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Where is Wellington?
The capital of New Zealand, Wellington sits on the southern tip of the North Island. This makes it not only a great New Zealand road trip destination in itself but also a gateway between the North and South Island.
What is Wellington known for?
Celebrated for its creative pulse, buzzing arts community, and trendy café scene, Wellington knows how to turn it on for tourists. But it's not just the arts and eats that make it special. Often dubbed the ‘Coolest Little Capital in the World’, Wellington stands out with its one-of-a-kind mix, where natural beauty meets sophisticated city life. And that makes it a prime destination for romance – from wining, dining, and shopping to nature walks and romantic picnics, take your pick.
The best way to explore Wellington
The beauty of Wellington is in its details, and to truly uncover its gems, you need the freedom to roam. When it comes to exploring everything on offer in this cool capital, nothing beats the flexibility and convenience of a maui campervan hire.
With a great range of premium campervans to choose from, maui adds that extra layer of luxury to your campervan holiday. You’ll have everything you need at your fingertips. Create delicious dinners and indulgent breakfasts in your own kitchen. Make use of the extra storage space to bring along all those must-have home comforts. Enjoy the convenience and privacy of having your own bathroom and shower. There’s simply no better way to travel!
Image: Instagram - @kristamayphotography
The 15 most romantic things to do in Wellington
Here are our top suggestions for romantic things to do in Wellington.
- 1. Stroll along Oriental Bay
- 2. Play mini golf at Witching Hour
- 3. Explore the Wellington Botanic Garden
- 4. Ebike your way to Pencarrow Lighthouse
- 5. Go Wine tasting in Martinborough
- 6. Indulge at Ombra
- 7. Take a harbour cruise
- 8. Enjoy a movie at Embassy Theatre
- 9. Learn new skills at a cooking class
- 10. Watch the sunset at Mount Victora Lookout
- 11. Pamper yourselves at Spring Spa
- 12. Take a dawn walk at Zea
- 13. Experience Weta Workshop
- 14. Delight in a chocolate factory tour
- 15. Have fun at Willis Lane
1. Stroll along Oriental Bay
Kick off your romantic escape in Wellington with a laid-back amble along Oriental Bay. As you walk, why not grab a coffee from one of the charming cafes dotting the route? It's the little moments, like sipping a warm brew and taking in gorgeous views, that make the best memories. The bay itself offers up an iconic Wellington scene. The peaceful waterfront and the soft sandy beach are the perfect place to catch your breath and take a moment to firm up plans for the day.
2. Play mini golf at Witching Hour
Switch up your Wellington adventure with a whimsical round of mini golf at The Witching Hour. This isn't your average putt-putt experience.At Witching Hour Mini Golf Wellington, you get to unleash your competitive spirit in a seriously spooky setting. Creepy monsters, glow-in-the-dark backdrops, and the occasional ghoul add a playful twist to your date night.
3. Explore the Wellington Botanic Garden
Head to the Wellington Botanic Garden for a refreshing escape in the city. Wander through its wide paths and discover areas like the Lady Norwood Rose Garden, filled with colourful blooms. It’s a peaceful spot, ideal for a quiet picnic. Whether you're into plants or just looking for a calming outdoor space, this garden offers a nice change of pace for couples.
4. Ebike your way to Pencarrow Lighthouse
Set off on a memorable eBike adventure to Pencarrow to check out the sights. The main attraction, Pencarrow Lighthouse, stands as a testament to Wellington’s maritime history. Nearby, the tranquil Pencarrow and Parangarahu Lakes offer picturesque spots for breaks. As you pedal along on a rented bike, don't forget to look around and soak in the distant sights of the Kaikoura Ranges and the expansive Wellington Harbour.
5. Go wine tasting in Martinborough
For wine enthusiasts, a day trip to Martinborough is a must-do. Just a little over an hour's drive from Wellington, this acclaimed wine region welcomes visitors with open arms and full glasses. Here, you can indulge in some of New Zealand's most delectable wines, surrounded by the stunning beauty of expansive vineyards. While many wineries in the region are noteworthy, places like Ata Rangi, Palliser Estate, and Te Kairanga stand out for their exceptional offerings. Make a day of it—tour the vineyards, taste the wines, and immerse yourself in the relaxing ambience of Martinborough.
6. Indulge at Ombra
Elevate your culinary experience in Wellington by booking a table at Ombra, one of the city's most sought-after dining destinations. Renowned for its mouth-watering dishes, diners frequently rave about their pappardelle with mushrooms and the garlic chilli butter gnocchi. But it's not just the food that makes this restaurant so popular. With its cosy setting and attentive service, Ombra offers an atmosphere that's just right for intimate conversations and cherished moments.
