Wellington
Wellington
New Zealand
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Wellington, famously dubbed the 'coolest little capital in the world,' is a vibrant blend of culture, coffee, and coastal beauty. Nestled at the southern tip of New Zealand's North Island, Wellington'...
About Wellington
Wellington, famously dubbed the 'coolest little capital in the world,' is a vibrant blend of culture, coffee, and coastal beauty. Nestled at the southern tip of New Zealand's North Island, Wellington's maritime climate is defined by its infamous winds and rapidly changing conditions. While many travelers start their New Zealand journey in Auckland and head south, Wellington offers a more compact, walkable, and arts-focused experience. The city is a year-round destination, but your experience will vary wildly depending on the season. Summer (December–February) brings the best outdoor weather and a buzzing waterfront, while the shoulder seasons of Autumn (March–May) and Spring (September–November) offer a balance of fewer crowds and unique festivals like the World of WearableArt. Winter (June–August) is the time for cozying up in world-class cafes and exploring the national museum, Te Papa.
Fly from Halifax, or anywhere in Atlantic Canada, and discover Wellington at its best. We'll show you when to go, what to see, and where to eat, so you can simply enjoy the journey.
December, January, February
Summer (December–February)
March, April, May
Autumn (March–May)
June, July, August
Winter (June–August)
September, October, November
Spring (September–November)
What's Included
Seasonal Guide
Complete 12-month breakdown with weather, crowds & pricing
Flights from Halifax
Routes: Halifax — Wellington, or via major hubs from Atlantic Canada
Neighborhoods
5 curated areas to stay, from budget to luxury
Budget Guide
NZD (New Zealand Dollar) daily budgets: $80–$120/day to $500+/day
At a Glance: When to Visit Wellington
Best Overall
January, February, and March
Cheapest
June, July, and August
Busiest
January, February, and late September (during WOW)
Best Weather
February (warmest and most stable)
For Events
March (CubaDupa and NZ Fringe) and September (World of WearableArt)
For Families
January (warm weather and school holiday activities)
For Couples
April (calm weather and vibrant autumn colors)
Budget Travel
May and June
From Atlantic Canada
Halifax to Wellington.
Month by month.
Everything you need to know about travelling from Canada to Wellington — the best seasons, what to pack, and how to save.
Month-by-Month Guide to Wellington
January
Average 16°C–21°C (61°F–70°F). Low rainfall and high sunshine hours (approx. 240 hours).
“Best for sun-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts who don't mind the summer crowds.”
February
Average 16°C–21°C (61°F–70°F). Warmest sea temperatures and generally the least wind.
“The peak of summer and the most reliable month for blue skies and warm days.”
March
Average 14°C–19°C (57°F–66°F). Mild temperatures with the start of autumn crispness.
“The best month for culture lovers, featuring the city's biggest street festivals.”
April
Average 12°C–17°C (54°F–63°F). Calm, settled weather with beautiful autumn foliage.
“Ideal for photographers and those seeking a quieter, more scenic city experience.”
May
Average 10°C–14°C (50°F–57°F). Increased rainfall and cooler, crisp mornings.
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June
Average 8°C–12°C (46°F–54°F). Short days and frequent winter showers.
“Great for budget travelers who enjoy indoor cultural activities and cozy bars.”
July
Average 7°C–11°C (45°F–52°F). The coldest and often wettest month of the year.
“A food lover's paradise thanks to the major culinary festival 'Wellington On a Plate'.”
August
Average 7°C–12°C (45°F–54°F). Cold but with occasional clear, frosty mornings.
“The best month for fans of craft beer and gourmet food.”
September
Average 9°C–14°C (48°F–57°F). Windy spring conditions with blooming gardens.
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October
Average 10°C–16°C (50°F–61°F). High winds (equinoctial gales) and mixed sunshine.
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November
Average 12°C–18°C (54°F–64°F). Temperatures begin to climb; longer daylight hours.
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December
Average 14°C–20°C (57°F–68°F). Pleasant weather with festive atmosphere.
“Best for those who want to experience the holiday spirit in a southern hemisphere summer.”
