Houghton Bay Travel Guide
Wellington
Visit Houghton Bay
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.
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.
Courtenay Place
Shop, wine and dine in this culinary hot spot on one of Wellington's most fashionable streets.
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 Houghton Bay
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
Check in and check out was a breeze with very friendly staff. Rooms were tidy and spacious. Shower was huge with excellent pressure. Towels were soft and a great size. Beds and pillows were very comfortable. Would not hesitate to recommend to family and friends. Will definitely stay again.
Reviewed on 9 Jan 2026
Rydges Wellington Airport
Clean. Comfortable.
Reviewed on 12 Jan 2026
Gilmer Apartment Hotel
Great clean and close to everything
Reviewed on 12 Jan 2026
Rydges Wellington
All was as you would expect- i live part time in Wellington and stay in the city for the occasional day- great stay
Reviewed on 9 Jan 2026
ibis Wellington
Only parking let this down. Everything else was fine.
Reviewed on 9 Jan 2026
Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman
The room was clean, reception staff and cleaning staff were pleasant and helpful. It had everything I needed and was a great central location.
Reviewed on 8 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Houghton Bay
Lyall Bay
Lyall Bay is well liked for its beaches. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Wellington area, you might plan a trip to Wellington Zoo or Newtown Park.
Island Bay
Highlights of Island Bay include its fantastic nightlife, captivating waterfront views and popular shops. If you're interested in exploring some sights, Island Bay Beach is a top sight to visit.
Kilbirnie
Restaurants and shopping are notable features of Kilbirnie. You might consider stopping by ASB Sports Centre while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
Newtown
If you're spending some time in Newtown, Newtown Park and Wellington Zoo are top sights worth seeing.
Miramar
Visitors to Miramar enjoy its beaches, and if you want to do some exploring, The Weta Cave is worth a stop.
Mount Cook
If you're spending some time in Mount Cook, Basin Reserve and Central Park are top sights worth seeing.
