Gay venues
13
Country
New Zealand
Population
215K
LGBTQ+ status
Welcoming
In this guide · 5 sections

Wellington's small size means hotel location doesn't matter as much as in bigger cities. You can walk everywhere in the inner city. From any central hotel, Cuba Street is 10 to 20 minutes on foot, max. Most hotels are in the CBD, around Lambton Quay and the waterfront.

CBD and waterfront

Wellington's CBD runs from the railway station in the north to Courtenay Place in the south. The waterfront, now a walking and cycling path along the harbor, runs along the east side. Hotels here are mostly mid-range to luxury international chains. They're good for both the Cuba Street area and the waterfront.

The train station, at the north end, connects to Wellington's rail network: the Hutt Valley and Kapiti Coast. If you're arriving by train from the North Island, CBD hotels are the easiest option.

Te Aro: Cuba Street's doorstep

Te Aro contains Cuba Street and most of the city's independent restaurants, bars, and arts venues. You'll find smaller boutique hotels and serviced apartments here. Staying in Te Aro puts you right in Wellington's most interesting neighborhood—good cafes, restaurants, bars, and the Arts Centre are all close. The Cuba Street bars are steps away, not a walk.

Cost

Wellington accommodation is a bit cheaper than Auckland on average, but still expensive compared to other places in the region. The city's small size means fewer options at any price point than in Auckland or Sydney. For big events—Wellington Pride, the New Zealand Festival of the Arts, All Blacks test matches at Sky Stadium—book early. The city's limited hotel rooms fill up fast.

The hotels

For the full Wellington picture, see the Gay Wellington Guide.