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111

For all emergencies.

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550,600 (2024)

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UTC+12 until 3:00am on 28Sep25, then UTC+13

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Port Essentials

Everything you need to know for your visit to Wellington.

Cruise Terminal

Address Aotea Quay, Wellington, Greater Wellington, 6011, New Zealand
Distance to CBD 2 km (1.2 miles)
Tender Required No
Walk Off/Shuttle Walk Off
Notes Cruise ships dock at Aotea Quay, which is approximately a 20 minute walk or a short shuttle ride from the city center.

General Information

Current Offset UTC+12
Daylight Saving Start Sunday, 28 September 2025 at 3:00am local time. The offset moves to UTC+13.
Daylight Saving End Sunday, 5 April 2026 at 2:00am local time. The offset moves to UTC+12.
Primary Local Currency

New Zealand dollar (NZD $).

Currency Conversions

Below we've listed some conversion rates for the New Zealand dollar against popular international currencies. The exchange rates are based on 100 NZD, are refreshed once per day and were last updated on 03 Jul 2025

Currency Equivalent
USD 60.66
EUR 51.61
GBP 44.45
AUD 92.32
CAD 82.28
JPY 8799.59
CNY 434.86

To convert custom amounts, or to see the exchange rate of the New Zealand dollar against different currencies, try our currency converter by clicking the button below.

Credit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted throughout Wellington While American Express is accepted at major supermarkets and retailers, it may not be as readily accepted at smaller businesses or can incur additional fees.

Tap-and-pay options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely available, supported by major banks and accepted at most retailers where contactless payments are available.

Overall expectation Tipping is not customary or expected in Wellington, as workers are generally paid a living wage.
Weekdays 09:00 AM - 05:30 PM
Saturdays 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Sundays 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Notes

Shops are generally closed on Christmas Day, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday. On Anzac Day, shops can open from 1:00pm.

Always check with individual stores for their specific hours, especially around holidays and special events.

Wellington, New Zealand, offers several convenient public Wi-Fi locations - though options may be a bit more limited than in other major cities, with no major city supported WiFi network (as of 2025):

  • Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa: Known for its strong and fast free Wi-Fi, especially in its cafés and public gathering areas.

  • Wellington Central Library: Currently under redevelopment, but past branches and pop-up library services have offered reliable free Wi-Fi. Check Wellington City Libraries for the latest information.

  • Zealandia Ecosanctuary: One of Wellington’s most unique eco-attractions provides free Wi-Fi throughout the sanctuary.

  • Tomboy Café: This locally loved spot in Mt Victoria is popular for its good food and reliable free Wi-Fi.

  • WiFi Map – Wellington: A crowd-sourced directory of Wi-Fi spots around the city, including cafes, shops, and public spaces. Always check with the venue before connecting.

A note of caution: Public Wi-Fi is convenient, but it’s not always secure. Avoid logging into sensitive accounts or entering personal information when connected to open networks. Consider using a VPN for additional security.

PortQuest recommends Nomad eSIM

Whether you're checking maps, messaging friends, or booking last-minute tours, staying connected matters. That’s why we recommend Nomad eSIMs — one of the best travel eSIMs on the market (and we've tried a few!)

Nomad offers reliable, affordable data in over 100 countries, including most cruise ports. No physical SIM swap, no roaming surprises — just install and go.

Get a Nomad eSIM
Outlets Type I
Voltage 230V/240V at 50Hz
Outlet and Plug
Electrical outlet

Transportation

Below is a list of common transport options for cruise ship visitors. We haven't included every possible choice — public transport, for example, is not listed since most visitors won't need it for a short, one-day stay.

Ride-share

Uber

Website: Click here.

Wellington is considered highly walkable for visitors due to its compact city center, well-maintained pedestrian infrastructure, and ease of access to key attractions.

The city's walkability is further enhanced by initiatives promoting pedestrian-friendly spaces and efficient public transport options for longer distances. While the hilly terrain might present a challenge in some areas, the overall experience is generally positive for those exploring on foot.

Wellington is considered highly walkable for visitors due to its compact city center, well-maintained pedestrian infrastructure, and ease of access to key attractions.

The city's walkability is further enhanced by initiatives promoting pedestrian-friendly spaces and efficient public transport options for longer distances. While the hilly terrain might present a challenge in some areas, the overall experience is generally positive for those exploring on foot.

Safety & Health

Universal

Call 111

Notes: For all emergencies: fire, police, ambulance.

