PLAN YOUR VISIT | ASAP 2026

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Plan Your Visit

Transport
Buses and trains

Wellington has an extensive public transport system that is well-used by locals. Buses and trains can get you around the city, suburbs, and wider region.There is also the East by West Ferry that takes you across Wellington Harbour, from Queen’s Wharf in the city across to Eastbourne in Lower Hutt.Metlink has an easy-to-use journey planner, getting you from A to B using all of the city’s transport options.

Airport Express (AX)

If you’ve arrived by plane, one of the easiest ways to access the city is via the airport bus. The Airport Express (AX) runs every 10 to 20 minutes, seven days a week. The trip takes approximately 30 minutes, and airport buses have wifi, USB charging, and luggage racks.

Paying for your bus journey

Paying for your journey is easier and more convenient with a Snapper card. They can be purchased from the Wellington isite Visitor Information Centre or various convenience stores. Top up and tap your card on and off each mode of transport.

You can also pay for your Metlink bus journey using a contactless debit/credit card or mobile device through Apple Pay/Google Pay (fees apply).

Walking

One of the best ways to explore Wellington is by foot. The central city is only two kilometres across, meaning you can walk from one side to the other in around 30 minutes (not accounting for any coffee stops along the way). Grab a downtown map from the Wellington isite Visitor Information Centre, and get to know the capital on your own two feet.

Cycling

Wellington has an abundance of cycle lanes, so pedalling around the city is another great transport option. There are many bike hire businesses. Switched On Bikes operates from Queens Wharf and has both regular and e-bikes for hire. Fergs Kayaks also offers bikes on the waterfront. For an on-the-go option, Beam and Flamingo have electric bike and scooter share services. These are easily hired via mobile apps.

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Wellington visitor guide

Your complete guide to the Wellington region with travel tips, maps, shopping, eating and things to do.

Wellington visitor guide.

Maps
Web map

Check out our digital map of the Wellington region.

Wellington central city map
Explore central Wellington with ease by using our downtown Wellington map. The map includes central city visitor attractions, key venue locations, public toilets and other points of interest.

Downtown Wellington map.

Paying for your bus journey

Wellington central city map Explore central Wellington with ease by using our downtown Wellington map. The map includes central city visitor attractions, key venue locations, public toilets and other points of interest.

Wellington central city map
Explore central Wellington with ease by using our downtown Wellington map. The map includes central city visitor attractions, key venue locations, public toilets and other points of interest.