3-Day Wellington New Zealand Itinerary: Explore Culture, Nature, and Culinary Delights

Day 1: City & Waterfront

Wellington, New Zealand on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Fidel's Cafe

Enjoy a hearty Kiwi-style breakfast with great coffee; a favorite spot on Cuba Street known for its cozy atmosphere and creative menu.
NZD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Te Papa Tongarewa Museum

Visit New Zealand’s national museum featuring interactive exhibits on natural history, Maori culture, and local art. It's a must-see for understanding Wellington's heritage.
NZD0, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Wellington Waterfront

Grab lunch at one of the many waterfront eateries such as the Crab Shack, serving fresh seafood with views over the harbor.
NZD30, 1h0m

1:30pm

Stroll Along Wellington Waterfront

Take a relaxing walk along the waterfront, enjoy the public art installations, and watch the boats in the harbor.
NZD0, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit the Wellington Cable Car

Ride the historic cable car from Lambton Quay up to Kelburn for panoramic views of the city and harbor.
NZD5, 0h30m

3:45pm

Explore Kelburn Lookout & Botanic Garden

From the cable car lookout, wander through the Wellington Botanic Garden, enjoying native plants and scenic views.
NZD0, 1h15m

6:00pm

Dinner at Ortega Fish Shack

Dine on fresh New Zealand seafood in a casual yet elegant setting; highly recommended for the freshest catches and excellent wines.
NZD60, 1h30m
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Day 2: Nature & Wildlife

Wellington, New Zealand on May 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Midnight Espresso

Fuel up with specialty coffee and fresh pastries at this central café known for its quality brews.
NZD15, 0h45m

9:00am

Zealandia Ecosanctuary

Spend the morning exploring this groundbreaking restoration project aimed at restoring the native forest and wildlife of New Zealand, including rare birds like the kiwi.
NZD28, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Botanist

Enjoy a seasonal menu with locally sourced New Zealand ingredients in a casual garden setting near Zealandia.
NZD35, 1h0m

2:00pm

Wellington Botanic Garden Walk

After lunch, explore areas of the Botanic Garden not visited on Day 1, including the rose garden and the rhododendron dell.
NZD0, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at Oriental Bay Beach

Unwind with a stroll along the beach or enjoy a coffee at a nearby café watching the sunset over the water.
NZD0, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Logan Brown

Experience fine dining with a focus on New Zealand's rich culinary heritage and locally sourced ingredients in a beautifully restored bank building.
NZD80, 2h0m
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Day 3: Art & Views

Wellington, New Zealand on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Loretta

Savor a relaxed breakfast offering excellent coffee and contemporary breakfast dishes in an inviting atmosphere.
NZD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Weta Workshop Tour

Take an immersive guided tour through the Weta Workshop, the special effects and prop company behind The Lord of the Rings and other major films. Book tickets in advance.
NZD60, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Peoples Organic Kitchen

Enjoy fresh, organic, and locally sourced meals that cater to a variety of dietary preferences in a bright, open space.
NZD25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Mount Victoria Lookout

Drive or hike up to Mount Victoria for panoramic views over Wellington and the harbor, perfect for photos and appreciating the city layout.
NZD0, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore Cuba Street

Spend your afternoon browsing the eclectic mix of boutiques, galleries, and street art along Cuba Street, the bohemian heart of Wellington.
NZD0, 1h30m

5:00pm

Coffee break at Customs Coffee

Relax with a specialty coffee in this highly rated café to wind down your Wellington visit.
NZD7, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Monsoon Poon

End your trip with vibrant Asian fusion dishes at Monsoon Poon, blending flavors from across Asia in a trendy setting on Cuba Street.
NZD40, 1h30m
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