Wellington is the wild and windy city in the heart of New Zealand that possesses a compact collection of culture, cuisine, nature, and history. No matter where you venture in this vibrant capital you’ll discover something new to do at every turn. Here are some of the best free experiences that you can enjoy during a trip to this city.
1. Te Papa
Te Papa isn’t just a museum; it’s the national museum of New Zealand and offers enough exhibitions and displays to keep the entire family entertained for the day. Celebrate the diversity of New Zealand’s natural environment, see Gallipoli through the eyes of eight New Zealanders, and immerse yourself in a room of colour. Marvel at the impressive wax figures, learn an array of facts through interactive displays and take a walk through the great outdoors. A visit to Te Papa museum is a great free thing to do in Wellington. Plus, there are new (and sometimes paid) exhibitions popping up often too.
2. Mount Victoria Lookout
Located just outside the city centre, the Mount Victoria walkway offers a historic pine trail that leads to the mountain’s peak, where you can enjoy unparalleled views of the harbour and surrounding city. Visit during a clear day for an extensive panoramic view, or venture after dusk to view the city by starlight.
3. Weta Cave
If you want to tour the Weta Workshop, you will have to pay an entry fee. Still, if you’re short of cash, there are plenty of free things to enjoy at the Weta Cave. Immerse yourself in the magical ambience as soon as you arrive with the giant troll outside the hobbit door entrance. When you enter the cave, there’s so much to see; you won’t know where to start! Look into the eyes of Gollum, admire an array of impressive sculptures up close, and watch one of the team at work in the studio.
4. Cuba Street
There’s so much to do in Wellington that you could spend half a day simply walking down one street; Cuba Street. There are several shops and eateries where you can grab a cocktail or enjoy some window shopping. Thanks to the prominence of the street, the local stores often create elaborate and eye-catching window displays, so there’s always something to see. Walk across the rainbow road and snap a selfie under the “Windy Wellington” umbrella. While you’re here, don’t miss the iconic bucket fountain, a kinetic structure that is as quirky as it is famous and often gives unsuspecting passers-by a bit of a splash.
5. Enjoy a walk
Try walking up Mount Kaukau, the highest visible mountain on the Wellington City skyline. Take a short(ish) walk to the summit or combine it with the Northern Walkway to turn your walk into a hike. The best part; it won’t cost you a dime!
Check out even more great short walks in Wellington with our list of The 10 Best Short Walks in Wellington.
6. Visit Gandalf At The Embassy Theatre
Built in 1924, this historic theatre is an icon in the city of Wellington. Even if you don’t want to see a movie, you can walk through the doors and admire the grand architecture of this building with its marble staircase, tiled walls, and wooden fixtures. You will find a snack bar, cafe, and jazz lounge here. Keep an eye out for Gandalf, who watches over this popular theatre.
7. Attend A Free Concert
Enjoy ‘Gardens Magic’ each summer at the Botanic Garden’s soundshell stage, where concerts play from 8 pm until 9.30 pm, and light shows follow at 10.30 pm.
8. See The Seals At The Red Rocks
The Red Rocks Coastal Walkway is one of the most popular walkways in Wellington for three main reasons. Firstly, if you visit between April and October, you’ll have the chance to see the adorable seals frolicking on the rocks. Secondly, this area was used in the filming of Lord of the Rings and is a popular pilgrimage site for fans. Finally, the walkway offers several fun and fascinating geological oddities to fill you with wonder. This great Wellington walk takes around 3 hours return.
9. Frank Kitts Park
Relax in the lazy surroundings of Frank Kitts Park, where you’ll find a lighthouse slide and swings. Admire several sculptures, including an albatross and water whirler, and pack a picnic to enjoy on the amphitheatre-style seating. On Tuesday nights, you can head to the park at dusk and watch fire dancers practising their skills.
10. Wellington Writers Walk
The Writers Walk weaves its way past 23 sculptures with quotes from some of Wellington’s most famous writers, including Katherine Mansfield, Robin Hyde, and Patricia Grace who said of Wellington, “I love this city, the hills, the harbour, the wind that blasts through it. I love the life and pulse and activity and the warm decrepitude… There’s always an edge here that one must walk, which is sharp and precarious, requiring vigilance.” It’s one of the top free things to do in Wellington and you can combine this with a walk along Wellington’s scenic waterfront.
11. Visit The Beehive
Enjoy the home of New Zealand democracy with a free tour around parliament buildings. Guided tours are available seven days a week and offer the chance to learn about New Zealand’s parliamentary process and how you can participate. As you walk, you’ll see many collectable artworks and learn about the iconic architecture of the building.
12. Visit Otari Wilton’s Bush
What’s special about Otari Wilton’s Bush is that it’s the only public garden in New Zealand that solely holds native species of plants and trees. This site removes you from the city, allowing nature enthusiasts to bask in their own little pocket of wilderness.
13. Check Out The Easter Island Statue at Lyall Bay
Visit Dorrie Leslie Park, where you can enjoy stunning views across the bay to Moa Point and the airport. You’ll find grassy areas, picnic benches, and rocky outcrops here. The most striking feature is the moai of Easter Island statue gifted by the president of Chile to acknowledge the connection between the people of Aotearoa and Rapanui.
