Best Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Wellington

THE 10 BEST Cheap Things to Do in Wellington

Best Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Wellington

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Showing results 1-30 of 94

What travellers are saying

  • Ruben L
    43 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    First of all, the admission is free, which is absolutely awesome. Making education available that way is great, at least in my opinion. I was there for about 4 hours but barely managed to even scratch the surface of what can be seen and learned in the museum. There are so many different exhibits and they are all huge, I visited the one about wildlife and earthquakes and Fauna and Flora in general and I really recommend you do the same, it was quite interesting. Afterwards I went to the exhibit about NZ’s involvement in the first World War, which was fascinating, especially the huge wax models that looked incredibly realistic, in combination with the lighting and the otherwise dark room, it created a truly cinematic experience that didn’t expect at all. After that, I went to the exhibit about how the Maori came to NZ and how the European settlers (like so many other times in history) came to Aotearoa NZ and what (yes mostly negative) effect they’ve had, also really interesting. There are so many other exhibits that I haven’t seen yet, but I’m sure they’re all great as well. So have fun. Only mind that after September 17th international visitors will have to pay $35 for admission, but entry will remain free for New Zealanders. Enjoy!
    Written 7 September 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Ruben L
    43 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I went there early in the morning till the afternoon and it was awesome. I saw so many different birds and could hear even more of them. No matter where you walk/ hike, it‘s a sound experience in and of itself when you take into account all of the different bird sounds that you literally hear all the time. The tracks themselves are organized and it‘s hard to get lost if you take a good look at the map beforehand, but even if you don‘t, there are many maps with „you are here“ indicators along the way as well. The rainforest like forest that you walk through is also incredible, large ferns, palm trees and various other cool plants surround you at all times. If you are in Wellington, then you definitely have to check it out. I just bought the general admission ticket, which is valid for 48 hours, so I could hike where I wanted to but you can also book a tour. Overall, I definitely recommend visiting the ecosanctuary and just see it for yourself.
    Written 5 September 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Sara
    Ottawa, Canada14 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Fun way to get up the hill from Lambton Quay! The tide is only a few minutes but it’s enjoyable and interesting if you’re a tourist. The museum at the top isn’t the best but it’s free. Also excellent views at the top of the cable car. Would recommend if you’re staying nearby or planning to go to the botanical gardens.
    Written 14 August 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Ruben L
    43 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I hiked to the Mt Victoria lookout today and it is definitely worth a visit. The view is incredible no matter in which direction you look, it‘s really awesome. Additionally, there are several nice hiking tracks that you can use to get to the lookout rather than driving which I‘d definitely recommend, as the nature is incredible and there aren‘t many people so you can enjoy it on your own.
    Written 1 September 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • cb4fullcircle
    Austin, TX91 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Take the cable car up and leisurely wind your way back down to the city viewing these wonderful gardens, we were so pleased we took the time to see these beautiful gardens
    Written 31 August 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Jean1963
    Plainfield, IL18 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    The Interislander is a great way to travel between the North and South Islands. These are huge boats and you can even bring your own car. It’s about a three hour trip between Wellington and Picton. I tend to get a bit seasick, but not if I’m able to stand outside and enjoy the gorgeous views. I’ve seen plenty of seabirds, including an albatross, and dolphins following along side. I was in NZ in 2023 but didn’t take the Interislander this trip. I have a few times in past visits.
    Written 29 April 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Ruben L
    43 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    I walked along the Bay and the view is truly awesome. The water is also incredibly teal blue and pedestrian way is really wide and quite spacious. Definitely worth checking out when you’re in the area anyway. I was there at the onset of spring so I didn’t actually take a swim but even walking along the shore was worth it.
    Written 7 September 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Lisa H
    Brisbane, Australia652 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    A nice peaceful way to spend an hour. Some unique pieces of art history either donated to commemorate a loved one or to remember visitors to Wellington like the US Marine Corp.

    It’s free to enter but donations are welcome.
    Written 30 June 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • onitada
    Wellington, New Zealand277 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Gone are the days of dropping half a tab of acid and jumping the Zebra enclosure at 2am in the morning, for a visit, you would be better buying a ticket and having a laugh with the front counter staff, and they give you a map. The Otters snuggled together in the afternoon summed up my experience, as did the Chimpanzees and the Sun Bear, who was too lazy to swat a fly of its back. Everything was laid back. Well, it was not a public holiday, or school holiday for that matter. The staff were friendly, and the other customers were chatty. There were of course the grumpy grannies looking for faults in the Zoo, that were lurking around, that were easily brushed aside. I enjoyed the Black and White Ruffed Lemar's, who feasted on fruits and nuts. The Snow Leopard was invisible, and the Lion just had an operation, so was recovering. I thought the little blue penguins were a myth, to slow down drivers, but they are real! I was surprised to find myself watching a group of Kangaroos relaxing in front of me, without a fence, or barrier. The Giraffe was hungry and was pacing around. There is so much to do. I would like to return and book an up close and personal experience with a Capybara.
    Written 13 April 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Ruben L
    43 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    The self guided tour was quite informative and it was easy to self navigate across the Parliament grounds. The weather was good as well so I enjoyed it.
    Written 8 September 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • 456brianl
    Adelaide, Australia229 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We enjoyed our visit to the museum, there were quite a few interactive exhibitions. Wonderful stories on Māori culture and great Time Machine video.

    It’s a free entry but they do encourage donations, if you don’t have cash (most people don’t carry cash nowadays), you can donate by credit card, it’s easy :)

    As usual, there is a museum shop for local souvenirs and craft.
    Written 9 August 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • pakabay
    Adelaide, Australia2,510 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Cuba Street, part of which is a pedestrian mall, is a historic part of Wellington with many beautiful old buildings and an eclectic mix of traders, cafes, pubs & restaurants.

    Good just to wander up & down window shopping and people watching.
    Written 11 February 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • natclay
    Quinns Rocks, Australia207 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We thoroughly enjoyed our drive to this remote lighthouse. The scenery is beautiful and the drive itself is part of the adventure. The fur seals are an added delight, lying in the sun so close to the road. The climb up the steps to the lighthouse at the top of the hill is hard going but worth it for the view. A fantastic way to spend a couple of hours.
    Written 12 May 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Bety24
    Te Kuiti, New Zealand77 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Really nice walk through the valley and the rock formations are really beautiful. Be aware that way there is just up, and walk through the “river” basin could be chalenging for someone. Lookout is really steep hill so be prepared for little hiking.
    Written 4 February 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Christopher G
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Visiting the Government House in Wellington, New Zealand was an absolute delight! From the moment I stepped onto the grounds, I was greeted with stunning architecture and beautifully manicured gardens. The guided tour provided fascinating insights into the country's history and governance, and I was impressed by the professionalism and friendliness of the staff. Exploring the elegant rooms and learning about the important role the Government House plays in New Zealand's democratic process was both educational and inspiring. The grounds were simply breathtaking, making it a truly memorable experience. I highly recommend a visit to anyone interested in history, politics, or simply appreciating the beauty of New Zealand's capital city. If you get the opportunity to tour you should definitely do it!
    Written 13 February 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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