Current Travel Advisory for New Zealand.

Level 1 – Exercise Normal Safety Precautions

The security environment is similar to that of a large Australian city.

  • Use common sense and look out for suspicious behaviour.
  • Monitor media for changes to local conditions.
  • Check entry requirements before you travel.

Not sure what these levels mean? Learn more about travel advice levels.

Smartraveller is the official travel advice service of the Australian Government. While primarily aimed at Australian citizens, PortQuest believes it offers practical, up-to-date safety guidance for travellers worldwide. See the full advisory on Smartraveller.gov.au .

Last updated: 17 Mar 2025

Safe to drink? Yes
Precautions Tap water is generally safe to drink in urban areas of Wellington. In rural areas or when hiking, it's essential to treat water from natural sources before drinking.


Weather

Monthly weather in Wellington
°C °F
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Maximum Temp 19.2 19.2 18 16.3 14.7 12.9 11.9 12 12.9 14.3 15.8 17.8
Minimum Temp 15.1 15.3 14.1 12.9 11.4 9.7 8.7 8.9 9.6 10.6 12.1 14
Avg Rainfall (mm) 51 66 69 91 91 103 93 97 88 77 75 80
Avg Rainy Days 8 7 9 10 12 12 12 14 12 12 10 11
Daylight Hours 14.8 13.7 12.4 11 9.8 9.2 9.5 10.5 11.8 13.2 14.4 15.1
Avg UV Index 9.1 8.5 7.3 5.5 3.8 2.6 3 4.5 6.2 7.7 8.7 9

Best Time to Visit

Cruise ships usually just spend one precious day in port — and we want to help you make the most of it.

To give you the best chance of an enjoyable visit, we’ve created a custom “Best Time to Visit” score for each month, unique to each destination. The score is calculated using factors that are likely to matter the most:

  • Comfortable temperatures
  • Lower rainfall and fewer rainy days
  • More daylight hours
  • Moderate UV levels

Each score is based on historical monthly averages and adjusted for each port’s climate. We weight the above factors — for example, long daylight hours and fewer wet days matter more when you're only ashore for part of the day. That's also why no month gets a 10/10, as there's always a trade-off. For example, warmer weather and clear skies comes with higher UV (and more sweat!).

This chart isn't meant to suggest that a port is bad to visit outside the highest rated months — each season provides something memorable for each location. But if you’re deciding when to cruise, this will hopefully give you the best chance of having perfect weather on your visit.

Best Time To Visit

Temperature Chart

Monthly Max/Min Temperature Chart

Rainfall Chart

Monthly Rainfall & Rainy Days Chart

UV Index Chart

Monthly UV Index Chart

1–2: Low

3–5: Moderate

6–7: High

8–10: Very High

>10: Extreme



Tours & Experiences

Each tour you see below has been selected for cruise ship visitors. For example, each tour has Free Cancellation, as most of us have experiened the stress of trying to refund a tour when a port visit is cancelled or an itinerary changed on short notice. They're also no more than 6 hours in length, leaving you plenty of time to make dinner on the ship, or explore the port further on foot.

By booking through our links, you help support PortQuest and allow us to continue providing valuable content to enhance your port visits (at no extra cost to you).

Top Attractions

Discover the top attractions in Wellington, selected for cruise passengers!

Wellington Botanic Garden
4.9 (309)
View Details
Cuba Street
4.9 (226)
View Details
Mt. Victoria Lookout
4.8 (2572)
View Details
Te Papa (Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa)
4.8 (1556)
View Details
Old St. Paul's
4.8 (1440)
View Details
CentrePort Wellington
4.8 (1670)
View Details

PortQuest Picks

Our team has hand-selected these tours to showcase the best and most unforgettable experiences each port has to offer — ones we've either personally enjoyed or have at the top of our bucket list.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Browse Tours

Spectacular Wellington: Full Day Private Sightseeing Tour
Spectacular Wellington: Full Day Private Sightseeing Tour

Get connected with the Wellington that locals love. Kia ora, we are Jo & Suzee. We create fabulous & fun private Wellington tours and shore excursions tailore...

$254 USD (≈ 418 NZD)
4h 0m
5.0 (87)
Find out more
Wellington Guided eBike Tour-Cruise Shore Excursion
Wellington Guided eBike Tour-Cruise Shore Excursion

From the centrally located Waterfront to the quiet bays and panoramic lookouts, you’ll be enthralled from start to finish. These quality electric bikes are easy...

