It may be home to Parliament and infamous for its gruelling southerlies, but Wellington has plenty to offer for a weekend getaway. From Oriental Bay to Island Bay, locals know how to provide a memorable stay.
Whether you fancy a morning promenade along the waterfront or tottering about the boutique shops of Cuba Street, be sure to make plenty of stops to enjoy the city’s hospitality offerings. They say the Flat White was invented here, so settle in for a caffeine hit – you’ll have plenty of options, with almost a cafe on every corner.
And don’t forget about the arts and culture. Whether you’re travelling with kids or on a romantic escape, Te Papa has plenty of free exhibits to tickle everyone’s fancy.
Whatever you do, ensure you have a great place to stay. You’re on holiday, so put your feet up, relax, and enjoy that wild Wellington weather.
The best Wellington accommodation to book now
A unique Lighthouse on Wellington’s South Coast
From $247 per night, Airbnb
Best for: Couples looking for a romantic getaway in a picture-perfect location
Right on the water with stunning views, this incredible stay is ideal for any couple looking for a weekend getaway. Imagine sitting inside a glass of wine in hand, watching a storm come in from the Cook Strait. If sunny weather is forecast, take a walk along the beach and around the bays to the local cafe and shops.
If you want to escape to the city, downtown Wellington is only a 15-minute drive away. But if the hustle and bustle don’t tempt you, there are plenty of local walks in the area to keep you occupied.
This lighthouse was originally built as an art studio and was never used for maritime duties, but it does feature an original lighthouse light on its upper floor.
Key features:
- Pets are allowed on request
- Parking
- Ocean views
An urban retreat to press pause
from $330 per night, Booking.com
Best for: A single or couple just needing to get away from it all
Surrounded by native bush, you’ll feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life at this urban oasis. Yet, some of Wellington’s top attractions are less than two kilometres away.
This cosy one-bedroom home is designed for those seeking rejuvenation and a connection with nature. An outdoor barrel sauna sits amid a landscaped garden, where guests can relax and watch birds swooping among the pungas and nikau palms.
Key features:
- Entire home
- Private sauna
Also available at:
A stay in Wellington’s skinniest building
from $221 per night, Airbnb
Best for: City dwellers eager to stay in an iconic building
Known as ‘Wellington’s skinniest building’, this iconic spot is well known to both locals and national tourists alike. With Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, right on its doorstep, the building is perfectly situated within the windy capital. Along with the museum, Courtney Place, the waterfront, and many of the city’s best restaurants are just a short walk away.
Staying in? You’ll be perfectly comfortable here, with the worn hardwood floors that speak of the building’s industrial past. The space has been modernised to include today’s creature comforts, featuring smart appliances and quality linen.
Character and charm on the city fringe
from $160 per night, Airbnb
Best for: Those eager to stay in a piece of local heritage
Known as ‘Rose Cottage’ on Tinakori Hill, this sweet little home oozes character and charm while being tastefully enhanced for modern living. With just one bedroom, it’s perfect for a romantic weekend getaway. Close to town, you won’t need a car to explore the city, though a garage is available if needed. Head down to the Parliament grounds or take a stroll through the rose gardens. Tinakori also boasts Wellington’s highest concentration of antique shops and art galleries, so you’ll have plenty to entertain you right on your doorstep.
Key features:
- Self-check in
- Convenient location
- Sunny courtyard
A sensory dreamland on electric Cuba Street
from $251 per night, Booking.com
Best for: The artsy, crafty travellers
There are few places to stay around the world quite like Naumi Hotels. Known for its bold design choices, the hotel’s Wellington location offers the chance to experience maximalism on another level. From the bright green downstairs bar to the striped carpet within the suites, you’ll be invited to play and indulge in the fun of it all.
The location couldn’t be better either. Situated on Upper Cuba Street, close to some of the city’s best restaurants and shops, you’ll be inundated with things to tick off your to-do list.
Key features:
- Indoor swimming pool
- Fitness centre
- Room service
- Restaurant
An artisan-designed sanctuary
from $240 per night, Airbnb
Best for: Solo travellers or couples looking for a glamorous hub in the city
Situated in the heart of the CBD, this curated apartment occupies the top floor of a 106-year-old Edwardian building, featuring original Matai flooring and sash windows. It’s antique glam, modernised for contemporary living.
Layered in texture, design aficionados will appreciate the curated collection of artworks, antique furniture and crafted details. It’s a place to exhale and slow down, but once you’ve taken a deep breath, walk out onto Lambton Quay for all Wellington Central has to offer.
Key features:
- City centre location
- Walking distance to amenities
A fusion of art, dining and accommodation
from $254 per night, at Booking.com
Best for: New Zealand art admirers and connoisseurs
The QT Wellington is known for its luxurious blend of art, technology and indulgence, featuring an eclectic collection of local artworks and access to some of the city’s best restaurants. Each room is designed with abstract lines and playful patterns, echoing the modernist architecture of Te Papa Museum just across the road.
When hunger strikes, you’ll have numerous dining options to choose from. Breakfast at Hippopotamus Restaurant? Dinner at the Cocktail bar? There’s also high tea available on weekend afternoons. And once you’ve had your fill of art and fine dining, relax in the spa pool or sauna. Absolute bliss.
Key features:
- Fitness centre, spa and sauna
- Bar and restaurant
- Room service
- Parking
3. An architecturally designed studio overlooking Wellington
From $170.00 per night, at Airbnb
Best for: Small families or groups looking to disconnect
High on the ridge above Wellington’s CBD, this tiny home stands tall to capture the views. With panoramic views from north to south, you’ll love sitting on the front deck watching the weather change.
This accommodation was the winner of a local Airbnb Best Designed Stay award, so you know you’ll be in for a treat. With one queen bed on the mezzanine and a double bed in the living room, this house can comfortably sleep four. Enjoy the hot tub outside, or stay warm by the fire burner while watching the city lights.
Key features:
- City-to-sea views
- Hot tub
- Close to public transport routes
4. A modern boutique hotel that pays homage to the site’s roots
From $230.00 per night, at Booking.com
Best for: Those eager to be close to Wellington’s iconic nightlife
Situated in the old Hannah’s shoe factory, originally built in 1923, this area is an icon and a landmark for many of the locals. Its superb location between Cuba and Taranaki streets means all the city’s essentials are less than a 10-minute walk away, and stepping stones from Wellington’s best restaurants and bars.
Each hotel room is fitted with everything you’ll need for your stay, including a desk, toiletries and air conditioning. If you get hungry, step outside and you’ll be met with a myriad of options from dusk till dawn.
Key features:
- Central location
- Close to key public transport routes
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