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.
Cuba Street Mall
Enjoy artisan coffees, sample specialty foods, browse through vintage shops or hunt for retro bargains in Wellington's bohemian heart.
Te Papa
Get hands on as you learn about the heritage of these islands at New Zealand's free national museum.
Hnry Stadium
Catch an event at Hnry Stadium during your trip to Wellington. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
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 acclaimed art scene and fascinating museums in this walkable area.
Things to do
Wellington city heights shared sightseeing tour
Half Day Lord of the Rings Tour
Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast
Wellington's Original LOTR Experience - includes Weta and Lunch
Wellington Coastal Self Drive Tour with an APP
Top hotels in Thorndon
WQ Wellington Quarter
The hotel is quiet, super comfy beds and clean. The rooms are small and the bathrooms are a bit dated, but that didn't matter as much, as it was the cleanest hotel I've been at in a while. It's also walking distance to shops, cafes and the Beehive.
Reviewed on May 3, 2026
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
No heated towel rail unfortunately
Reviewed on May 17, 2026
Rydges Wellington Airport
Rooms are really clean, no stocks at all in the mini bar, not even bottled water. The Entertainment set up for the in room Tv is outdated by at least 10 years, wasn’t easy to relax as the hallways are very noisy- noise transfer . Beds are ok but maybe a 7/10 Bar staff downstairs were really ...
Reviewed on May 14, 2026
Naumi Studio Wellington
Love this hotel - great staff, rooms, facilities and wonderful access to the bars, restaurants, cafes and shopping available in Wellington CBD. Is my go to for my Wellington stays.
Reviewed on May 15, 2026
Gilmer Apartment Hotel
After hours, check-in was a breeze. There's a combination washer and dryer and small kitchen. The hotel is tucked away. However there are steps down to Lambton Quay. Also you can follow Boulecott Street down to Cuba Street and Waterfront.
Reviewed on May 16, 2026
Rydges Wellington
Still in the process of new owners taking over, so for example can’t accept Amex yet. Most things remain the same - lots of opportunities for new owners to improve, from a fairly average spa with only a few jets working for 3 minutes at a time, to noisy rooms with average aircon. Breakfast very overpriced ...
Reviewed on May 7, 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Thorndon
Pipitea
If you're spending some time in Pipitea, Hnry Stadium and Archives New Zealand are top sights worth seeing.
Wellington CBD
While visiting Wellington CBD, you might make a stop by sights like Wellington Cable Car and TSB Bank Arena.
Kelburn
While visiting Kelburn, you might make a stop by sights like Botanic Gardens and Zealandia.
Wellington Waterfront
The ample dining options and fascinating 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
Travelers to Te Aro praise its popular shops. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by St James Theatre and Cuba Street Mall.
Oriental Bay
If you're spending some time in Oriental Bay, Oriental Bay Beach and Oriental Parade are top sights worth seeing.
