Popular places to visit
Island Bay Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Island Bay Beach during your trip to Wellington? Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Te Papa
See, smell and touch the exhibits at New Zealand’s hi-tech and interactive free national museum.
Cuba Street Mall
Enjoy artisan coffees, sample specialty foods, browse through vintage shops or hunt for retro bargains in Wellington's bohemian heart.
Wellington Central Business District
Wellington Central Business District is just one of the places to see in Wellington, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Experience the fascinating museums and acclaimed art galleries in this walkable area.
Courtenay Place
Shop, wine and dine in this culinary hot spot on one of Wellington's most fashionable streets.
Lambton Quay
During your visit to Wellington, you can do some window-shopping at Lambton Quay. Stroll along this family-friendly area's waterfront or simply enjoy its restaurants.
Things to do
Wellington's Original HD LOTR Experience - includes Weta Tour
Wellington: Return Cable Car Ticket
Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast
Full Day Tour of Wellington
Wellington Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Cycle Tour
Top hotels in Island Bay
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
Great Location, staff friendly and efficient, parking good but could be cheaper.
Reviewed on 1 Jan 2026
Rydges Wellington Airport
Clean, modern room with good facilities and tasty room service food. Courteous and professional staff.
Reviewed on 1 Jan 2026
Gilmer Apartment Hotel
Amenities was a delightful surprise (laundry wash/dry facilities)
Reviewed on 2 Jan 2026
Rydges Wellington
The room was good but had to ask for extra items during the week as they ran out. Loved the pool and spa. Very friendly staff.
Reviewed on 24 Dec 2025
ibis Wellington
A
Reviewed on 3 Jan 2026
Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman
Good spacious rooms, staff very helpful. Walking distance to Cuba Street and easy access to get around. Hotel is going through an upgrade.
Reviewed on 3 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Island Bay
Lyall Bay
Lyall Bay is well liked for its beaches. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Wellington area, you might plan a trip to Wellington Zoo or Newtown Park.
Newtown
If you're spending some time in Newtown, Newtown Park and Wellington Zoo are top sights worth seeing.
Kilbirnie
Restaurants and shopping are notable features of Kilbirnie. You might consider stopping by ASB Sports Centre while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
Brooklyn
Though Brooklyn may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Basin Reserve and Central Park.
Mount Cook
If you're spending some time in Mount Cook, Basin Reserve and Central Park are top sights worth seeing.
Mount Victoria
If you're spending some time in Mount Victoria, Mount Victoria Lookout and Oriental Parade are top sights worth seeing.
