Popular places to visit
Island Bay Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Island Bay Beach during your trip to Wellington? Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
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.
Michael Fowler Centre
Wellington’s main stage for conferences and indoor events features award-winning architecture and a year-round calendar of music and arts events.
Things to do
Wellington's Original HD LOTR Experience - includes Weta Tour
Wellington: Return Cable Car Ticket
Wellington: Wētā Workshop Guided Tour Ticket
Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast
Craft beers & car museum - Half Day Tour incl beverage samples
Axe Throwing Lesson and Tournament
Top hotels in Island Bay
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
Great location. Room was clean but a bit worn. That said, good value for the money. Staff was friendly and excellent breakfast included
Reviewed on 17 Nov 2025
Rydges Wellington Airport
Aircon not functioning well. Asked for help in adjusting. Didn't happen. Telephone not working, had to go to reception to ask for blanket
Reviewed on 14 Nov 2025
Rydges Wellington
Receptionist and concierge extremely helpful and polite.
Reviewed on 18 Nov 2025
Gilmer Apartment Hotel
Room was clean and close to town. Washer dryer was great for doing a load of washing.
Reviewed on 18 Nov 2025
Bolton Hotel
Great service, clean and tidy room
Reviewed on 13 Nov 2025
DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington
Location, everything on top and everyday free cookies .
Reviewed on 18 Nov 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Island 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.
Newtown
If you're spending some time in Newtown, Newtown Park and Wellington Zoo are top sights worth seeing.
Kilbirnie
Restaurants and shopping are notable features of Kilbirnie. You might consider stopping by ASB Sports Centre while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
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.
Mount Cook
If you're spending some time in Mount Cook, Basin Reserve and Central Park are top sights worth seeing.
Mount Victoria
If you're spending some time in Mount Victoria, Mount Victoria Lookout and Oriental Parade are top sights worth seeing.
