The 10 Best Hidden Gems Things to do in Wellington, North Island

A beautiful heritage building, Government House in Wellington is the principal residence for New Zealand's Governor-General. Designed in the office of the Government Architect, John Campbell, the designer of Parliament Buildings,the house was built between 1908 and 1910. A major strengthening and refurbishment project was undertaken in 2008,with the official reopening taking place in March 2011. Built mostly of wood, Government House has eight guest suites and a self-contained apartment for the Governor-General, as well as a ballroom, conservatory, sitting rooms, service rooms, kitchens and offices. The formal rooms can be visited by the public,schools and community groups Visitors may also tour the gardens if the weather is fine.

We are a family-owned tour company priding ourselves on leaving you with a WOW impression of our city. We offer a variety of half and full day tours or if you would prefer we can create tours tailored to your needs.

Here at Zest we believe the best way to experience Wellington is by tasting gourmet delights while strolling the city learning about the art, architecture, culture and history of the region. Your passionate and knowledgeable local guide will introduce you to local artisans and producers and share stories of sustainability, ethical trade, community partnerships and more. We support local social enterprises and are absolutely committed to preserving our beautiful home here in Aoteoroa. Zest Food Tours also offers a premium private food and wine experience for two to four guests in the renowned Martinborough boutique pinot noir wine region.

Just minutes from the city lies nature's playground! Travel through private land and see wild animals, snow-capped mountains of the South, and stunning views of Wellington. Observe New Zealand Fur Seals in their natural habitat and the Leaning Lighthouse. Listen to stories and relax as you journey around bays and past the world-renowned Red Rocks. Seal Coast Safari has been providing guests with exclusive access to the best scenery in Wellington for over 17 years.

Experience a "mystical" adventure when you visit Middle Earth - Wellington. Get an appreciation of the influencing energies with a Tarot reading - starting with an open reading, then have your burning questions answered! Discover your past lives and soul's purpose through a past life reading. Find out about your soul mate or twin flame. Get insight and seek guidance about anything that is important to you. A Tarot reading can help uncover a better understanding of yourself and your many possibilities! By APPOINTMENT ONLY. Kindly book at least a day in advance. You can check my daily updated schedule and availability on my website. Buy hard-to-find Tarot decks, books and gift vouchers on your visit. Attend and learn from my Intuition, Tarot and Dreams classes and workshops to help you thrive in - both your personal and work - life. I'm available to speak about these topics - and for Group Tarot readings - at corporate and group events. I look forward to seeing you soon!

Going to the cinema is about so much more than watching a film. At Light House we try to create an environment of comfort and sophistication to deliver a unique cinema experience. Light House Cuba is located in Wellington's bustling Cuba street district. Nestled on Wigan street, across from Havana bar, Light House Cuba offers offers a unique and inviting atmosphere to escape the daily grind. Sit back, relax and unwind.

Fragrifert Parfumeur, The Victorian Perfumery, is a mini-museum and perfume emporium all in one. All perfumes are made by me, Francesco van Eerd, and are created using time honoured techniques and with a high percentage of natural materials. Just as they would have been made one hundred years ago. Where nature allows, I even distill my own materials. I welcome you to visit for yourself the fragrant excitement that is Fragrifert Parfumeur, at the Top of the Cable Car!

Be a special agent for an hour and take your team to an epic, live-action, puzzle-solving adventure game in the heart of Wellington. Boasting three epic, hour long games across two locations, featuring exciting and interactive puzzles with thought-provoking challenges and hi-tech puzzles. The best indoor activity, perfect for rainy days! At Johnston St, embark on a mission to save the world from the wrath of the Death Gods as you explore 'Ancient Temple' ruins. Or, enter a 1930's bank vault, the 'Spaceship' to investigate the crash site of an AI operated alien spacecraft and prevent an alien invasion. At Victoria St, investigate a mysterious, sunken shipwreck to find the lost continent, Atlantis and untangle the dark secrets of the long-lost Utopian paradise, the land of the titans. Switch off from reality and immerse yourself in a hidden world in a movie-like, themed environment with seriously cool, tactile puzzles. Always thought you'd make a damn good detective? Well, prove it.

Discover the wonders of the finest Foods, Spices and Cocktails on offer around the beautiful and cultural city of Wellington. Your expert guide will take you off the beaten track to experience a variety of taste sensations, where you can discover the hidden gems usually only experienced by the locals in Wellington. It's a special treat you shouldn't miss where you'll be taken around the nooks and crannies of specialty food & spice stores and quirky cocktail bars. (Transport provided for non-walking tours)

Wellington speciality rum & gin infusion bar