A Wellington Wonderland: The Ultimate 3-Day Family Adventure

Experience the charm of Wellington, New Zealand, where fun-filled adventures await the whole family.

19 July 2023

Wellington, New Zealand is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip. The city offers a diverse range of attractions that are suitable for all ages, such as the interactive Te Papa Museum, the Wellington Zoo, and the exciting Weta Workshop where kids can discover the world of movie magic. Families can also enjoy exploring nature in the nearby Kapiti Island Nature Reserve or take a scenic ride on the historic Wellington Cable Car for stunning views of the city and harbor.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Wondrous Windy Wonders

  • Check into Hotel Jestermania, a quirky haven with colorful rooms and a trampoline lounge.
  • Embark on an adventure to Zealandia, a wildlife sanctuary, where prehistoric birds and skinks have declared themselves rulers.
  • Explore the funky Cuba Street, a bustling promenade filled with quirky cafes, boutiques, and street art that will make your inner hipster squeal with joy.
  • Visit the Te Papa Museum, where you can get up close and personal with colossal squids, interactive exhibits, and fascinating glimpses into Maori culture.
  • End your day with dinner at The Larder, a local gem serving up sumptuous Kiwi delights like velvet-textured lamb and feisty seafood galore.
Day 2

Magical Mountains and Movie Mayhem

  • Take the iconic Wellington Cable Car, soaring through the sky like a Pegasus on a power trip, to reach the summit of Mount Victoria for panoramic views of the city.
  • Lose yourself in the enchanting world of Weta Workshop, where movie magic comes alive with behind-the-scenes glimpses of Lord of the Rings and other epic blockbusters.
  • Wander through the Botanic Garden, where fairies are rumored to reside amongst an array of exotic flowers and whimsical sculptures.
  • Discover Zealandia by night, where nature's finest creatures like tuataras and glowworms unveil their nocturnal secrets during an ethereal guided tour.
  • Feast on scrumptious dumplings at The Ramen Shop, a culinary haven tucked away in Cuba Street, where East meets West in a delicious explosion of flavors.
Day 3

Seaside Strolls and Scrumptious Seafood

  • Start your day with a seaside stroll along Oriental Bay, where golden sand kisses the azure waters and the fluttering flags add a festive touch.
  • Soar into the sky like a seagull on the Wellington Waterfront Zip, a thrilling zipline experience that will leave you breathless and grinning like a fool.
  • Dive into delectable seafood delights at Dragonfly, a trendy waterfront eatery with mouthwatering Pacific Rim dishes, including melt-in-your-mouth sashimi and succulent prawns.
  • Explore the bustling Sunday Market at Harbourside, where local artisans and quirky vendors display their wares in a vibrant atmosphere of haggling and delight.
  • Conclude your Wellington adventure with a leisurely stroll along the vibrant Cuba Street, savoring the last crumbs of this eclectic city's charm.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Wellington, New Zealand by plane is to fly into Wellington International Airport, which is serviced by major airlines such as Air New Zealand, Qantas, and Virgin Australia. There are direct flights available from cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Auckland.

Car

The best way to get to Wellington, New Zealand by car is to drive from either Auckland or Wellington. The journey takes around 8 hours from Auckland and 2.5 hours from Wellington. It is recommended to take State Highway 1 and enjoy the scenic route.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no train services available to Wellington, New Zealand.

Boat

The best way to get to Wellington, New Zealand by boat is to take the Cook Strait ferry service which runs between Wellington and Picton. The ferry departs from the Interislander Ferry Terminal near the Wellington Train Station and takes around 3-4 hours. It offers stunning views of the Marlborough Sounds and is a popular option for tourists.

Bus

The best way to get to Wellington, New Zealand by bus is to take the InterCity bus service which operates from major cities throughout the North Island. The bus will drop you off at the Wellington Bus Terminal, located in the city center.

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