Family friendly things to do in Wellington
From captivating museums to scenic waterfront walks, New Zealand's capital city is a playground for families of all ages. In this handy guide, we'll share some of the best Family friendly things to do in Wellington that promise to make your New Zealand road trip unforgettable.
From indoor activities in Wellington for those unpredictable weather days, to outdoor adventures exploring the city's natural beauty, there's something for everyone. Whether you're travelling in a camper or motorhome and need a New Zealand itinerary that ticks all the boxes, Wellington's vibrant scene won't disappoint.
Family activities to do in Wellington
From glow-worm walks to hands-on museums, Wellington packs a holiday’s worth of adventure into one compact city. Browse the ideas below and plan a day the whole family will rave about.
Meet the animals at Staglands Wildlife Reserve
An hour’s scenic drive into the Akatarawa Valley puts you at the gates of Staglands, a hands-on wildlife park where kids can bottle-feed lambs, hand-feed friendly deer and wander an aviary filled with colourful natives. Paths are pram friendly, there is a picnic lawn beside the stream and the on-site café does solid coffee for the grown-ups. The reserve is open every day from 9.30 am to 5 pm. Though also accessible from The Kapiti Coast, Staglands is easiest to reach via the Hutt Valley, especially for large campervans.
Watch the seal colony at Red Rocks
Drive fifteen minutes around the south coast, park at Owhiro Bay and follow the flat 7 km coastal track to piles of red-tinged pillow lava rocks. From May to October a bachelor colony of New Zealand fur seals hauls out here, snoozing on the rocks between splashes. Bring binoculars and keep at least ten metres back. The sea views alone make the stroll worthwhile even when the seals are elsewhere.
Hike on Mount Victoria
Witnessing the sunrise from Mount Victoria is a magical experience for any family visiting Wellington. This iconic landmark, just a few minutes drive from the heart of the city, is the perfect spot to greet the day.
The panoramic view is not only breathtaking but also provides a unique way to see Wellington from above. The gentle hike to the summit is family-friendly and a great way for everyone to engage with nature.
Hunt for glow-worms in the Botanic Garden
After dark the gullies of Wellington Botanic Garden come alive with titiwai glow-worms. Join a guided walk (spring is best after rain), carry a torch for the steps and watch thousands of blue-green dots twinkle beside the paths. Guides explain the life-cycle and how to spot the sticky threads. It is eerie, educational and right in the centre of town.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Create at Capital E
For families looking for fun and creative children’s activities in Wellington, Capital E is a must-visit destination. Located in the heart of the city at Queens Wharf, this unique spot is dedicated to sparking the imagination of children through interactive experiences and creative play.
Capital E offers a wide range of activities that cater to children of all ages. Kids can explore digital workshops and delve into the world of multimedia and technology. There are also fantastic performance spaces where they can express themselves through drama, music, and dance.
Explore Wellington Zoo
A visit to the zoo is one of the most popular things to do in Wellington for families. As New Zealand's first zoo, it's not only rich in history but also in its commitment to conservation and animal care. A visit here is both educational and entertaining, making it a perfect stop on your travel itinerary.
The zoo spans over 32 acres and is home to a diverse range of animals from around the globe. One of the highlights of Wellington Zoo is its interactive encounters. The zoo also offers a range of family friendly facilities with plenty of picnic areas, a playground, and cafes.
Go behind the scenes at Wētā Workshop
For families with a love for the magic of movies, Wētā Workshop is an unmissable destination. Renowned globally for its special effects and prop production, Wētā Workshop offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of movie magic, right in the heart of New Zealand's film industry.
Wētā is famed for its work on blockbuster films like The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, and Avatar, and a visit here reveals the artistry and innovation behind these cinematic masterpieces. The guided tours provide an insider's look at the creation of movie props, costumes, and creatures, showcasing the incredible skill and creativity of the Wētā team.
Wander predator-free Zealandia
Just minutes from downtown Wellington, Zealandia is an extraordinary eco-sanctuary dedicated to the restoration of New Zealand's native flora and fauna. As you explore the sanctuary, you'll be enveloped in a prehistoric New Zealand landscape.
A haven where rare native birds like the kākā and takahē roam freely. The lush, green surroundings are a perfect backdrop for a family adventure, with well-maintained tracks and walkways making it accessible for all ages.
Make chocolate at Wellington Chocolate Factory
For a sweet addition to your Wellington itinerary, the Wellington Chocolate Factory will have your mouth watering. Located on Eva Street in the heart of the city, this artisan chocolate factory is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a fascinating journey into the world of chocolate making. The factory is known for its commitment to quality and sustainability, using organic, ethically sourced ingredients to create its range of delicious chocolates.
Learn at Te Papa
New Zealand's innovative and interactive national museum, Te Papa Tongarewa is a cornerstone of Wellington's cultural landscape. Located on Cable Street, this museum is a treasure trove of knowledge and experiences, making it a fascinating stop for families exploring Wellington. The exhibitions cover a wide array of topics, from the astonishing dinosaurs of Patagonia to the vibrant stories of Pacific people in New Zealand.
