Aro Valley Travel Guide
Wellington
Popular places to visit
Te Papa
See, smell and touch the exhibits at New Zealand’s hi-tech and interactive free national museum.
Cuba Street Mall
Enjoy artisan coffees, sample specialty foods, browse through vintage shops or hunt for retro bargains in Wellington's bohemian heart.
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.
Courtenay Place
Shop, wine and dine in this culinary hot spot on one of Wellington's most fashionable streets.
Lambton Quay
During your visit to Wellington, you can do some window-shopping at Lambton Quay. Stroll along this family-friendly area's waterfront or simply enjoy its restaurants.
The Weta Cave
Learn the special effects secrets behind films such as The Lord of the Rings and Avatar with a tour through this Academy Award-winning studio.
Things to do
Wellington: Return Cable Car Ticket
Wellington's Original HD LOTR Experience - includes Weta Tour
Wellington: Wētā Workshop Guided Tour Ticket
Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast
Axe Throwing Lesson and Tournament
Top hotels in Aro Valley
Willis Wellington Hotel
Front staff very friendly. Greated me on arrival and the room was very comfortable and clean
Reviewed on 28 Dec 2025
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
Clean room, hotel handy in Wellington city , very walkable Breakfast good range of different options..
Reviewed on 29 Dec 2025
Rydges Wellington Airport
Clean, modern room with good facilities and tasty room service food. Courteous and professional staff.
Reviewed on 1 Jan 2026
Gilmer Apartment Hotel
Clean, tidy, good communication and economic
Reviewed on 27 Dec 2025
Rydges Wellington
The room was good but had to ask for extra items during the week as they ran out. Loved the pool and spa. Very friendly staff.
Reviewed on 24 Dec 2025
ibis Wellington
Everything was ok, except the room cleaning. The room looked clean in surface, but there was trash on the carpet floor from days before. The extra blanket was just thrown and not properly arranged once the beds were made. Overall was a good start, except the cleaning which was annoying and uncomfortable ...
Reviewed on 26 Dec 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Aro Valley
Brooklyn
Though Brooklyn may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Basin Reserve and Central Park.
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.
Mount Cook
If you're spending some time in Mount Cook, Basin Reserve and Central Park are top sights worth seeing.
Kelburn
While visiting Kelburn, you might make a stop by sights like Botanic Gardens and Zealandia.
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.
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.