$90 USD (≈ 148 NZD)
3h 0m
5.0 (100)
Find out more
Spectacular Wellington: Half Day Private Sightseeing Tour
Spectacular Wellington: Half Day Private Sightseeing Tour

Get connected with the Wellington that locals love. Kia ora, we are Jo & Suzee. We create fabulous & fun private Wellington tours and shore excursions tailore...

$193 USD (≈ 319 NZD)
2h 0m
5.0 (71)
Find out more
Guided Wellington Tour by Electric Bike
Guided Wellington Tour by Electric Bike

Choose a Morning or Afternoon Departure. From the centrally located Waterfront to the quiet bays and panoramic lookouts, you’ll be enthralled from start to fin...

$90 USD (≈ 148 NZD)
3h 0m
4.9 (205)
Find out more
Wellington Region Full Day Private Tour: Get out of the City
Wellington Region Full Day Private Tour: Get out of the City

Get connected with more of the Wellington that locals love. Kia ora, we are Jo & Suzee. We create fabulous & fun private tours and shore excursions tailored j...

$272 USD (≈ 448 NZD)
4h 0m
5.0 (27)
Find out more
Wellington City and Sea: Private Tour in Electric Tesla SUV
Wellington City and Sea: Private Tour in Electric Tesla SUV

Our guests enjoy travelling in the comfort and luxury of electric Tesla SUVs , with zero emissions. We provide a private tour for you, offering flexibility in t...

$178 USD (≈ 294 NZD)
4h 0m
5.0 (23)
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Exclusive Martinborough Wine Tour, Chef's lunch from Wellington
Exclusive Martinborough Wine Tour, Chef's lunch from Wellington

Exclusive Kosher Wine Experience in Wairarapa's Premier Vineyards – Just 75 Minutes from Wellington Immerse yourself in the authentic flavours of New Zealand's ...

$272 USD (≈ 448 NZD)
6h 0m
4.9 (51)
Find out more
Remutaka Rail Trail Mountain Bike Explorer Cycle Tour
Remutaka Rail Trail Mountain Bike Explorer Cycle Tour

Discover the Remutaka area’s rich rail history and natural beauty on an easy, all-inclusive, 6 hour mountain biking day trip. The flagship of the Remutaka Cycle...

$109 USD (≈ 179 NZD)
6h 0m
4.9 (47)
Find out more
Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast
Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast

A unique and exciting exploration to Wellington’s secret coast. With exclusive access through private farmland, we'll take you on a journey to discover Wellingt...

$118 USD (≈ 194 NZD)
3h 30m
4.9 (255)
Find out more
Wellington in a Nutshell Capital Highlights Private 5 hour tour
Wellington in a Nutshell Capital Highlights Private 5 hour tour

Discover Wellington's breath-taking vistas through our expertly curated City Heights Tour. This signature experience showcases New Zealand's capital from its th...

$127 USD (≈ 209 NZD)
5h 0m
4.9 (39)
Find out more
Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Explorer Cycle Tour
Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Explorer Cycle Tour

Discover the Remutaka Ranges' rich rail history & natural beauty on an eBike (electric bike). The flagship daytrip of the Remutaka Cycle Trail, this is suitable...

$127 USD (≈ 209 NZD)
6h 0m
5.0 (12)
Find out more
Discover Wellington 3 hour City Tour
Discover Wellington 3 hour City Tour

Join us on this 3hr journey into the story of Wellington, where we share the history, culture, conservation and place in the world of Te-Whanagnui-a-Tara - the ...

$54 USD (≈ 89 NZD)
3h 0m
4.9 (112)
Find out more
Remutaka Rail Trail Explorer - eBike Cruise Ship Shore Excursion
Remutaka Rail Trail Explorer - eBike Cruise Ship Shore Excursion

Discover the Remutaka area’s rich rail history and natural beauty on an eBike (electric bike) day trip. The flagship of the Remutaka Cycle Trail, this trail is ...

$127 USD (≈ 209 NZD)
6h 0m
5.0 (9)
Find out more
Wellington Shore Excursion: From Cave to Coast Highlights Private Tour
Wellington Shore Excursion: From Cave to Coast Highlights Private Tour

A 5 hour guided highlights tour of coastal Wellington. Tour highlights include spectacular views at the Mount Victoria Lookout, a scenic coastal drive from Orie...

