Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city, is a vibrant and exciting place to visit. It is a great destination for budget travellers, as there are plenty of things to do and see that won’t break the bank. Here are some of the top things to do and places to see in Wellington on a budget:
1. Visit the National Museum of New Zealand – Te Papa Tongarewa
Te Papa is New Zealand’s national museum and is located on Wellington’s waterfront. The museum is free to visit, and it offers a fascinating insight into New Zealand’s history, culture, and natural environment.
2. Take a Free Walking Tour
Wellington offers several free walking tours that take you to some of the city’s top attractions and landmarks. These tours are a great way to get a feel for the city and learn about its history and culture.
3. Explore the Botanic Garden
The Wellington Botanic Garden is a beautiful garden located on the slopes of Kelburn Hill. It is free to enter, and there are several walking trails, picnic areas, and plant collections to explore.
4. Take a Cable Car Ride
The Wellington Cable Car is an iconic attraction that takes visitors from Lambton Quay to the top of Kelburn Hill. It offers stunning views over the city and the surrounding hills, and the one-way fare is affordable.
5. Visit the Weta Cave
The Weta Cave is a must-visit for fans of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at the work of Weta Workshop, the company that created the special effects and props for the movies. While the guided tours cost money, the Weta Cave itself is free to enter.
6. Explore Cuba Street
Cuba Street is a lively and colourful street in the heart of Wellington, known for its cafes, boutiques, and street performers. It is a great place to explore and soak up the atmosphere of the city, and there is no cost to walk around and enjoy the sights.
7. Visit Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary
Zealandia is a wildlife sanctuary located just a few minutes from downtown Wellington. While there is an entry fee, it is well worth the cost to see the native bird and animal species, including the rare and endangered kiwi bird.
Where to stay on a budget in Wellington
Wellington offers a range of budget-friendly accommodation options for travellers looking to save money. Here are some of the best places to stay on a budget in Wellington:
1. YHA Wellington City
YHA Wellington City is a popular choice for budget travellers. The hostel is centrally located, and it offers a range of accommodation options, including dorms, private rooms, and apartments. The facilities are clean and modern, and there are plenty of common areas for socialising.
2. Lodge in the City
Lodge in the City is another affordable hostel located in the heart of Wellington. It offers dorms, private rooms, and apartments, and the facilities are clean and well-maintained. There is also a communal kitchen and lounge area for guests to use.
3. The Dwellington
The Dwellington is a boutique hostel that offers affordable accommodation in a stylish and comfortable setting. It offers a range of rooms, including dorms, private rooms, and apartments. The facilities are modern and well-equipped, and there is a communal kitchen and lounge area for guests to use.
4. Cambridge Hotel
The Cambridge Hotel is a historic hotel located in the heart of Wellington. It offers affordable rooms, some with shared bathrooms, and the facilities are clean and well-maintained. The hotel also has a bar and restaurant on-site.
5. Trek Global Backpackers
Trek Global Backpackers is a popular hostel located in the heart of Wellington. It offers a range of accommodation options, including dorms, private rooms, and apartments. The facilities are clean and modern, and there is a communal kitchen and lounge area for guests to use.
In conclusion, Wellington offers plenty of budget-friendly things to do and see, from free museums and walking tours to affordable cable car rides and entry to attractions like the Weta Cave and Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary. With a bit of planning and research, it’s possible to have a great time in Wellington without spending a lot of money. Wellington offers a range of budget-friendly accommodation options for travellers, from hostels to hotels. Whether you’re looking for a dorm room or a private apartment, there is something for every budget. By choosing one of these affordable accommodation options, you can enjoy all that Wellington has to offer without breaking the bank.
