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Wellington on a Budget: 5 Days of Adventure!

Experience the best of Wellington without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Wellington, New Zealand on a limited budget can be a great adventure. You can explore the city's vibrant cultural scene, enjoy nature on the city's gorgeous coastline, and take in spectacular views from the top of Mt Victoria. With budget hostels and free activities to enjoy, you can make the most of your experience without breaking the bank.

Travel plan

• Check-in at the affordable Downtown Backpackers Hostel in Wellington's central district
• Walk around the lively bohemian neighborhood of Cuba Street and grab a casual lunch at Fidel's Cafe
• Visit the striking Te Papa Tongarewa Museum to learn about Maori culture, New Zealand's history, and natural wonders
• Stroll through the waterfront promenade and admire the modern architecture of the Wellington City Library and the Civic Square
• Have a refreshing drink at The Arborist Rooftop Bar while enjoying the panoramic views of the city and the harbor

• Wake up early for a guided tour to Zealandia, a conservation project that protects endangered birds and reptiles in their natural habitat
• Follow the walking trails that wind through native forests, lakes, and wetlands, while spotting colorful tuis, kaka parrots, tuataras, and giant weta insects
• Take a short bus ride to the scenic Red Rocks Reserve, where you can see seals basking on the rocky shores and hear the legends of Maori spirits
• Enjoy a picnic lunch at the botanic gardens and marvel at the diverse flora of New Zealand, from towering trees to delicate orchids
• Return to the city by cable car and visit the Wellington Zoo, where you can get up close to exotic animals like giraffes, cheetahs, and lemurs.

• Start your day with a flat white coffee or a matcha latte at the quirky and colorful Milk Crate cafe
• Visit the City Gallery Wellington, a vibrant venue for contemporary art exhibitions, films, and talks
• Explore the Weta Cave, a studio that produces visual effects, costumes, and props for movies like Lord of the Rings, Avatar, and Thor: Ragnarok
• Catch a live music performance at the legendary San Francisco Bath House or the intimate Meow bar, both venues favored by local artists and indie bands
• Dine at the popular Matterhorn bar and restaurant, known for its fusion cuisine, craft cocktails, and vintage decor.

• Take a ferry to Matiu/Somes Island, a pest-free sanctuary that showcases New Zealand's ecological successes and lets you see rare birds, reptiles, and insects up close
• Learn about the island's history as a Maori stronghold, a quarantine station, a military fortification, and a nature reserve
• Return to Wellington for a food tour that takes you to the bustling Wellington Night Market, where you can sample diverse cuisines from Korean fried chicken to Brazilian churros
• Savor the flavors of Wellington's vibrant food scene, from artisan ice cream at Kaffee Eis to fresh seafood at Crab Shack
• Head to a cozy bar like Hashigo Zake or Golding's Free Dive, where you can taste local beers, ciders, and sake.

• Visit the Sunday market in the Thorndon district, where you can bargain for vintage clothes, jewelry, crafts, and souvenirs
• Buy some seafood and fresh produce at the Wellington Farmers' Market and have a picnic lunch on the beach or at the harbor
• Explore the eclectic shops and boutiques of the Cuba Quarter, from records at Slow Boat Records to sustainable fashion at Kowtow
• Take a final walk along the waterfront and have a drink at the iconic Dockside bar, enjoying the views of the city skyline and the sailboats.
• Check out of your hotel and head back home, filled with memories of Wellington's nature, culture, and charm.