Car Hire Wellington Airport

Wellington has been labelled the world’s ‘coolest little capital’ by Lonely Planet and it’s easy to see why. This capital city of New Zealand has seamlessly blended its stunning nature with an unmistakable creative vibe and has brought us award-winning dining, hidden bars and great coffee. Once you arrive at the airport, grab your bags and head straight for your rental car; there’s plenty that awaits! 

First up, coffee. Wellington seems to be a city obsessed with coffee, and happens to have the highest concentration of cafes in the country. The heart of the city itself is home to some great cafes, including Customs, The Hangar, Milk Crate, Lamason Brew Bar, People’s Lukes Lane and Ekor - a cafe and bookstore mashup. 

Known as New Zealand’s culinary capital, the dining scene in Wellington is one to be savoured. From a cute and cosy homey Italian fare at Cicio Cacio to Pickle & Pie - Wellington’s take on a New York deli - you won’t go hungry in this city. For those wanting a more refined dining experience, you can’t go past Logan Brown or Hiakai. The latter is a boundary-pushing yet sophisticated fine dining restaurant helmed by internationally acclaimed chef, Monique Fiso. This exceptional restaurant is dedicated to showcasing indigenous and local ingredients and only seats 30 people at a time, so be sure to book far in advance. 

For a more relaxed vibe, Wellington is also famous for its beer scene, with specialist brew bars popping up on every block. Go on a quest for the perfect pint and sample the city’s craft beer offerings across the abundant offering of craft beer bars and breweries. Seeking out a hidden foodie gem? Check out Hannahs Laneway. This former shoe factory is now a tasty little laneway brimming with options from pizza to dive bars, delectable stores to Wellington’s famous salted caramel cookie at Leeds Street Bakery. 

Wander around Wellington in your hire car

With the eats and sips boxes ticked, it’s time to go exploring in your hire car. For unparalleled 360 views of Wellington city, Mount Victoria Lookout is the spot to be. Beyond breathtaking views, this site also offers great walking tracks. If more views are what you’re after, hop on the Wellington Cable Car. A 5-minute ride from the city centre, it takes you to the top of the Wellington Botanic Gardens. Spend the day strolling through 25 hectares of beautiful blooms from all around the world, spot native plants, large scale sculptures and don’t miss the glasshouses. 

For a dose of history and culture, a visit to the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa is a must. Known as one of the best interactive museums in the world, it’s a treasure trove filled with stories of the country and its natural environment, Māori culture, art and heritage. Wellington has something for everyone, including movie buffs. Take a guided tour of the Wētā Workshop where you’ll learn about the making of movie effects including armours, creatures, costumes, make-up and more.

Get out into nature with your hire car

New Zealand is brimming with nature experiences and you don’t have to travel very far to find them. Hop into your hire car and go on a cruisy 30-minute drive north of Wellington to arrive at the Te Paekakariki Escarpment Track. This track offers sweeping views of the Kapiti Coast, and you’ll also be able to spot plenty of native vegetation. 

Another must-see are the Putangirua Pinnacles. These stunning rock formations transport you to another world and were also a filming location for Peter Jackson’s ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King’. Feeling adventurous? Head to Wairarapa, just an hour’s drive north of Wellington, this region offers plenty to explore - from the Waiohine Gorge to Cape Palliser. Wairarapa is also one of New Zealand’s premier wine regions, so name your designated driver, take a tour of the vineyards, sit back and get sipping. 

From delicious dining to captivating culture, nourishing nature to wondrous views, Wellington has something for everyone. It’s time to plan that holiday, book your hire car and get excited about your next adventure here.