Festivals & Events in Wellington
World of WearableArt (WOW)
A world-renowned international design competition and spectacular stage show.
Hotels sell out months in advance; book at least 4-6 months early.CubaDupa
New Zealand's largest outdoor street festival celebrating the creative spirit of Cuba Street.
High foot traffic in Te Aro; some road closures in the central city.Beervana
The ultimate celebration of New Zealand craft beer at Sky Stadium.
Flights and hotels fill up with beer enthusiasts from across the country.Wellington On a Plate
A month-long food festival featuring special menus, burger competitions, and events.
Top restaurants require bookings weeks in advance.Gardens Magic
Free evening concerts and light installations in the Botanic Garden.
Local crowds peak in the evenings near the gardens.New Zealand Fringe Festival
An open-access arts festival featuring edgy and experimental performances.
Brings a bohemian, artistic crowd to the city's smaller venues.Matariki Wellington
Celebrating the Māori New Year with lights, food, and cultural performances.
Moderate impact; a great time for cultural immersion.Dragon Boat Festival
Colorful racing on the Wellington waterfront.
Waterfront area is very busy; great for spectators.Budget Guide: How Much Does It Cost to Visit Wellington?
NZD (New Zealand Dollar)
Daily Budget
Peak
$250–$450
Off-Peak
$150–$250
Prices are highest during the summer holidays (Dec-Jan) and during the World of WearableArt (late Sept-Oct). Budget travelers should aim for May-June or August-early September.
Where to Stay in Wellington by Season
Te Aro
Moderate to PremiumYear-round
The heart of the entertainment district. Best for those who want to be steps away from cafes, nightlife, and Cuba Street.
Oriental Bay
PremiumSummer
Wellington's 'Riviera.' Perfect for seaside walks and swimming, though options are mostly luxury apartments or B&Bs.
Thorndon
ModerateAutumn/Winter
A historic, quiet neighborhood near Parliament. Good for business travelers and those wanting a more sophisticated vibe.
Mount Victoria
ModerateSpring/Summer
Leafy hills with stunning views. Great for Airbnbs and heritage stays close to walking tracks.
Newtown
BudgetYear-round
Eclectic and multicultural. Best for budget travelers and those looking for an alternative vibe away from the CBD.
What to Pack for Wellington
Summer
Pro tip: The NZ sun is extremely strong; you will burn even on cloudy days. Apply sunscreen every two hours.
Autumn
Pro tip: Layers are key as temperatures fluctuate between the sunny afternoon and the chilly evenings.
Winter
Pro tip: Avoid umbrellas! Wellington's wind will snap them instantly. Invest in a good hooded raincoat instead.
Spring
Pro tip: Expect wind. Use hair ties if you have long hair and avoid wearing light, flowy skirts.
FAQs: Visiting Wellington
What is the best month to visit Wellington?
February is generally considered the best month due to the warmest temperatures, lower wind speeds, and vibrant summer events.
When is the cheapest time to fly to Wellington?
Winter (June to August) is usually the cheapest time for flights and accommodation, provided you avoid the dates for major events like Beervana.
Why is Wellington called 'Windy Welly'?
The city is located on the Cook Strait, which creates a 'wind tunnel' effect between the North and South Islands, resulting in consistent breezes and occasional gales.
Is Wellington worth visiting in winter?
Yes, especially for food and beer lovers. The city's indoor culture, world-class museums, and the Wellington On a Plate festival make it a great winter getaway.
How many days do I need in Wellington?
3 to 4 days is perfect to see the city highlights, visit Te Papa, explore the Weta Workshop, and enjoy the culinary scene.
Is Wellington colder than Auckland?
Yes, Wellington is typically 3-5 degrees Celsius cooler than Auckland and significantly windier, making it feel colder than the thermometer suggests.
When does the World of WearableArt (WOW) happen?
WOW usually takes place from late September through early October.
Can you swim in Wellington?
Yes, Oriental Bay is the most popular swimming spot, though the water remains refreshingly cool even in the height of summer.
Also Consider: Other Destinations in New Zealand
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