Wellington on a Budget: 4 Days of Fun!

Discovering Wellington's charm without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Explore the beautiful city of Wellington on a budget-friendly trip. Discover the iconic landmarks, including the Te Papa Museum, Mount Victoria Lookout, and Wellington Botanic Garden. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, enjoy delicious street eats, and experience adventure activities like hiking, cycling, and surfing along the scenic coastline.

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Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Wellington!

  • Check in at the Trek Global Backpackers Hostel, located in the lively Cuba Street with a funky atmosphere and affordable prices.
  • Head to the waterfront and grab lunch at the Harbourside Market, offering local delicacies and stunning views of the marina.
  • Explore the interactive exhibits and futuristic designs of Te Papa, New Zealand's national museum.
  • Take a stroll through the picturesque Botanic Garden, showcasing exotic plants, sculptures and panoramic vistas of the city.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Whittaker's Chocolate Factory, a chocolate lover's paradise with free samples and behind-the-scenes tours.
  • Indulge in craft beers and live music at the Rogue & Vagabond, a hipster bar with a diverse selection of brews and a friendly crowd.
Day 2

Culture and Nature

  • Enjoy breakfast at Maranui Cafe, a retro spot offering delicious coffee, pastries and panoramic ocean views from Mount Victoria.
  • Immerse yourself in the artistic vibe of Cuba Street, known for its colorful murals, street performers and vintage shops.
  • Observe the native wildlife and rugged coastline of Zealandia, a conservation sanctuary with walking trails and birdwatching opportunities.
  • Learn about Maori culture and traditions at the Owhiro Bay Maori Village, where you can witness a haka performance and taste a hangi feast.
  • Wander through the charming Wellington Cable Car, a historic funicular that takes you to Kelburn and its panoramic lookout.
  • Treat yourself to a dinner at Little Penang, a vibrant Malaysian restaurant with sizzling dishes and exotic spices.
Day 3

Cinema and Creativity

  • Have a brunch at the iconic Loretta Cafe, a stylish eatery with a French twist and a emphasis on local produce.
  • Visit the Weta Cave Workshop, a movie magic studio where you can see props, costumes and special effects from famous films like The Lord of The Rings and Avatar.
  • Admire the colorful collections and artistic displays of the City Gallery Wellington, a contemporary art museum in the heart of Civic Square.
  • Take a stroll to the Oriental Bay, a scenic waterfront of golden sand, palm trees and ice cream stalls.
  • Unleash your inner geek at the Pukeahu National War Memorial Park, home to an impressive collection of military artifacts and tributes to fallen soldiers.
  • Experience the magic of the Circa Theatre, a vibrant venue that showcases plays, comedies and musicals from national and international artists.
Day 4

Goodbye Wellington!

  • Grab some breakfast bites and souvenirs at the Wellington Night Market, a bustling marketplace with food trucks, performances and crafts.
  • Hike up to the panoramic Mount Kaukau, a stunning viewpoint that overlooks Wellington's skyline and harbor.
  • Visit the Wellington Museum, a fascinating cultural hotspot with interactive exhibits and stories of the city's history and heritage.
  • Enjoy a leisurely promenade along the Windy Welly Walkway, a coastal path that takes you from Evans Bay to Houghton Bay.
  • Say goodbye in a fitting way by having drinks at the Matterhorn, an iconic bar with a retro-meets-modern decor and live DJ sessions.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Wellington

Wellington: where strong winds are just one of the things that will blow you away. Come for the coffee, stay for the quirkiness.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

5 Days of Romance in Wellington, New Zealand

Embark on a romantic getaway to Wellington, New Zealand, a charming city with a breathtaking waterfront view. Take a stroll through the picturesque Botanic Garden or hike up Mount Victoria for a panoramic view of the city. Indulge in a cozy dinner at one of Wellington's top-rated restaurants and end the day with a romantic evening walk along the waterfront.

5-Day Adventure: Unleashing Wellington's Wonders

As a tourist visiting Wellington, New Zealand, you can expect to be greeted by the stunning coastline, mesmerizing views of the harbor, and an array of cultural and outdoor activities. From visiting the famous Weta Workshop, wandering through the interactive exhibitions at Te Papa Museum, hiking in the lush green hills, to exploring the vibrant nightlife, Wellington offers something for everyone. Moreover, the city's culinary scene is a treat for foodies, with an assortment of restaurants, cafes, and bars serving up delicious local and international dishes.

Wellington Wonder Tour: Family Fun in New Zealand's Capital

Wellington, New Zealand offers the perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with its abundance of diverse and exciting activities. From exploring the interactive exhibits at the Te Papa Museum to taking a scenic ride on the Wellington Cable Car, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Additionally, the city's beautiful waterfront, vibrant food scene, and numerous parks and playgrounds make Wellington an ideal destination for an unforgettable family vacation.

3 Days of Fun and Adventure in Wellington, NZ

A trip to Wellington on a limited budget can allow you to experience the charming New Zealand capital without breaking the bank. Some must-see attractions include the Wellington Botanic Garden, Te Papa Museum, and the scenic Mount Victoria Lookout. To save money, consider staying in budget accommodation options such as hostels or Airbnbs, and look for cheap eats at local cafes and food trucks.