Wellington, New Zealand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Wellington, New Zealand? If you're planning to go to Wellington, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Wellington, New Zealand

Based on the climate and weather in Wellington, New Zealand, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Wellington, New Zealand

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Wellington, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Wellington, New Zealand by month

January

January in this region is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wellington. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to find the necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

In February, Wellington is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 60s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Wellington, with several of the days of the month having rain. In February, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wellington. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you find the correct type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you visit Wellington during March, you may notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wellington. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you get the correct kind. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

If you visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Wellington is chilly and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wellington. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you get the right type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you visit Wellington during May, you might notice that it is cool and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wellington. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you get the right kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

If you visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June in Wellington is cold and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about two thirds of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wellington. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you get the right kind. Most adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you are traveling to Wellington in July, you will notice that it can be brisk and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wellington. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in Wellington is brisk and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wellington. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September is crisp and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wellington. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Wellington is relatively cool and very rainy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wellington. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Wellington is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) to low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wellington. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

In December, Wellington is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) and regularly jump into the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Wellington, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wellington. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you pick the correct type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

If you visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Wellington, New Zealand

Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city, is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and excitement. The city offers a diverse range of tourist attractions that cater to everyone, from families to solo travelers. Here are some of Wellington’s top tourist attractions.

1. Te Papa Tongarewa Museum: Also known as the Museum of New Zealand, Te Papa Tongarewa is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Wellington. The museum showcases the country’s culture, history, art, science, and natural wonders. Visitors can see interactive exhibits, artefacts, and multimedia displays, and learn about Maori traditions and culture.

2. Wellington Zoo: Wellington Zoo is a great place to visit with the family. The zoo has over 100 species of animals, including lions, giraffes, meerkats, and New Zealand’s native animals such as kiwis, tuataras, and kea birds. There are daily animal talks and encounters, and visitors can also take a behind-the-scenes tour.

3. Mount Victoria Lookout: For panoramic views of Wellington’s stunning harbours, city centre, and surrounding hills, take a trip to Mount Victoria Lookout. The lookout point is accessible by car or a scenic walk, and it’s a great spot to take photos and enjoy the scenery.

4. Wellington Cable Car: A ride on the Wellington Cable Car is a must-do when visiting the city. The cable car takes passengers from Lambton Quay up to Kelburn and offers stunning views of the city and harbour. Visitors can also explore the Cable Car Museum and take a guided tour of the cable car system.

5. Weta Workshop: Weta Workshop is an award-winning production studio that creates special effects, costumes, and props for film, television, and other media. Visitors can take a guided tour of the workshop and see the creative process behind some of the world’s most famous films, including The Lord of the Rings and Avatar.

6. Zealandia: Zealandia is an eco-sanctuary that provides a haven for native New Zealand wildlife. Visitors can see endangered species such as tuatara, kaka parrots, and takahe birds, and learn about conservation efforts. There are also walking trails, guided tours, and night tours available.

7. The Beehive: The Beehive is one of Wellington’s most iconic buildings and the home of New Zealand’s government. Visitors can join a guided tour to see the building’s unique architecture and learn about New Zealand’s political history.

Wellington is a city that offers something for everyone. From cultural experiences to wildlife encounters, there are plenty of tourist attractions to keep visitors entertained and engaged. So, if you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, don’t miss out on the exciting experiences Wellington has to offer.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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