Thorndon
Wellington
Popular places to visit
St Paul's Cathedral
Built over nearly half a century, this earthquake-proof cathedral is filled with stunning works of art and is among the most sacred sites in Wellington.
National Library
See the vast collection of books and use the interactive exhibits to learn about a young nation’s history at New Zealand’s most important library.
Te Papa
Get hands on as you learn about the heritage of these islands at New Zealand's free national museum.
Cuba Street Mall
Enjoy artisan coffees, sample specialty foods, browse through vintage shops or hunt for retro bargains in Wellington's bohemian heart.
Wellington Central Business District
Wellington Central Business District is just one of the places to see in Wellington, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Experience the fascinating museums and acclaimed art galleries in this walkable area.
Courtenay Place
Shop, wine and dine in this culinary hot spot on one of Wellington's most fashionable streets.
Things to do
Wellington: Return Cable Car Ticket
Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast
Wellington city heights shared sightseeing tour
Wellington's Original HD LOTR Experience - includes Weta Tour
Discover Wellington 3 hour City Tour
Top hotels in Thorndon
WQ Wellington Quarter
Brilliant
Reviewed on 29 Dec 2025
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
Great Location, staff friendly and efficient, parking good but could be cheaper.
Reviewed on 1 Jan 2026
Rydges Wellington Airport
Great for a 6am flight out to Aussie. Dropped bags in by 4am and went back to room. Excellent
Reviewed on 30 Dec 2025
Gilmer Apartment Hotel
Amenities was a delightful surprise (laundry wash/dry facilities)
Reviewed on 2 Jan 2026
Rydges Wellington
Staff was fantastic, hotel in a perfect Location, walking distance to bay, train station, shops etc etc, great breakfast and the drinks from the bar at the Hotel also fantastic
Reviewed on 2 Jan 2026
ibis Wellington
The staff were extremely friendly and helpful. The breakfast was one of the best we have seen at a hotel, with a lot of options. The room was very quiet and the location was good. The room was a bit outdated but clean, but the bed kept rolling away from the wall if we tried to sit up against the ...
Reviewed on 4 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Thorndon
Pipitea
If you're spending some time in Pipitea, Sky Stadium and Archives New Zealand are top sights worth seeing.
Wellington CBD
If you're spending some time in Wellington CBD, Wellington Cable Car and Museum of Wellington City and Sea are top sights worth seeing.
Kelburn
While visiting Kelburn, you might make a stop by sights like Botanic Gardens and Zealandia.
Wellington Waterfront
The abundant dining options and interesting museums are top of the list for many visitors to Wellington Waterfront. A stop by Te Papa or TSB Bank Arena might round out your trip.
Te Aro
Te Aro is known for its popular shops, and with sights like St James Theatre and Cuba Street Mall, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Wellington.
Oriental Bay
If you're spending some time in Oriental Bay, Oriental Bay Beach and Oriental Parade are top sights worth seeing.
