Planning a New Zealand road trip by campervan and looking for cheap or free things to do in Wellington? We’ve got you covered! In this helpful guide, we’ll share everything you need to know to plan a fantastic campervan holiday in Wellington without breaking the budget.
Where is Wellington?
Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, sits at the southern tip of the North Island. Nestled between the Tasman Sea and the Rimutaka Ranges, this city brings together the best of urban charm and natural beauty. And that makes it the perfect starting point or a must-visit destination for anyone keen to explore NZ.
What’s Wellington known for?
Wellington is perhaps best known as the political and cultural heart of New Zealand. Beyond its status as the capital, the city is celebrated for its thriving film industry, hosting the globally acclaimed Wētā Workshop. This creative hub has put Wellington on the map as an unmissable destination for those interested in New Zealand road trips focused on film and culture. Additionally, Wellington's vibrant arts scene, rich history, and dynamic culinary offerings make it a city that truly has something for everyone. Best of all, there’s no shortage of free and cheap activities in Wellington. From discovering the wonders of Te Papa Museum to wandering through the botanic gardens, you can easily spend a day exploring the city without breaking the bank.
What's the best way to travel to Wellington?
For an unforgettable journey through Wellington and its surroundings, booking a Mighty campervan hire is the way to go. Enjoy the flexibility and comfort that campervan travel offers, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Whether you're planning a comprehensive road trip itinerary or simply want the freedom to be spontaneous, renting a travel van gives you the perfect blend of adventure and convenience.
Let’s check out some of the best cheap and free things in Wellington worth adding to your road trip itinerary planner.
1. Discover movie magic at WētāCave
Immerse yourself in the magic of filmmaking with a visit to the Wētā Cave, a cornerstone of Wellington's renowned film industry. Located in the suburb of Miramar, Wētā Cave is a unique destination where creativity and technology meet. This awesome experience offers insights into the world of special effects and movie magic. It's a must-visit for film enthusiasts and a fascinating peek behind the scenes for anyone interested in the art of cinema. While there are also some great ticketed tours on offer, exploring the cave itself is free.
2. Wander the Botanic Gardens
Just a stone's throw from the bustling city centre, the Botanic Gardens are a fantastic, free Wellington attraction. Stroll through the gardens and you'll find yourself among colourful flower displays, lush native bush, and exotic plant collections. Highlights include the stunning Lady Norwood Rose Garden, the vibrant Begonia House, and the historically rich Bolton Street Memorial Park – all available to enjoy at no cost. For visitors interested in learning more about the gardens, free guided tours are often on offer, providing fascinating insights into the plant life and history of the area.
3. Learn something new at Te Papa
New Zealand's national museum, Te Papa Tongarewa, is a hub of knowledge and culture. One of the most popular free places to visit in Wellington, the museum is located on Cable Street with plenty of campervan parking. Te Papa offers a fascinating glimpse into New Zealand's history, culture, and natural environment. From the dynamic and interactive displays to the thought-provoking art exhibitions, there's always something new to learn and explore. Highlights include the Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War exhibition, which brings to life the stories of New Zealanders in World War I, and Tangata o le Moana, celebrating the history and culture of Pacific people in New Zealand.
4. Watch the sunset at Mount Victoria
Make your way to Mt Victoria for an unforgettable sunset experience in Wellington. Easily accessible by campervan, or a pleasant walk from Oriental Parade or Majoribanks Street, it's the perfect spot for an evening adventure. As you reach the summit, you'll be greeted with stunning 360-degree views of Wellington City and its harbour. It's an ideal place for capturing breathtaking photos or simply soaking in the vibrant hues of the sunset. The atmosphere here as the sun dips below the horizon is truly magical, making it a favourite spot for both locals and visitors.
Mt Victoria, also known as Tangi-te keo, is steeped in local legend, adding a layer of intrigue to your visit. The tales of taniwha shaping the harbour give the place a unique character and a sense of connection to Wellington's history.
5. Take a drive around the Bays
For a scenic drive that captures the essence of Wellington's coastal charm, take a drive around ‘the bays’. This easy-to-drive route offers up nearly 30 km of stunning waterfront views, perfect for a cruisy afternoon in your campervan. Starting at Queen’s Wharf in central Wellington, the route winds around several picturesque bays. You'll pass by the popular Oriental Bay, then continue around Evans Bay, offering fantastic views at every turn. The drive takes you all the way to the Massey Memorial at the end of the Miramar Peninsula, and then around to Breaker Bay and Lyall Bay. Along the way, there are plenty of spots to stop, stretch your legs, and take in the views. You'll find markers every 500 metres, making it easy to track your journey. If you're up for a bit more exploration, there are several parks and reserves along the route with additional paths and overlooks, especially on the east side of Miramar.
6. Take a fascinating walking tour
Discover the capital’s hidden gems and scenic beauty with a free walking tour of Wellington. The city offers a variety of trails that cater to all interests, whether you're into history, nature walks, or exploring the rugged coastline. Here are a couple worth checking out:
Download or pick up the Wellington Walks brochure that lists 20 recommended walks in Wellington. These walks range from easy inner-city walks focusing on cultural highlights like food, history, and art, to more adventurous trails.
The My Welly Walks App is a fantastic free guide to all the best tourist spots and hidden gems in Wellington. It features some of the city's walkways and a few inner-city walks, complete with images, simple maps, and instructions. Download it from iTunes and start exploring.
7. Take a free tour of the Beehive
Dive into the heart of New Zealand's political scene with a free guided tour of The Beehive, the country's iconic parliamentary building. These tours are a fantastic way to get an insider's view of how Parliament works, guided by knowledgeable hosts who bring the history and processes to life. Tours are available seven days per week, making it easy to fit into your New Zealand road trip schedule.
