🗺️Best Things to Do in Te Aro 2026
3 of Wellington's best things to do, all in Te Aro — hand-picked and ranked by locals, led by Te Papa Tongarewa. Part of our independent Wellington things to do guide.
- #1Editor's Pick
Aotearoa's national museum — six floors of Māori taonga, the Gallipoli giants and the colossal squid, right on the waterfront. General admission is complimentary for New Zealanders and residents.
Local tip: It is far too big for one visit — pick two floors rather than trying to see everything, and save it for the day the weather turns.
55 Cable Street, Te Aro· Open daily 10am–6pm (closed Christmas Day)Free entryNational museumAll weatherFamily - #2
Cuba Street
Wellington's bohemian heart — the Bucket Fountain, vintage stores, vinyl, vegan kai and the city's most photographed street art.
Local tip: Costs nothing to wander, and it is the one part of town that is just as good in the evening as in the middle of the day.
Cuba Street, Te Aro· Always openShoppingStreet artCoffee - #3
The purpose-built exhibition centre directly across the road from Te Papa, hosting ticketed touring international exhibitions.
Local tip: Check what is on before you go — the building is worth a look but the draw is whichever touring exhibition is in residence.
50 Cable Street, Te Aro· See website for exhibitionsExhibitionsIndoorWaterfront
Frequently asked
What is the best things to do in Te Aro?
Te Papa Tongarewa is our top-ranked pick for things to do in Te Aro. Aotearoa's national museum — six floors of Māori taonga, the Gallipoli giants and the colossal squid, right on the waterfront. General admission is complimentary for New Zealanders and residents.
How many things to do are there in Te Aro?
We list 3 things to do in Te Aro, ranked independently by locals using real Google reviews.
