In our ‘Complete Guide’ series, we’re going to be visiting some of New Zealand’s most popular tourist destinations and getting the inside track from our GO Explore followers on the best places to stay, eat, drink, sunbathe and more. Instead of just finding out what the guidebooks tell you, find out what the locals and the travellers think when it comes to the best place to get an ice cream, the best fish and chips and the best cocktail you’ll ever taste!

For those of you who might not know, Wellington is New Zealand’s capital city and is located at the southern tip of the North Island. It’s one of the world’s smallest capital cities but don’t let that fool you – it’s also one of the coolest. With a vibrant night scene, some amazing beaches and some of New Zealand’s finest restaurants, Wellington is a ‘must visit’ place on any tour of New Zealand. It’s also home to the rather cool Beehive building where New Zealand’s parliament sit as well as New Zealand’s most popular museum, Te Papa. Oh yeah, and if you’re into movies, then Wellington is also the home of New Zealand’s film industry and the Weta Workshop has been involved in the creation of some of the world’s biggest movies including the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies, Thunderbirds and Chappie. If that hasn’t got you excited, keep on reading for more great tips on things to do in our lovely little capital – let’s GO!

Best accommodation in Wellington

New Zealand’s capital city is not short on places to stay whether you are looking for five star luxury or something a bit less extravagant. Most people visiting Wellington are looking for hotels in the main CBD – from here you can easily access the majority of Wellington’s main attractions and this puts you right in the heart of the city whether you are looking for a big night out or you want to explore the beautiful city beaches. We have chucked in a couple of cracking little places that are located in and around Wellington in case you are looking for something a little bit more relaxed. Here are our top tips for places to stay in Wellington thanks to our GO Explorers!

InterContinental Wellington

Like Auckland, Wellington is not short on chain hotels and all the big boys are here. It’s too easy for us to recommend these places even though they often pop up thanks to our GO Explore fans. If you are going to stay in one, the InterContinental Wellington seems to be the number one pick amongst our followers. Located in a pretty amazing looking building, the InterContinental is not short on luxury and elegance as well as enjoying an awesome location right on the waterfront. All the feedback seems to point towards an awesome experience from check in to check out so if you are looking to splurge, this is the place for you.

Bella Vista Motel Wellington

Motels are not as easy to come by in and around the major cities of New Zealand but the Bella Vista in Wellington is a little cracker. Located just minutes from the airport and a short drive from downtown Wellington, the Bella Vista Motel is a Qualmark 4 star motel. Free parking is a big draw card for many travelers and the close proximity to the city mean that this is a great place to base yourself for a weekend away in the city, especially if you have a car to get you in and out of town and beyond. We are delighted to welcome Bella Vista Motels as an exclusive GO Play partner meaning when you rent your car with GO Rentals, you can save 10% at any of their 27 properties nationwide. Boom!

Ohtel Wellington

If you are looking for more of a boutique hotel experience, then Ohtel Wellington could be right up your street. The hotel has just 10 rooms and its main draw is its location in the Oriental Bay neighbourhood. The hotel is an award-winner and we seem to see a lot of people commenting on the bathrooms which are meant to be amazing. The rooms also feature all the latest gadgets from the flat screen tvs to the Tivoli speakers. The devil’s in the detail with Ohtel and no stone has been left unturned. If you can get yourself in to one of the 10 rooms, you won’t be disappointed.

YHA Wellington

We know we get a lot of customers who are looking to tour New Zealand on a budget – we totally get it but that doesn’t mean you have to slum it. The quality and variety of backpacker accommodation in New Zealand has really upped its game and the YHA in Wellington is a great example. Sure they’ve got your standard dorm-style accommodation but they also have some great options for couples and families travelling on a budget including triple, twin, double and ensuite rooms. This place is a multi-award winner and as well as picking up Trip Advisor and Hostel World Award, they have also picked up some awards for their responsible tourism and sustainability so they’re also thinking of the planet too. Spot on.

Moana Lodge - Plimmerton

As we said in the intro, not everyone wants to stay right in the heart of the city. If you are looking for something a bit quieter and more laid back, Moana Lodge in the suburb of Plimmerton is perfect. With most of the rooms enjoying a sea view, this place has a distinctly homely feel about it. The city is a short 20 minute drive or bus/train ride away so you’re not far from the action. This place is a five star backpackers lodge which has a fully equipped farmhouse kitchen which is perfect for those who want to cook some of your own meals. There’s free WiFi throughout and free on street parking which all help to keep your costs down.

Brackenridge Country Retreat and Spa

Well, well, well. This place sounds a bit fancy doesn’t it?! Told you we were going to throw in some crackers and whilst this one may not be on the cheap side, it’s on the amazing side! Situated in the gorgeous town on Martinborough in the heart of Wellington’s wine growing region, Brackenridge is a truly stunning place if you are looking for a romantic getaway. There are some great accommodation options from the 2 and 4 bed cottages to the studio rooms. As you would expect, the spa and leisure facilities are amazing so if you are looking to relax, unwind and get away from it all, this is your place!

Best places to eat out in Wellington

Auckland is often thought of as New Zealand’s best place to eat out but we reckon Wellington is right up there. We may not have as many celebrity chefs down here in the capital but what we lack in celebrity, we more than make up for in superb local produce. Wellington is like no other place in New Zealand when it comes to access to some of the country’s finest produce. Most of the capital’s best restaurants pride themselves on serving up locally sourced dishes that are inspired by the seasons – that’s what keeps things special and the ever-changing menus mean no two trips to the capital are the same. Here are some of our GO Explorer favourites.

Best beaches in Wellington

Wellington and the surrounding area is spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches. It’s not always something you associate with the capital but don’t underestimate the beauty of the beaches in Wellington – they’ve got some of the best in New Zealand. Whether it’s taking a stroll to Oriental Bay or perhaps taking a drive further afield to the Kapiti Coast, there’s definitely something for all beach lovers in Wellington. Here are our favourites:

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