Thorndon Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
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. Visit 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 galleries and fascinating museums in this walkable area.
Activities
Wellington city heights shared sightseeing tour
Wellington's Original HD LOTR Experience - includes Weta Tour
Wellington: Return Cable Car Ticket
Half Day Lord of the Rings Tour
Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast
Discover Wellington 3 hour City Tour
Our pick of the best Thorndon Hotel Deals
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 3 May 2026
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
A little overpriced but this is a proper hotel.. and you will have your expectations met.
Reviewed on 11 May 2026
Rydges Wellington Airport
convenient stay for catching early overseas flights. takes the stress out of starting the trip.
Reviewed on 10 May 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 7 May 2026
Naumi Studio Wellington
it was unique
Reviewed on 6 May 2026
Gilmer Apartment Hotel
Staff were quick to respond to my email enquiries and room was clean, spacious with quality bed linen and amenities. We will definitely be staying again
Reviewed on 10 May 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
If you're spending some time in Wellington CBD, Wellington Cable Car and TSB Bank Arena are top sights worth seeing.
Kelburn
While visiting Kelburn, you might make a stop by sights like Botanic Gardens and Zealandia.
Wellington Waterfront
The abundant dining options and interesting 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
Te Aro is known for its popular shops, and with sights like St James Theatre and Cuba Street Mall, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Wellington.
Oriental Bay
If you're spending some time in Oriental Bay, Oriental Bay Beach and Oriental Parade are top sights worth seeing.
