Best of Wellington: Te Papa & Zealandia Eco Experience
Moderate Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
Discover the best of New Zealand's capital city on a captivating journey that blends nature, culture, and world-class storytelling. This enriching tour takes you to two of Wellington's most iconic and celebrated attractions-Zealandia Te Mara a Tane, a groundbreaking eco-sanctuary, and Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand's national museum.
Your experience begins with a scenic drive through Wellington, offering glimpses of its charming architecture and dramatic harbour views as you make your way to Zealandia, a 250-hectare fenced eco-sanctuary just minutes from the city centre. Often described as the world's first fully fenced urban wildlife sanctuary, Zealandia is a pioneering conservation success story. Step into a lush, prehistoric landscape and learn how this extraordinary valley has been transformed into a safe haven for some of New Zealand's rarest and most endangered native species, including the little spotted kiwi, tuatara (a living fossil), saddleback, kaka, and takahe.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, you'll stroll along gently graded paths through dense native forest and around shimmering lakes, all while hearing inspiring stories of regeneration, ecological innovation, and species recovery. It's a rare chance to see New Zealand's natural heritage brought back to life, in the very place where it began.
Next, travel to Wellington's stunning waterfront for a visit to Te Papa Tongarewa-Museum of New Zealand, a world-renowned cultural institution known for its bold, interactive, and often moving exhibitions. Begin with a one-hour guided "sampler" tour that provides an engaging overview of the museum's most popular exhibits and collections. Explore highlights such as the Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War exhibition, created in partnership with Weta Workshop, and the museum's celebrated Maori and Pacific treasures, offering a rich insight into New Zealand's cultural identity.
Following your guided introduction, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. Whether you wish to delve deeper into natural history, contemporary art, or geological wonders, Te Papa offers a fascinating journey through the stories and spirit of Aotearoa New Zealand. With six expansive floors and hands-on exhibits, there's truly something for everyone.
As your day draws to a close, rejoin your coach for a scenic return to the ship, taking in more of Wellington's coastal charm and vibrant cityscape along the way.
This tour is perfect for guests seeking a deeper connection to New Zealand's unique wildlife, rich history, and cultural diversity-all within one unforgettable day.
Points of interest
Zealandia: Karori Wildlife Sanctuary
Outdoor Adventures
Schedule
Special Notes
This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility. Tour order may vary.
Exceptional Value
Book shore excursions with confidence! We offer competitive pricing, friendly service and unmatched destination expertise.
Moderate Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
Discover the best of New Zealand's capital city on a captivating journey that blends nature, culture, and world-class storytelling. This enriching tour takes you to two of Wellington's most iconic and celebrated attractions-Zealandia Te Mara a Tane, a groundbreaking eco-sanctuary, and Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand's national museum.
Your experience begins with a scenic drive through Wellington, offering glimpses of its charming architecture and dramatic harbour views as you make your way to Zealandia, a 250-hectare fenced eco-sanctuary just minutes from the city centre. Often described as the world's first fully fenced urban wildlife sanctuary, Zealandia is a pioneering conservation success story. Step into a lush, prehistoric landscape and learn how this extraordinary valley has been transformed into a safe haven for some of New Zealand's rarest and most endangered native species, including the little spotted kiwi, tuatara (a living fossil), saddleback, kaka, and takahe.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, you'll stroll along gently graded paths through dense native forest and around shimmering lakes, all while hearing inspiring stories of regeneration, ecological innovation, and species recovery. It's a rare chance to see New Zealand's natural heritage brought back to life, in the very place where it began.
Next, travel to Wellington's stunning waterfront for a visit to Te Papa Tongarewa-Museum of New Zealand, a world-renowned cultural institution known for its bold, interactive, and often moving exhibitions. Begin with a one-hour guided "sampler" tour that provides an engaging overview of the museum's most popular exhibits and collections. Explore highlights such as the Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War exhibition, created in partnership with Weta Workshop, and the museum's celebrated Maori and Pacific treasures, offering a rich insight into New Zealand's cultural identity.
Following your guided introduction, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. Whether you wish to delve deeper into natural history, contemporary art, or geological wonders, Te Papa offers a fascinating journey through the stories and spirit of Aotearoa New Zealand. With six expansive floors and hands-on exhibits, there's truly something for everyone.
As your day draws to a close, rejoin your coach for a scenic return to the ship, taking in more of Wellington's coastal charm and vibrant cityscape along the way.
This tour is perfect for guests seeking a deeper connection to New Zealand's unique wildlife, rich history, and cultural diversity-all within one unforgettable day.
Points of interest
Zealandia: Karori Wildlife Sanctuary
Outdoor Adventures
Schedule
Special Notes
This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility. Tour order may vary.