Swim and scoot at Oriental Bay
Golden sand trucked in from the South Island, calm harbour water and a wide promenade for scooters make Oriental Parade the city’s favourite beach. Lifeguards patrol in summer, kayaks are for hire and Freyberg Pool sits right behind the dunes for a post-swim shower. Free parking stretches along the parade if you arrive early.
The beach is ideal for swimming, with its calm waters providing a safe environment for children to splash around and play. The bay also offers other water activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding, making it a great place for families to try something new together.
Stargazing at Space Place
Housed in the heritage Carter Observatory, Space Place runs seated planetarium shows by day and telescope viewings on clear Tuesday, Friday and Saturday nights. Exhibits explain Māori star lore and the daring of the Apollo missions, while the hillside setting beside the cable-car lookout is perfect for postcard photos. This state-of-the-art planetarium is a gateway to the wonders of the cosmos. The digital, full-dome planetarium screen showcases a range of shows suitable for all ages, featuring breathtaking images of planets, stars, and galaxies.
Burn energy at Waitangi Park
A vibrant and spacious public park in Wellington, Waitangi Park is a fantastic spot for families to unwind and play. Located nice and close to the city's waterfront, this six-hectare park features a modern playground that's a hit with children. With innovative play equipment, including swings, slides, and climbing structures, it provides a safe and fun environment for kids to explore and enjoy.
Sail to Days Bay on the harbour ferry
The East by West ferry leaves Queens Wharf up to sixteen times a day for a relaxed 25-minute crossing to Days Bay. Eastbourne is a haven for relaxation and outdoor activities. Days Bay, in particular, is a popular spot with a lovely beach, perfect for a family picnic or a swim in the sea. Nearby Williams Park is another great spot for families, with ample green space and a playground for children.
To start your adventure, park your campervan at one of the convenient parking areas near the Wellington waterfront. The ferry terminal is located centrally along the waterfront, making it a hassle-free experience for families.
Family friendly campgrounds in Wellington
After busy days in the city, these holiday parks make bedtime easy.
Wellington TOP 10 Holiday Park, Lower Hutt
Nestled on the banks of the Hutt River, Wellington TOP 10 Holiday Park combines spacious, family-friendly grounds with easy bus links into central Wellington. Kids can burn off steam on the jumping pillow or in the games room while parents fire up the BBQs or relax by the picnic lawns overlooking the river.
Facilities: Powered sites and motel units, jumping pillow, playgrounds and games room, on-site laundry and communal kitchen
Capital Gateway Motor Inn & Caravan Park, Newlands
Set among leafy hills just north of the city, Capital Gateway Motor Inn & Caravan park offers a peaceful base only minutes from the Interislander terminal and downtown. Spacious, grassed sites sit alongside a covered kitchen and picnic area, making it easy to roll in after a day of sightseeing.
Facilities: Twenty-seven powered campervan sites with modern bathrooms, on-site restaurant, covered kitchen and picnic area, guest laundry
Paekākāriki Holiday Park, Kāpiti Coast
A calm coastal retreat forty minutes north via SH1, Paekākāriki Holiday Park sits steps from a safe swimming beach and a shallow stream perfect for paddling. Shaded sites and family cabins make it ideal for summer stays, with the Kapiti Coast’s attractions just around the corner.
Facilities: Large powered sites and family cabins, beach access, paddling stream and shade trees, direct SH1 access for day trips
Image: Tourism New Zealand
The best way to explore Wellington
Hiring an Apollo campervan turns the city into an easy, budget-friendly adventure. Your kitchen and bunks travel with you, parking beside the waterfront for breakfast one morning and at the foot of the hills the next. No hotel check-ins, no restaurant bills and no need to repack every day.
Where to pick up your Apollo campervan
Auckland to Wellington road trip
Start at Apollo’s Auckland branch, 470 Oruarangi Road, Māngere. It sits 6 km from Auckland Airport and about 20 km from the CBD. Pick up the keys, stock the fridge and head south on State Highway 1. Allow three to six days to enjoy highlights such as Hobbiton, the geothermal wonders of Rotorua and the Tongariro Alpine Crossing before rolling into Wellington city.
Christchurch to Wellington via the Cook Strait ferry
If you want to begin on the South Island, collect your campervan at Apollo’s Christchurch branch, 159 Orchard Road near the airport. From here it is a scenic 340 km drive to Picton. Book a spot on either the Interislander or Bluebridge ferry, both of which welcome campervans. The crossing takes around three and a half hours, and kids can watch for dolphins as you glide through the Marlborough Sounds.
Tip: Reserve ferry tickets early in school holidays and have your vehicle length handy when booking.
Ready to explore Wellington?
With so many great things to do in Wellington, it really is the perfect destination for a family campervan holiday. Don’t put it off any longer, book your Apollo campervan online today and get ready to explore the coolest little capital.