Cultural Wellington Day Tour with Ka Rawe Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; includes moderate walking with opportunities to rest.
Overview
Discover Wellington’s rich Maori heritage and iconic landmarks on a 6.5-hour guided tour with Ka Rawe Tours. From Mount Victoria's lookouts to Te Papa’s treasures, immerse yourself in the stories that shaped New Zealand.
Wellington Full Day Tour including maoritanga
For all ages! • 6.5 hours • Cultural experience!
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating 6.5-hour journey through Wellington, where you'll uncover the rich culture of the Maori. Greeted in te reo, explore iconic sights like Mount Victoria, Te Papa museum, and the Treaty of Waitangi. Enjoy stunning coastal views, a cable car ride, and captivating stories that bring New Zealand's history to life.
On this full-day experience you will have an action packed day and discover some secrets of our indigenous people, the Maori. Welcome to Aotearoa!
Duration
6.5 hours
About
In addition to being expertly guided around the main attractions in our city, you'll also learn about our indigenous people, the Maori. Your guide will greet you in the maori language & you'll even learn some basic te reo (language) throughout the tour. We'll share some maori mythology with you & as part of the day, you'll also experience a guided tour of Te Papa seeing some maori taonga (treasures) After a break for kai (lunch/food) we'll head on out & check out the sights in our beautiful city. Of course, you'll also get to see the view from Mount Victoria lookout, we'll visit our coastline & even a ride on the cable car. We visit Botanical Gardens then Parliament & the Beehive. Saving the best until last, we'll visit the super sacred space that houses the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand's founding document. What an action packed day in Wellington! Ka Rawe!!
Itinerary Items
- You will be collected from your central hotel, at the port or at the iSite
- Your guide will greet you in the maori language
- Head up to the best vantage point in the city, Mount Victoria Lookout. Learn about the tale of Ngake & Whataitai, 2 taniwha! (sea serpents)
- We’ll make our way out towards Lyall Bay beach & take a leisurely wander around the spectacular Wellington coastline
- We take a quick walk to a sensational spot on the beach where we'll share some NZ history with you
- Jump out & check out the Weta Cave & the Weta retail store
- To round out the morning, we’re off to the national museum called Te Papa where you’ll be guided on a 1 hour guided tour
- We’ll break for some lunch at a scenic lunch spot (guests pay for own lunch)
- Jump in the Cable Car for a ride. All aboard!
- Head on down to the Botanical Gardens
- Visit where our country is run, Parliament buildings & the beehive
- Last but not least, we check out the Treaty of Waitangi Please note that the order of the itinerary may change
General Info
- Our guides provide ongoing commentary during the tour
- We bring our tours to life with a variety of images
- Feel free to ask all & any questions
- Please inform the driver if you have commitments at the tour conclusion
- Note that some things (e.g Traffic) are beyond our control
- This is a shared tour not private. Private tours are available (additional costs may apply), please email nathan@karawe.co.nz
- Note that there is often more than one pick up location, please be patient
- Tour duration of 6.5 hours is approximate
- Our guides are happy to take photos for you, just ask!
- You’ll be dropped off at a central location, your hotel or at the port
Adventure Tips
Bring comfortable walking shoes
The tour includes short walks on varied terrain along the coast and botanical gardens.
Dress for changeable weather
Wellington is known for wind and sudden weather shifts; layering is recommended.
Have some local currency on hand
Lunch and entry at some spots aren’t included; cash or card works for quick purchases.
Ask questions and engage with your guide
Guides share cultural context and stories that enrich the experience—don’t hesitate to join in.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Pied shag birds along the coastline
- Native tui birds in the Botanical Gardens
History
The Treaty of Waitangi site marks New Zealand's foundational agreement between Maori chiefs and the British Crown in 1840, central to the nation's identity.
Conservation
Efforts to protect Wellington’s coastal environment and native flora are integrated into local tourism, encouraging sustainable visitor practices.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Wellington
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered clothing
Adjust to Wellington’s famously changeable weather and coastal breezes.
Comfortable walking shoes
Supports walking on pavement, trails, and city streets comfortably.
Sun protection
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are key for sunny outdoor stops.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the day during walks and outdoor segments.