Wellington Shore Excursion: From Cave to Coast Highlights Private Tour

Wellington , New Zealand

Wellington Shore Excursion: From Cave to Coast Highlights Private Tour

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(9 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Comprehensive yet personal: In just half a day, we capture the very best of Wellington — from the panoramic views atop Mount Victoria to the movie magic of Weta Cave, the rugged South Coast, and the serene Botanic Gardens. It’s the perfect balance of must-sees and hidden gems.

Locally guided experience: Our passionate local driver guides share authentic stories, film trivia, and personal insights you won’t find in any guidebook.

Small-group comfort: With a maximum of 11 guests per vehicle, you’ll enjoy a relaxed, flexible, and interactive experience.

Seamless and scenic: Every stop has been thoughtfully chosen to showcase Wellington’s diverse beauty — from city skyline views to wild coastline, from coffee culture to creative artistry.

Available options

Wellington Shore Excursion: From Cave to Coast Highlights Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Cruise ship terminal or hotel pickup and drop-off service

Exclusive access to private vehicle with local driver/guide and live onboard commentary

Lunch (mains + a drink)

Private tour only. One group booking only permitted.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Enjoy sweeping views of the city and harbour from the Mount Victoria Lookout

Drive the length of Oriental and Evans Bay Parades and check out the private cable cars accessing the houses along the ridge line.

Visit the Weta Cave retail and museum space associated with the Weta group of companies and check out some of their movie magic. Watch an exclusive behind the scenes documentary of the companies history (optional - if time and availability allows)

Enjoy a classic Kiwi lunch at a local café renowned for its freshly prepared, locally caught seafood. The menu also caters to all dietary preferences. Your meal includes a main course and a drink.

Learn about the local geography, history, flora and fauna as you gaze across the Cook Strait to the Kaikoura Ranges in the South Island.

Enjoy the amazing sights from this magnificent viewpoint high above the city of Wellington.

Stop 7

Take an optional ride up the Wellington Cable Car from Lambton Quay to Kelburn. The tour rejoins there with a views across the valley and visit to the Cable Car Museum

Take an optional walk through the Botanical Gardens to the Lady Norwood Rose Garden where the tour rejoins to explore the 108 different rose varieties

Stop 9

The final stop is Old St. Paul’s Cathedral (optional entry at guests’ own expense, $5 NZD per person), where you can explore this native hardwood timber cathedral, built in 1866, and admire its magnificent stained glass windows.

Take in the view across the white sand beach to the entrance of Wellington Harbour.

What's not included

Gratuities

Does not include Weta Studio behind the scenes tours (unavailable due to tour time constraints)

Does not includes Wellington Cable Car tickets (optional one-way ride)

Old St. Paul’s Cathedral (optional entry at guests’ own expense)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark

About Wellington

Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is a vibrant city known for its arts scene, coffee culture, and stunning natural surroundings. Nestled between rolling hills and the harbor, it offers a unique blend of urban life and outdoor adventures.

Top Attractions

Te Papa Museum

Te Papa is New Zealand's national museum, showcasing the country's art, history, and natural environment.

Museum 2-3 hours Free entry, some exhibits may have fees

Wellington Botanic Garden

A beautiful garden with a variety of plant collections, walking trails, and scenic views of the city.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Mount Victoria Lookout

A scenic lookout offering panoramic views of Wellington and the surrounding coastline.

Nature 1 hour Free

Weta Workshop

A special effects workshop famous for its work on films like The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

Cultural 1-2 hours NZD 30-50

Wellington Cable Car

A historic cable car offering scenic views of the city and harbor.

Historical 30 minutes NZD 5-10

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hangi

A traditional Māori method of cooking food in an earth oven. The food is wrapped in leaves and cooked underground for several hours.

Dinner Contains meat, vegetarian and vegan options available.

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Dessert Contains eggs and dairy, vegan options available.

Fish and Chips

A classic New Zealand dish featuring fresh fish, usually snapper or tarakihi, coated in batter and deep-fried, served with chips (fries).

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish and gluten, vegetarian and vegan options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Mountain biking Spa treatments Beach lounging Picnicking Museum visits Art galleries

Best Time to Visit

December to February

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

15°C to 22°C 59°F to 72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Māori, New Zealand Sign Language
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Wellington is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of common safety precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being cautious in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Wellington Airport • 6 km from city center

By train

Wellington Railway Station

By bus

Wellington Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Metlink is the main public transport system in Wellington, offering a network of buses, trains, and ferries.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

CBD (Central Business District) Te Aro Miramar Karangahape Road (K' Road)

Day trips

Red Rocks

30 km from Wellington • Half day

A scenic coastal area known for its rugged cliffs, sea lions, and wildlife.

Matiu/Somes Island

20 km from Wellington • Half day

A small island in Wellington Harbour with a rich history and scenic views.

Kapiti Coast

60 km from Wellington • Full day

A scenic coastal area known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife, and hiking trails.

Festivals

Wellington Cup Week • Late February to early March Wellington on a Plate • August Wellington Jazz Festival • Early October

Pro tips

Visit Te Papa Museum, New Zealand's national museum, for a comprehensive overview of the country's art, history, and natural environment.
Explore the vibrant and eclectic Cuba Street, known for its boutique shops, cafes, and street art.
Take a ride on the historic Wellington Cable Car for scenic views of the city and harbor.
Visit the Weta Workshop for a behind-the-scenes look at the special effects workshop famous for its work on films like The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
Enjoy Wellington's thriving coffee culture by visiting one of the numerous specialty coffee shops and roasteries.