According to forum posts, Te Papa Museum, often highlighted for its free entry and extensive exhibits, is a must-visit in Wellington. The Museum of Wellington also offers insights into the city's maritime history without an entry fee.

Travelers have called out several natural attractions including the Wellington Botanical Gardens, accessible via the iconic Wellington Cable Car. Additionally, Mt. Victoria provides panoramic views of the city and is easily reachable via public transport.

Some users recommend Zealandia for wildlife enthusiasts, highlighting its focus on ecosystem protection and native species. The Weta Workshop appeals to movie fans, especially those interested in The Lord of the Rings.

For those interested in interactive experiences, the Space Place at Carter Observatory offers stargazing and planetarium shows, often suggested for evening activities.

According to forum posts, the public bus service from Wellington Airport to the city center is a practical option, notably utilizing a bus-only tunnel for a quicker route. Buses operate every 10-15 minutes during weekdays and every 20 minutes on weekends, with selected stops to ensure a reasonably fast journey.

Some travelers mentioned taxis and rideshares like Uber as convenient options for direct travel from the airport to various city locations. However, it's noted that with larger groups or more luggage, these options might be less suitable due to space constraints.

Travelers have called out shuttle services, such as Supershuttle, for providing door-to-door service from Wellington Airport, accommodating more luggage and potentially being cost-effective for group travel. The Supershuttle is described as a shared vehicle that might make multiple stops at different hotels.

For many users, the choice between these options often depends on factors like the amount of luggage, budget constraints, and personal preferences for convenience versus cost.

According to forum posts, the Astelia Apartment Hotel on Willis Street is highly recommended for its central location and proximity to eateries and transport options. It offers modern, clean apartments with kitchenettes, making it suitable for both short and long stays. Travelers have also praised the Copthorne Hotel for its fabulous harbour views and quality service.

Some users have highlighted the Intercontinental and the Double Tree Hilton for their great locations near waterfront attractions, although their parking can be costly. For more budget-friendly options with parking, the Brentwood Hotel offers free onsite parking and is a bit further from the CBD but has efficient public transport connections to the city.

For families and those seeking a homely experience, forum contributors suggest looking into Airbnb for properties in family-friendly neighborhoods like Mt Victoria and Oriental Bay. These areas offer a good balance of accessibility to city attractions while being quiet enough for families.