Exploring the Wellington Botanic Gardens
The Wellington Botanic Gardens, on the west side of Central Wellington, lie on the southeast side of the valley where Glenmore Street separates the suburbs of Kelburn and Northland. This scenic spot is easily accessible from the city centre, with multiple walking tracks, viewpoints, garden types and other points of interest. To the south of the gardens is Victoria University, and Zealandia is to the southwest, continuing along Glenmore Street and following the signs.
Discovering the Gardens
There are many access points to the gardens from the surrounding suburbs. From Central Wellington, the best option is to take the cable car from Lambton Quay to the top of the gardens. Next to the cable car station, you can explore the Cable Car Museum and admire the views from the nearby Carter Observatory, then walk directly into the gardens, heading generally downhill towards the main entrance in Glenmore Street.
On the way, there are multiple side-trips, loops and options featuring both native and exotic plants. You'll find mature redwoods, native bush, and a fernery. The Treehouse is a notable attraction, with splendid views over the valley. Continuing northeast from the bottom of the hill, you will discover a large rose garden, the Peace Flame, and a café where you can relax, ultimately ending up at the entrance on Glenmore Street.
Exploring Te Ahumairangi
Across the road from the Glenmore Street entrance, a track off Kilmister Street leads to Te Ahumairangi (Tinakori Hill). This area is part of a large town belt, predominantly covered in bush, situated on a typically steep Wellington hill. It provides more breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
How to Get There
To walk to the gardens from the city centre, take Bolton Street or Bowen Street, coupled with the City to the Sea Walkway, about a 10 to 15-minute walk. If you are walking in, you can discover the historic Bolton Street Cemetery and the Seddon Memorial. From there, it is an uphill walk to explore the gardens.
Other outdoor parks to explore include Wilton Bush, the adjacent Ōtari Native Botanic Gardens, and Mount Victoria. The downtown harbour walk, Te Papa and Oriental Bay can also be added to a Wellington day walk.
