Aro Valley 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.
TSB Bank Arena
Located on Wellington’s picturesque waterfront, this multipurpose venue hosts many events, including concerts, trade shows, art exhibitions and more.
Michael Fowler Centre
Wellington’s main stage for conferences and indoor events features award-winning architecture and a year-round calendar of music and arts events.
Things to do
Wellington's Original HD LOTR Experience - includes Weta Tour
Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast
Wellington Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Cycle Tour
Discover Wellington 3 hour City Tour
Wellington: Original LOTR Half-Day Experience with Weta
Top hotels in Aro Valley
Willis Wellington Hotel
Good for one night on a quick trip to Wellington.
Reviewed on 15 Oct 2025
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
Convenient central location easy to access when driving in to Wellington. Easy to walk around the city. Unexcpected extra cost for parking, but it was convenient. Clean room and friendly staff
Reviewed on 24 Oct 2025
Rydges Wellington Airport
Nice clean and comfortable
Reviewed on 28 Oct 2025
Rydges Wellington
Drinks were excellent, open early for coffee
Reviewed on 19 Oct 2025
Gilmer Apartment Hotel
Really appreciated the upgrade when the first room had an unusual smell. I didn’t say anything but reception offered a different option. Very much appreciated
Reviewed on 26 Oct 2025
DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington
No
Reviewed on 23 Oct 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Aro Valley
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.
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.
Mount Cook
If you're spending some time in Mount Cook, Basin Reserve and Central Park are top sights worth seeing.
Kelburn
While visiting Kelburn, you might make a stop by sights like Botanic Gardens and Zealandia.
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.
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.
