Wellington cable car climbing the hillside with harbour view

Wellington Cable Car & Botanic Garden

Wellington, New Zealand

Nature OutdoorsWalkingArts Culture
Would you do this?
Duration3 hrs
EffortEasy
BudgetBudget
PriceUSD 5
StyleSelf-Guided
Best monthsNov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
StatusMust-See

About This Activity

Wellington's iconic cable car has been running since 1902 and departs from Lambton Quay every 10 minutes, climbing 120 metres to Kelburn with panoramic harbour and city views during the 5-minute ride. A return ticket costs NZ$9 for adults. At the top, the free Cable Car Museum traces the history. Wander through the 26-hectare Botanic Garden — home to over 25,000 plants, the Lady Norwood Rose Bowl (spectacular November–December), and the Donald McLean Memorial Fountain. Walk back downhill through the gardens to the city — a lovely 45-minute descent that links naturally to the Cuba Street neighbourhood.

Seasonal note: Open year-round. The Rose Bowl peaks Nov–Dec; gardens are lush and colourful throughout summer (Nov–Mar).

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