Makara Travel Guide
Wellington
Popular places to visit
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.
The Weta Cave
Learn the special effects secrets behind films such as The Lord of the Rings and Avatar with a tour through this Academy Award-winning studio.
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
Wellington Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Cycle Tour
Craft beers & car museum - Half Day Tour incl beverage samples
Top hotels in Makara
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
Dining room and bar staff were outstanding
Reviewed on 22 Dec 2025
Rydges Wellington Airport
Great room and very convenient.
Reviewed on 17 Dec 2025
Rydges Wellington
We stayed here after the Northern Explorer train. The hotel is a 5” walk from train station. Room was spotless, mattress comfortable, linens crisp, pillows were a bit too big for our comfort. Mini bar in room with no posted prices. The staff was very helpful with walking directions to ferry in the ...
Reviewed on 21 Dec 2025
Gilmer Apartment Hotel
Clean There is a short cut which we were told about after we dragged our suitcases up a steep hill. Could have done with it with email check in instructions After hour check in worked well
Reviewed on 17 Dec 2025
Oaks Wellington Hotel
The location is excellent
Reviewed on 18 Dec 2025
WQ Wellington Quarter
Great staff. Room was clean, comfortable bed.
Reviewed on 8 Dec 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Makara
Karori
While Karori isn't home to many top sights, Zealandia and Botanic Gardens are some notable places to visit nearby.
Kelburn
While visiting Kelburn, you might make a stop by sights like Botanic Gardens and Zealandia.
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.
Wellington CBD
If you're spending some time in Wellington CBD, Wellington Cable Car and Museum of Wellington City and Sea are top sights worth seeing.
Thorndon
If you're spending some time in Thorndon, Lambton Quay and National Library are top sights worth seeing.
Mount Cook
If you're spending some time in Mount Cook, Basin Reserve and Central Park are top sights worth seeing.
