Stay Scene channel.
AVOID · Wellington
What to avoid in Wellington
- Opening the awning on a windy Wellington day — gusts arrive without warning.
- Driving the van up the narrow Mount Victoria roads; walk up instead.
- Parking in the CBD during weekdays — use the waterfront car parks.
The top ten
Where to go, eat & take coffee
Places to explore, eat and stock up along the way.
- 1See & do
Te Papa Tongarewa
The national museum, free to enter, with a colossal squid and superb Māori galleries.
55 Cable Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011 
2See & doWellington Cable Car
The classic red car up to the Botanic Garden and city views.
280 Lambton Quay, Wellington 6011
3See & doMount Victoria Lookout
The best panorama in the city — walk up through the Lord of the Rings forest.
Lookout Road, Mount Victoria, Wellington 6011
4See & doZealandia Ecosanctuary
A fenced valley where rare birds live as they did before people arrived. Try the night tour.
53 Waiapu Road, Karori, Wellington 6012
5See & doWētā Workshop
Behind the scenes of the film props and creatures made famous worldwide.
1 Weka Street, Miramar, Wellington 6022
6See & doCuba Street
Bohemian heart of the city — the bucket fountain, vintage shops and street life.
Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011
7EatLogan Brown
Elegant dining in a 1920s banking chamber; famous paua ravioli.
192 Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011
8EatHarbourside Market
Sunday morning market beside Te Papa — produce, dumplings and good coffee.
Cnr Barnett & Cable Streets, Wellington 6011
9CoffeeCustoms by Coffee Supreme
Cult café from one of New Zealand's pioneering roasters.
39 Ghuznee Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011
10CoffeeFidel's Café
A Cuba Street institution for over 25 years — busy, loud and much-loved.
234 Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011
Do not make these mistakes!
1. Arriving late for the ferry
Vehicle check-in for the Interislander and Bluebridge closes about an hour before sailing. Miss it and you may wait a day.
2. Not booking the crossing ahead
Vehicle spaces sell out in summer and holidays. Book as soon as your dates are set.
3. Skipping seasick prep
Cook Strait can be rough. Take tablets before boarding, not once you're at sea.
Continue the voyage
Photos are AI-generated illustrations. Opening hours and rules change — check before you go.