Beyond The City

Wellington, our cool little capital, offers endless activities and attractions. But if you're ready to explore beyond the city limits, we've got you covered! Whether you've driven here or rented a car, our team has compiled their top recommendations for day trips in Wellington's picturesque backyard. Discover the hidden gems and scenic spots just a short drive away, perfect for a day of adventure and relaxation.

MARTINBOROUGH

Wine lovers won't want to miss a trip to Martinborough, home to over 20 cellar doors. The village is incredibly compact but the wineries and cellar doors are best explored by bike.

"ANY OF THE WINERIES IN MARTINBOROUGH ARE WORTH A VISIT, MY FAVOURITE WOULD BE ATA RANGI, THEY OFFER CELLAR DOOR TASTINGS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY BUT YOU CAN DROP BY THEIR WINE SHOP ANY DAY." BHAVYA SHARMA | RESERVATIONS MANAGER

Mākara Beach

While it's officially a suburb of Wellington, Mākara Beach feels a world away from the city. Here you'll find a popular 3-4 hour loop walk boasting beautiful coastline and dramatic views of the Mākara wind farm.

"BREAKFAST AT MARANUI CAFÉ IS AN ABSOLUTE MUST FOR ME ON A SUNNY DAY. AFTER BREAKFAST, I USUALLY TAKE A DRIVE TO MĀKARA AND TAKE IN THE STUNNING VIEWS FROM THERE." HARSHVARDHAN VIRRAGHAVAN | DUTY MANAGER

KĀPITI COAST

Keen for the sea breeze? North of Wellington, you'll find long stretches of beaches, cosy cafés and dramatic coastal walks across some 40km of coastline.

The first village you'll encounter is Paekākāriki, renowned for the stunning Escarpment Track, offering incredible sea views from the hills. The coast here is typically a few degrees warmer than the city, and the coastal village of Raumati—meaning 'summer' in Te Reo Māori—is no exception. In Paraparaumu, you'll find the popular Queen Elizabeth Park Coastal Track, which is a little less taxing than the Escarpment Track. A bit further up the coast, you'll discover the relaxing community of Waikanae, home to our hotel manager's favourite spot, Olde Beach Bakery.

"THE KĀPITI COAST HAS SO MANY GREAT BARS AND RESTAURANTS, IS PERFECT FOR BEACH WALKS AND IS SUPER EASY TO GET TO BY TRAIN OR CAR! OLDE BEACH BAKERY IN WAIKANAE IS A PERSONAL FAVOURITE, THEY HAVE GREAT CABINET FOOD!" HANNAH CHINNERY | HOTEL MANAGER

Cape Palliser and Lake Ferry

The rugged coastline headland of Cape Palliser is a must-see; not only is it the southernmost point of the North Island, but also home to an iconic lighthouse and a colony of fur seals. Visit Lake Ferry on your way for fish and chips by the sea.

"LAKE FERRY IS REMOTE BUT BEAUTIFUL! THERE'S A GREAT RESTAURANT FOR FISH & CHIPS, ENJOY THEM ON THE BEACH FRONT OF THE COOK STRAIT" WILLIAM ANGUS | BUILDING SERVICES MANAGER

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