Thorndon Travel Guide
Wellington
Popular places to visit
St Paul's Cathedral
Built over nearly half a century, this earthquake-proof cathedral is filled with stunning works of art and is among the most sacred sites in Wellington.
National Library
See the vast collection of books and use the interactive exhibits to learn about a young nation’s history at New Zealand’s most important library.
Cuba Street Mall
Enjoy artisan coffees, sample specialty foods, browse through vintage shops or hunt for retro bargains in Wellington's bohemian heart.
TSB Bank Arena
Located on Wellington’s picturesque waterfront, this multipurpose venue hosts many events, including concerts, trade shows, art exhibitions and more.
Te Papa
See, smell and touch the exhibits at New Zealand’s hi-tech and interactive free national museum.
Hnry Stadium
Catch an event at Hnry Stadium during your trip to Wellington. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Things to do
Wellington's Original HD LOTR Experience - includes Weta Tour
Wellington: Return Cable Car Ticket
Half Day Lord of the Rings Tour
Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast
Wellington: Guided City Tour with Cable Car Ticket
Wellington Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Cycle Tour
Top hotels in Thorndon
WQ Wellington Quarter
"The hotel is quiet, super comfy beds and clean. The rooms are small and the bathrooms are a bit dated, but that didn't matter as much, as it was the cleanest hotel I've been at in a while. It's also walking distance to shops, cafes and the Beehive."
Reviewed on 3 May 2026
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
"Property was good for something reasonably cheap to sleep in a comfy clean room and bed. Breakfast extremely average. Coffee was horrible thankful to have only stayed 1 night simply because we got in on a the late flight and didn't get to the hotel until 2am and checking out 9hrs later."
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Rydges Wellington Airport
"Excellent hotel when visiting Wellington for overnighter or short term visitors. Caution use Uber if staying in this hotel to explore the Central Business District. Taxis can get as high as triple the price of an Uber ride same distance. The airport is literally on the same building, very convenient. ..."
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
Rydges Wellington
"Very handy location, staff very friendly, great breakfast, spacious room and very comfortable bed"
Reviewed on 23 May 2026
Gilmer Apartment Hotel
"The room was exactly as advertised"
Reviewed on 26 May 2026
Naumi Studio Wellington
"Well positioned. Clean and stylish room . Small"
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Thorndon
Pipitea
If you're spending some time in Pipitea, Hnry Stadium and Archives New Zealand are top sights worth seeing.
Wellington CBD
If you're spending some time in Wellington CBD, Wellington Cable Car and TSB Bank Arena are top sights worth seeing.
Kelburn
While visiting Kelburn, you might make a stop by sights like Botanic Gardens and Zealandia.
Wellington Waterfront
The abundant dining options and interesting museums are top of the list for many visitors to Wellington Waterfront. A stop by Te Papa or TSB Bank Arena might round out your trip.
Te Aro
Te Aro is known for its popular shops, and with sights like St James Theatre and Cuba Street Mall, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Wellington.
Oriental Bay
If you're spending some time in Oriental Bay, Oriental Bay Beach and Oriental Parade are top sights worth seeing.
