Things to see and do in Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington
NZAS 2025 Conference
02–04 July 2025
Eating and drinking
There are too many restaurants, cafes, bars and coffee spots to choose from, but we have highlighted a few favourite locations that are in easy walking distance from Tākina.
Centrally located:
If anyone is keen on getting out into the suburbs, here are a few spots to look out for:
Lyall Bay popular city beach, particularly with surfersMiramar in case you are in the neighbourhood for a Weta Workshop tourOikos Hellenic Cuisine (really close to the airport, if you are at a loose end prior to your flight!)
Activities
For those looking to be active
Centrally located:Walk or run around the waterfront
Get out on the harbour, hire kayaks or paddle boards from Fergs Kayaks
Mt Victoria for fantastic views
Out of the central city:Mountain biking, lots of popular tracks including Mt Victoria, Makara Peak with bike hire available in Karori and on the waterfront
Walking / running around Red Rocks on the South Coast for some seal spotting
Other less physical activities
Centrally located:Catch a cable car up to the Botanical Gardens with great views
Enjoy wandering the laneways and Cuba Street for people watching and street art
Relaxing on the beach at Oriental Bay
Out of the central city:Catch a ferry from the waterfront to Matiu/Somes Island, a scientific and historic reserve; or across the harbour to Days Bay
Zealandia, an urban ecosanctuary in Karori, a great place to spot takahe, kakariki and tuatara, or even kiwi on their night tours
Weta workshop, offer tours with transport, or workshops on special effects, prop making etc.
