Thorndon Travel Guide
Wellington
Popular places to visit
St Paul's Cathedral
Built over nearly half a century, this earthquake-proof cathedral is filled with stunning works of art and is among the most sacred sites in Wellington.
National Library
See the vast collection of books and use the interactive exhibits to learn about a young nation’s history at New Zealand’s most important library.
Interislander Ferry Terminal
Explore the waterfront in Wellington with a trip to Interislander Ferry Terminal. Discover the top-notch restaurants and fascinating museums in this walkable area.
Cuba Street Mall
Enjoy artisan coffees, sample specialty foods, browse through vintage shops or hunt for retro bargains in Wellington's bohemian heart.
Te Papa
See, smell and touch the exhibits at New Zealand’s hi-tech and interactive free national museum.
Wellington Central Business District
Wellington Central Business District is just one of the places to see in Wellington, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Experience the fascinating museums and acclaimed art galleries in this walkable area.
Things to do
Wellington's Original HD LOTR Experience - includes Weta Tour
Wellington: Return Cable Car Ticket
Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast
Axe Throwing Lesson and Tournament
Discover Wellington 3 hour City Tour
Top hotels in Thorndon
WQ Wellington Quarter
Room had no Aircond but provided 2fans, ten room was small, bathroom tiny like a box, location perfect close to lo al supermarket and fish and chip cafe Thai restaurant…everything shuts down in Wellington 9-10pm.
Reviewed on 14 Feb 2026
Rydges Wellington Airport
So convenient. Peppermint tea sachets and a Nespresso Machine or similar would be a real plus.
Reviewed on 26 Feb 2026
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
We had a 2 night stay, for 3 people. Our room was a good size and very comfortable. It had a bar fridge and tea/coffee making. The bathroom was fine but a little dated. Reception and housekeeping we great. The hotel is in an excellent location with the Main Street at its foot and a short walk to ...
Reviewed on 25 Feb 2026
Rydges Wellington
We were supposed to stay at Rydes Wellington and had booked two nights. The booking was done through Expedia and I had reached out to the hotel by text because the weather was terrible and suggested that we would stay back. I didn’t get a text message back from the hotel. We had to get a hotel in ...
Reviewed on 25 Feb 2026
Gilmer Apartment Hotel
The location is excellent and so central. There are shops, restaurants and amenities such as the cable car moments away.
Reviewed on 24 Feb 2026
Naumi Studio Wellington
Gorgeous quirky design features at this hotel, loved the bar and my room was clean and very stylish
Reviewed on 22 Feb 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Thorndon
Pipitea
If you're spending some time in Pipitea, Sky Stadium and Archives New Zealand are top sights worth seeing.
Wellington CBD
If you're spending some time in Wellington CBD, Wellington Cable Car and Museum of Wellington City and Sea are top sights worth seeing.
Kelburn
While visiting Kelburn, you might make a stop by sights like Botanic Gardens and Zealandia.
Wellington Waterfront
The abundant dining options and interesting museums are top of the list for many visitors to Wellington Waterfront. A stop by Te Papa or TSB Bank Arena might round out your trip.
Te Aro
Te Aro is known for its popular shops, and with sights like St James Theatre and Cuba Street Mall, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Wellington.
Oriental Bay
If you're spending some time in Oriental Bay, Oriental Bay Beach and Oriental Parade are top sights worth seeing.