The most popular option is the 60-minute Introduction to Parliament tour, which runs multiple times throughout the day. It's a great way to get an inside look at our parliamentary processes, as well as the interesting architecture and history of the buildings. For families, the Kids in the House Tour is a fun, interactive 45-minute tour designed specifically for younger visitors, running on weekends and during school holidays. And for art enthusiasts, the Art and Objects Tour offers a unique 90-minute exploration of the parliamentary buildings, focusing on the diverse artworks and objects that adorn their walls.
8. Explore the Bolton Street Cemetery
Step back in time and explore Wellington's history at the Bolton Street Cemetery, the city's first burial ground dating back to 1840. One of the more unusual places to visit in Wellington for free, the cemetery itself is a beautiful, peaceful sanctuary. Over 1,300 carved and worn monuments line the paths. You'll find heritage roses, some dating back to colonial times, and other early plantings amongst the picket fences and wrought iron surrounds.
The Friends of Bolton Street Cemetery, a group of dedicated volunteers, work alongside the Wellington City Council to preserve and develop this heritage area. Open daily from 10 am to 4 pm, the Bolton Street Cemetery Museum is a treasure trove of exhibits and historical information. For those interested in the history of the First World War, the museum offers a First World War Memorial Walk pamphlet for a self-guided tour to find the graves and headstones of servicemen.
9. Swim at Oriental Bay
Oriental Bay Beach is well-loved for its golden sand and clear waters, making it a great spot for a refreshing swim or just to soak up the relaxed Wellington vibe. A cool feature of the bay is the Carter Fountain which can shoot water up to 16 meters into the air, adding to the scenic beauty of the area. The Southern Walkway, a popular walking track, begins at the northern end of Oriental Parade, offering a great opportunity to explore the area further. There's parking available along Oriental Parade and a car park beside the pool centre, so you should be able to find a handy spot to park your campervan.
10. Enjoy a wander along the waterfront
Heading down to Wellington's waterfront? You're in for a treat! Wellington’s waterfront is super easy to get to and absolutely worth the visit. The waterfront's always got something going on, from festivals to sports events, making it a lively part of Wellington's scene. It’s also a great spot to take in the harbour views or just watch people coming and going.
As you wander, keep an eye out for all the quirky artworks and sculptures dotted around. Got kids in tow? They'll love the playground at Frank Kitts Park, complete with a funky lighthouse. And for the older ones, Waitangi Park's skate park is a hit. Feeling peckish? The waterfront's lined with all sorts of places to grab a bite or a drink. From laid-back cafes to swanky restaurants, you're spoilt for choice. It's the perfect spot to chill and watch the world go by.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Budget-friendly campsites in Wellington
Now that you’ve got a great list of awesome things to do in Wellington for free, you’ll want a few top spots to stay.
Wellington Kiwi Holiday Park
Nestled in the scenic Akatarawa Valley, Wellington's Kiwi Holiday Park is a family-run gem set in 32 hectares of native bush and rural parkland. Located on the banks of the Hutt River in Upper Hutt, it's the perfect spot for a peaceful holiday or a stopover in your campervan. You'll be surrounded by native birdsong and the soothing flow of the Hutt River. The park offers powered and non-powered sites for campervans. Plus, it's eco-friendly, so you're doing your bit for the environment while enjoying your stay.
Paekakariki Holiday Park
Just 40 minutes north of Wellington, Paekakariki Holiday Park is a family-friendly haven located by a beautiful Kapiti Coast Beach. Offering 180 caravan, motorhome, and tent sites, this park is all about enjoying the great outdoors. The park offers modern, clean facilities and a range of fun activities for kids, including a playground, jumping pillow, and trampoline. It's a great spot for families looking to enjoy a beachside holiday in their campervan, with the added bonus of being close to Wellington.
Freedom camping in Wellington
Freedom camping is a fantastic way to enjoy Wellington’s natural beauty while travelling in your campervan. The city provides specific freedom camping sites where self-contained campervans can park for free, allowing you to make your Wellington budget go a bit further.
Evans Bay Marina Carpark: This picturesque spot is located along the waterfront, offering stunning views of the marina. It's a great place to park your campervan and enjoy the serene surroundings. The site is equipped with basic facilities and is perfect for those looking to stay close to the city while enjoying the tranquillity of the bay.
Te Kopahou Visitors Centre Carpark: Situated near the rugged south coast, this location is ideal for those who love the sea and want to explore Wellington's coastal landscapes. The carpark is a convenient spot to set up your campervan for a few nights, with easy access to nearby walking trails and beaches.
Both sites allow a maximum stay of four nights in any single calendar month, ensuring that everyone gets a chance to enjoy these popular spots. Remember to vacate the freedom camping site by 4 pm on your departure day to free up space for other campers. In addition to these free sites, Wellington also offers on-street parking in the central city, which is free from 8 pm to 8 am, and most on-street parking in the suburbs is free with no time restrictions.
For those looking for a paid option, Barnett St car park on the Wellington waterfront is available for $30 per 24 hours. This area is particularly convenient for those wanting to be close to the city's vibrant waterfront area.
Explore Wellington with Mighty
Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing day at the beach, Wellington's array of free and cheap activities makes it an ideal destination for travellers on a budget. And what better way to explore all these wonders than with the freedom and flexibility of a Mighty campervan?
With Mighty Campervans, you have the freedom to craft your perfect road trip itinerary, from soaking up the city's culture and heritage to exploring its stunning natural landscapes. Plus, with options for freedom camping and stays at great holiday parks, you can experience the best of Wellington at your own pace and in comfort.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Image: Tourism New Zealand