Makara Travel Guide
Wellington
Popular places to visit
Interislander Ferry Terminal
Explore the waterfront in Wellington with a trip to Interislander Ferry Terminal. Discover the top-notch restaurants and fascinating museums 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.
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.
TSB Bank Arena
Located on Wellington’s picturesque waterfront, this multipurpose venue hosts many events, including concerts, trade shows, art exhibitions and more.
Sky Stadium
Catch an event at Sky 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
Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast
Full Day Tour of Wellington
Wellington Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Cycle Tour
Top hotels in Makara
Rydges Wellington Airport
Nice staff, good food and a clean hotel.
Reviewed on 16 Feb 2026
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
good location
Reviewed on 18 Feb 2026
Rydges Wellington
Really enjoyed our stay at this hotel! Very friendly and helpful staff, great food in restaurant!! The room was very clean and comfortable!!
Reviewed on 14 Feb 2026
Gilmer Apartment Hotel
The Gilmore Hotel is absolutely fabulous! It’s in a great location in Wellington, with easy walking access to one of the best shopping streets along with some of the historic district areas. Staff is wonderful and the facilities have been updated and are very modern. Would highly recommend!
Reviewed on 16 Feb 2026
Naumi Studio Wellington
Friendly and professional staff, overall clean facilities and great location. The fitness facilities are very limited and there was a power outage at the time that further limited functionality.
Reviewed on 15 Feb 2026
Bolton Hotel
very nice hotel, great service. Parking is a bit of a pain, we used the valet which seemed like we had to, but that was expensive. rooms were nice.
Reviewed on 16 Feb 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Makara
Karori
While Karori isn't home to many top sights, Zealandia and Botanic Gardens are some notable places to visit nearby.
Kelburn
While visiting Kelburn, you might make a stop by sights like Botanic Gardens and Zealandia.
Brooklyn
Though Brooklyn may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Central Park and Basin Reserve.
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.
Mount Cook
If you're spending some time in Mount Cook, Central Park and Basin Reserve are top sights worth seeing.