7. Take a harbour cruise
Set sail on a Wellington adventure with a sunset or evening harbour cruise. And why not do it in style aboard Wellington’s most luxurious yacht, Mission Hills. Relax and take in the stunning harbour views while you’re looked after by the friendly crew. Truly a special experience – and just right for a romantic evening out on the water.
8. Enjoy a movie at Embassy Theatre
There’s nothing quite as romantic as heading indoors to enjoy a good movie together. And Wellington offers the perfect spot at the historic Embassy Theatre. With its grand architecture and plush interiors, the theatre offers a unique experience that’s both nostalgic and luxurious. Whether you're diving into a timeless classic or catching the latest blockbuster, your Wellington date night at this iconic theatre will be one to remember.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
9. Learn new skills at a cooking class
Add a pinch of teamwork and a dash of fun to your Wellington adventure by signing up for a couples' cooking class. Under the watchful eye of a seasoned chef, you and your partner will get hands-on, crafting delectable dishes and learning kitchen techniques. And the best part? At the end of it all, you get to sit down, relax, and enjoy the tasty meal you've prepared together.
10. Watch the sunset at Mount Victoria lookout
Level up your romantic evening with a hike up Mount Victoria. The full loop walk takes around 1.5 hours, but there is also a shorter 45-minute option. As you reach the summit, you're rewarded with an unrivalled view of Wellington, its sprawling harbour, and the vast horizon beyond. But it's at sunset when the magic truly happens. To make the moment even sweeter, lay out a picnic spread, uncork a bottle of wine, and toast your awesome New Zealand road trip.
11. Pamper yourselves at Spring Spa
After exploring a few of the great Wellington activities on offer, there's no better way to recharge than by treating yourselves to a lavish spa day at Spring Spa. This oasis of relaxation offers couples the perfect setting to relax and unwind. Dive into a world of luxury with indulgent massages, revitalising facials, and an array of relaxation treatments tailored for two. There's truly nothing like the feeling of getting pampered side by side, allowing you both to emerge refreshed and rejuvenated, ready for another great day in the city.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
12. Take a dawn walk at Zealandia
There's a serene kind of magic in the early morning hours, and nowhere is it more evident than at Zealandia. Tucked away within the bustling city, this wildlife sanctuary is home to over 40 species of native birds. Start your experience by arriving just before the first light and embark on a guided dawn tour through the sanctuary. As the sky brightens, you'll be serenaded by the melodic dawn chorus, a symphony of native birds greeting the new day. This immersive experience brings a sense of connection and wonder, reminding you of the simple joys of nature. After your tranquil walk, round off the experience with breakfast and coffee at the onsite café.
13. Experience Weta Workshop
Movie buffs, this one's for you! Dive into the fascinating realm of cinematic artistry with a visit to Weta Workshop. Renowned worldwide for its groundbreaking special effects and captivating creations, this is where the magic happens. Go behind the scenes of some of the biggest blockbuster films. As you tour the workshop, you'll get a firsthand look at the intricacies of prop making, costume design, and the many elements that breathe life into movie tales. For couples who share a love for cinema, this is a behind-the-curtain experience that is sure to add a touch of Hollywood to your Wellington journey.
14. Delight in a chocolate factory tour
Every romantic holiday deserves a touch of sweetness, and what better way to indulge than a tour of the Wellington Chocolate Factory? Dive deep into the wonderful world of cocoa and witness the intricate art of chocolate-making. From roasted beans to the final glossy bar, you'll learn the ins and outs of this delicious craft. Of course, no visit would be complete without sampling some of the decadent creations. Whether you're a chocolate connoisseur or just have a sweet tooth, this factory tour promises a memorable treat.
15. Have fun at Willis Lane
Looking for a lively end to your day? Head on over to Willis Lane, where you’ll find plenty of excitement and entertainment. From scrumptious dining to thrilling arcade games, there's something for every couple here. And if you're in the mood to roll, why not challenge your partner to a friendly round of indoor bowling? With its vibrant atmosphere and fun activities, Willis Lane ensures that your romantic road trip in Wellington ends on a high note.
Ready for a date in Wellington?
From birdsong serenades to delicious chocolate decadence, Wellington offers one amazing romantic adventure after another. And there’s no better way to experience it all than with the comfort and freedom of a maui camper. So, why wait? Book your maui campervan hire now and fuel your wanderlust, reignite your romance, and embark on your own intimate road trip.