Popular places to visit
Zealandia
Your best chance of seeing rare native species in the wild, this eco-attraction is a fenced valley that protects many native bird species.
Botanic Gardens
A horticultural hot spot of color and sweet fragrances features native plants, rare trees and glowing insects.
Carter Observatory
Look at the rings of Saturn, touch rocks that have fallen from space and go on a virtual journey to the farthest regions of our solar system.
Cable Car Museum
This free museum tells the story of Wellington’s cable car since its beginnings at the turn of the 20th century.
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.
Things to do
Wellington: Return Cable Car Ticket
Wellington's Original HD LOTR Experience - includes Weta Tour
Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast
Wellington: Wētā Workshop Guided Tour Ticket
1/2 Day Guided Wellington Tour incl. Cable Car (Vans not buses)
Top hotels in Kelburn
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
Check in and check out was a breeze with very friendly staff. Rooms were tidy and spacious. Shower was huge with excellent pressure. Towels were soft and a great size. Beds and pillows were very comfortable. Would not hesitate to recommend to family and friends. Will definitely stay again.
Reviewed on 9 Jan 2026
Rydges Wellington Airport
Didn't have breakfast, so no comment. The major restaurant was closed, but the Peltonen had a simple menu and their food was excellent. Well done to who ever is in charge of Food & Beverage there
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
Gilmer Apartment Hotel
Position of hotel to Wellington attractions was the biggest plus
Reviewed on 7 Jan 2026
Rydges Wellington
All was as you would expect- i live part time in Wellington and stay in the city for the occasional day- great stay
Reviewed on 9 Jan 2026
ibis Wellington
Only parking let this down. Everything else was fine.
Reviewed on 9 Jan 2026
Oaks Wellington Hotel
The hotel is nice if a little run down. The staff are excellent but the surroundings of the hotel are a little dicey.
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Kelburn
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.
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.
Pipitea
If you're spending some time in Pipitea, Sky Stadium and Archives New Zealand are top sights worth seeing.
Karori
While Karori isn't home to many top sights, Zealandia and Botanic Gardens are some notable places to visit nearby.
