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.
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.
Cuba Street Mall
Enjoy artisan coffees, sample specialty foods, browse through vintage shops or hunt for retro bargains in Wellington's bohemian heart.
Courtenay Place
Shop, wine and dine in this culinary hot spot on one of Wellington's most fashionable streets.
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.
TSB Bank Arena
Located on Wellington’s picturesque waterfront, this multipurpose venue hosts many events, including concerts, trade shows, art exhibitions and more.
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
The staff were qonderful. We dealt with Kenneth who was fabulous to deal with! Everything was seamless and such clean snuggly rooms with fantastic location right in the middle of Lampton Quay.
Reviewed on 15 Dec 2025
Rydges Wellington Airport
Great room and very convenient.
Reviewed on 17 Dec 2025
Rydges Wellington
The room was very nice. The restaurant food was excellent.
Reviewed on 5 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
Bolton Hotel
Wonderful staff
Reviewed on 19 Dec 2025
Oaks Wellington Hotel
The location is excellent
Reviewed on 18 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.