$155 USD (≈ 255 NZD)
5h 0m
5.0 (9)
Find out more
Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Explorer Cycle Tour
Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Explorer Cycle Tour

Discover the Remutaka Ranges' rich rail history & natural beauty on an eBike (electric bike). The flagship daytrip of the Remutaka Cycle Trail, this is suitable...

$127 USD (≈ 209 NZD)
6h 0m
5.0 (9)
Find out more
Half Day Tour in Wellington
Half Day Tour in Wellington

Your opportunity to visit locations in Wellington that you simply couldn't make on foot. All accompanied by a local, educated driver who hopes to crack at least...

$75 USD (≈ 124 NZD)
3h 30m
4.9 (48)
Find out more
Martinborough Winery Private Tour
Martinborough Winery Private Tour

Enjoy a 5 hour guided tour over the Remutaka Ranges to Martinborough, one of New Zealand's premier wine regions. Visit three of the regions best wineries and en...

$143 USD (≈ 235 NZD)
5h 0m
4.9 (19)
Find out more
Private Tour in Wellington
Private Tour in Wellington

The highlights of Wellington on a personalized 4.5hour private tour. Take in stunning panoramic views from Mt Victoria, the famous Te Papa Museum, and indulge i...

$601 USD (≈ 991 NZD)
4h 0m
5.0 (5)
Find out more
Full Day Guided Wellington Tour
Full Day Guided Wellington Tour

During our tour, we provide opportunities to get out of the vehicle, stretch your legs & get some fresh air. Our friendly guides will even be your photographer ...

$151 USD (≈ 249 NZD)
6h 0m
5.0 (5)
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Lord of the Rings 1/2 day Tour to rule them all
Lord of the Rings 1/2 day Tour to rule them all

We squeeze loads of Lord of the Rings magic in to this one! Recreate some of the most iconic scenes from the trilogy as we visit the location for the first day ...

$112 USD (≈ 184 NZD)
3h 30m
5.0 (3)
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Private Wellington Craft Beer Half Day Tour
Private Wellington Craft Beer Half Day Tour

You've heard about Wellington's Craft beer reputation, now discover it for yourself. We take you to four of Wellington's finest breweries for tastings and the s...

$145 USD (≈ 239 NZD)
4h 0m
4.9 (9)
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Wellington’s Food Walking Odyssey
Wellington’s Food Walking Odyssey

Discover the ultimate Walking Food Tour in New Zealand's Coolest capital city, Wellington,experience the unique food and drink explosion that has made Wellingto...

$151 USD (≈ 249 NZD)
3h 30m
4.8 (44)
Find out more
Wellington Craft Brewery Half Day Tour
Wellington Craft Brewery Half Day Tour

Visit three of Wellington and the Hutt Valley’s best craft breweries with tastings at each location. Enjoy a range of locally made craft beers at each location ...

$100 USD (≈ 164 NZD)
4h 0m
4.8 (25)
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Private custom tour with a local guide Wellington
Private custom tour with a local guide Wellington

Get to know the city through the eyes of a local guide. With no set itinerary, you can customize the tour or leave it to the local for an enlightening introduct...

$134 USD (≈ 220 NZD)
3h 0m
5.0 (1)
Find out more
Craft beers & car museum - Half Day Tour
Craft beers & car museum - Half Day Tour

A little bit of something for everyone in this tour, with the highlight being visiting a local car museum. Access to Cars Inc is exclusive to Ka Rawe Tours. We...

$100 USD (≈ 164 NZD)
3h 30m
5.0 (1)
Find out more
From Cave to Coast Wellington Highlights Tour
From Cave to Coast Wellington Highlights Tour

A 5 hour guided highlights tour of coastal Wellington. Tour highlights include spectacular views at the Mount Victoria Lookout, a scenic coastal drive from Orie...

$121 USD (≈ 199 NZD)
5h 0m
4.8 (206)
Find out more
 Wellington in a Nutshell Capital Highlights Experience 3&5 hrs
Wellington in a Nutshell Capital Highlights Experience 3&5 hrs

Discover Wellington's breathtaking vistas through our expertly curated City Heights Tour. This signature experience showcases New Zealand's capital from its thr...

$39 USD (≈ 64 NZD)
3h 0m
4.8 (171)
Find out more
Remutaka Rail Trail Mountain Bike Explorer Cycle Tour
Remutaka Rail Trail Mountain Bike Explorer Cycle Tour

Discover the Remutaka Ranges' rich rail history & natural beauty on a mountain bike. The flagship daytrip of the Remutaka Cycle Trail, this is suitable for ride...

