Thorndon Travel Guide
Wellington
Popular places to visit
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.
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.
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.
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
Full Day Tour of Wellington
Top hotels in Thorndon
WQ Wellington Quarter
Great staff. Room was clean, comfortable bed.
Reviewed on 8 Dec 2025
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
Spotless, all the comforts you need
Reviewed on 10 Dec 2025
Rydges Wellington
The room was very nice. The restaurant food was excellent.
Reviewed on 5 Dec 2025
Gilmer Apartment Hotel
Would recommend Gilmer - I arrived after hours and everything was set up for me including parking which is very easy and convenient. The hotel is easy to access from SH1 which reduces city driving. The room had everything I needed. I didn’t need aircon but there was a fan.
Reviewed on 10 Dec 2025
Bolton Hotel
Love The Bolton! Great rooms, friendly and helpful staff and good location.
Reviewed on 5 Dec 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Thorndon
Pipitea
If you're spending some time in Pipitea, Sky 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.
