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
Great Location, staff friendly and efficient, parking good but could be cheaper.
Reviewed on 1 Jan 2026
Rydges Wellington Airport
Clean, modern room with good facilities and tasty room service food. Courteous and professional staff.
Reviewed on 1 Jan 2026
Gilmer Apartment Hotel
Amenities was a delightful surprise (laundry wash/dry facilities)
Reviewed on 2 Jan 2026
Rydges Wellington
The room was good but had to ask for extra items during the week as they ran out. Loved the pool and spa. Very friendly staff.
Reviewed on 24 Dec 2025
ibis Wellington
A
Reviewed on 3 Jan 2026
Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman
Good spacious rooms, staff very helpful. Walking distance to Cuba Street and easy access to get around. Hotel is going through an upgrade.
Reviewed on 3 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.