$109 USD (≈ 179 NZD)
6h 0m
4.8 (28)
Find out more
Remutaka Rail Trail Explorer - eBike Cruise Ship Shore Excursion
Remutaka Rail Trail Explorer - eBike Cruise Ship Shore Excursion

Discover the Remutaka area’s rich rail history and natural beauty on an eBike (electric bike) day trip. The flagship of the Remutaka Cycle Trail, this trail is ...

$127 USD (≈ 209 NZD)
6h 0m
4.7 (3)
Find out more
Taste Buds Tour: Petone - Half Day
Taste Buds Tour: Petone - Half Day

Discover the locally made treats and secret foodie spots in Petone, one of the oldest settlements in Wellington. This 5-hour tour gives your taste buds a thrill...

$161 USD (≈ 266 NZD)
5h 0m
4.8 (8)
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Half Day Martinborough Winery Tour from Wellington
Half Day Martinborough Winery Tour from Wellington

Experience a 5.5-hour guided tour to Martinborough, one of New Zealand's premier wine regions. Departing from Wellington, the tour follows the Hutt River thro...

$112 USD (≈ 184 NZD)
5h 30m
4.8 (405)
Find out more
6hr Martinborough Chefs shared wine tour ŵ lunch from Wellington
6hr Martinborough Chefs shared wine tour ŵ lunch from Wellington

Feel like your on Holiday with a leisurely lunch accompanied by 3 wine tastings. Your Chef guide will accompany you through the best things in life in New Zeala...

$230 USD (≈ 378 NZD)
5h 0m
4.6 (5)
Find out more
 Wētā Workshop Guided Transfers & Tour
Wētā Workshop Guided Transfers & Tour

Enter the world of Wētā Workshop with the Wētā Workshop Experience + Guided Transfers, a guided round trip by Wētā Workshop! You’ll enjoy return transfers from ...

$60 USD (≈ 99 NZD)
3h 30m
4.8 (115)
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Martinborough Foodie Half Day Tour
Martinborough Foodie Half Day Tour

Experience a 5-hour guided tour over the stunning Remutaka Ranges to the Wairarapa region, renowned for its world-class culinary producers. Just an hour’s drive...

$109 USD (≈ 179 NZD)
5h 0m
4.7 (95)
Find out more
Half Day Tour of Wellington
Half Day Tour of Wellington

Must See and Fun Tour of Wellington Where your Wellington adventure begins … Features include: • Downtown entertainment area of Wellington • Mt Victoria • ...

$77 USD (≈ 127 NZD)
3h 20m
4.7 (624)
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Half Day Lord of the Rings Tour
Half Day Lord of the Rings Tour

We make our way up to the Mount Victoria Lookout to see spectacular views of Wellington’s city by driving up Courtenay Place, past the Embassy Picture Theatre w...

$115 USD (≈ 189 NZD)
3h 30m
4.7 (114)
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 Exclusive Wellington Sightseeing Private Tour
Exclusive Wellington Sightseeing Private Tour

We offer a private sightseeing tour with our knowledgeable and experienced guides. We drive you in our luxury vehicles. Wellington is an awesome city to explore...

$603 USD (≈ 995 NZD)
5h 0m
4.0 (5)
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Full Day Lord of the Rings Tour
Full Day Lord of the Rings Tour

First stop, Dry Creek Quarry site of Helm’s Deep and Minas Tirith. Then River Anduin where the Fellowship travelled to Amon Hen, Gardens of Isengard -Gandalf m...

$178 USD (≈ 294 NZD)
6h 0m
4.6 (143)
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Wellington's Original HD LOTR Experience - includes Weta Tour
Wellington's Original HD LOTR Experience - includes Weta Tour

Descend into the forested slopes of the Outer Shire, where our expert guides will entertain you with stories of how the Lord of the Rings movies were brought to...

$106 USD (≈ 174 NZD)
3h 30m
4.6 (294)
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Wellington Travel Map

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Legend

  • Terminal icon Cruise Terminal
  • Restaurant icon Restaurants
  • Bar/Pub icon Bars & Pubs
  • Hospital icon Hospitals (Emergency)
  • Pharmacy icon Pharmacies
  • Attraction icon General Attractions
  • Museum/Gallery icon Museums & Galleries
  • Zoo icon Zoos