Family-Friendly Adventures in Wellington, North Island!

Weta Workshop

Why Visit?

Family Itinerary for Visiting Weta Workshop

Morning: Arrival & Weta Cave Tour

Begin your magical day at Weta Workshop, nestled in the heart of Wellington’s movie-making precinct, Miramar. Easily accessible by car or public transport (take bus #2 or #24 to Miramar Avenue), start at the iconic Weta Cave shop, opening at 9 AM. It’s not just a store but a mini-museum packed with props, costumes, and collectibles from your favorite films.

Special Tip: Don’t miss the exclusive documentary shown every 30 minutes, revealing the behind-the-scenes magic of films like *The Lord of the Rings*.

Mid-Morning: Guided Workshop Tour

At 10:30 AM, join the guided Weta Workshop Tour. This one-hour experience reveals the creativity and craftsmanship of Weta Workshop’s design and special effects. You’ll see artists at work on current projects and learn how creatures and props are brought to life.

Lunch Break

Around noon, head to the nearby Chocolate Fish Café— a local favorite, for a delightful seafood lunch or some kid-friendly options like sandwiches and shakes.

Afternoon: Thunderbirds Are Go Tour

Post lunch, dive into the world of Thunderbirds during the interactive "Thunderbirds Are Go" tour at 1:30 PM. It’s an exciting opportunity for the kids to see actual sets and discover the groundbreaking techniques used in this beloved series.

Evening: Wrap Up at Roxy Cinema

Conclude your day with a visit to the Roxy Cinema, just a stone’s throw from Weta Workshop. Catch a family movie in this beautifully restored 1920s cinema, known for its stunning interiors and movie memorabilia.

Interesting Fact: Weta Workshop is named after a giant New Zealand cricket, reflecting the company"s origins and Kiwi identity. It"s a place where creativity plays and imaginations soar – perfect for a family day out!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Hutt Valley

Why Visit?

Welcome to the picturesque Hutt Valley, a perfect spot for a family adventure near Wellington, New Crown. Here’s an engaging itinerary to make the most out of your visit:

Day 1: Experience Petone

Start your journey by exploring Petone, easily reachable by a short 15-minute drive or a scenic train ride from Wellington. Visit the Petone Settlers Museum to learn about the early settlers" stories, including an interactive children’s area that brings history to life. Afterward, stroll along the Petone Foreshore, where kids can enjoy the beach and you can admire views of the Wellington Harbour. Don’t miss out on Jackson Street, famous for its eclectic shops and eateries where you can grab a bite.

Day 2: Discover Lower Hutt

Begin your day in Lower Hutt, accessible by both car and public transport from Petone. Visit the Dowse Art Museum, a creative hub with fascinating exhibitions and family-friendly workshops. Next, head over to the Avalon Park, a modern adventure playground with interactive features suitable for all ages. Finish the day with a relaxing walk or a bike ride along the Hutt River Trail.

Day 3: Outdoor Fun in Upper Hutt

Drive or take a train to Upper Hutt for a day in nature. Start at the Staglands Wildlife Reserve where kids can feed animals and learn about wildlife conservation. Grab lunch at their café, then proceed to Harcourt Park, known for its disc golf and the ‘Isengard’ location from “The Lord of the Rings.” End your day with a visit to the H2O Xtream, an indoor aquatic center perfect for fun water activities.

Each destination in Hutt Valley offers unique experiences that cater to both adult and young travelers, making it an ideal spot for a memorable family holiday. Enjoy your trip filled with culture, history, and plenty of outdoor fun!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

City Gallery Wellington

Why Visit?

Embark on an enriching cultural adventure with your family at City Gallery Wellington, a premier art space in the heart of Wellington, New Zealand. This carefully crafted itinerary ensures a memorable day of artistic exploration and family fun.

### Morning: Arrival and Exploring the Exhibitions

Start Time: 10 AM

Location: City Gallery Wellington, Civic Square, 101 Wakefield St

Arrive early at the Gallery, easily accessible via Wellington’s efficient public transport; the nearest bus stops are within walking walk. If you’re driving, the Civic Square Car Park is a convenient option. Begin your visit with a family-friendly guided tour, available on request, which tailors explanations to younger audiences, making art concepts accessible and engaging for all ages.

### Midday: Interactive Workshops

Start Time: 12 PM

Location: Education Studio at City Gallery

After exploring the exhibitions, head to the Education Studio for hands-on workshops (check availability prior to your visit). These workshops are designed to inspire young minds and allow families to create their own artworks, offering a practical understanding of the techniques seen in the gallery.

### Afternoon: Picnic and a Story

Start Time: 1:30 PM

Location: Civic Square

Step outside to Civic Square, where you can enjoy a family picnic with food brought from home or purchased from nearby cafés. Post-lunch, join the gallery staff for a storytelling session about the artworks and artists featured in the current exhibitions, providing a deeper insight into their creative worlds.

### Late Afternoon: Scavenger Hunt

Start Time: 3 PM

Location: City Gallery Wellington

Conclude your visit with a scavenger hunt organized by the gallery, which takes families back through the exhibitions to find clues and solve puzzles related to the artworks on display. This engaging activity reinforces the day’s learning in a fun, interactive way.

### Departure

End Time: 4:30 PM

As the day winds down, take a moment to browse the City Gallery Shop for exclusive souvenirs and books, making the perfect memento of your family’s artistic adventure in Wellington.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

New Zealand Parliament (Beehive)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to New Zealand Parliament (The Beehive)

Morning Arrival

Start your day with a journey to the heart of Wellington where the iconic Beehive building, an architectural marvel shaped like a beehive, awaits. Getting there is easy; if you"re staying in central Wellington, it’s a short walk or a bus ride to the corner of Lambton Quay and Molesworth Street. Parking can be found at the nearby Bowen Street or at the Basement on The Terrace.

Tour of Parliament

Once at Parliament, join one of the free, guided tours available on the hour between 10am and 4pm. Tours last about an hour and offer a look inside the corridors of power where New Zealand"s legislative decisions are made. Highlights include viewing the beautifully decorated debating chamber and learning about NZ"s unique "MMP" electoral system. Kids will enjoy spotting the intricate woodwork and maybe even sitting in the chairs used by MPs during school group visits!

Lunch Break

Post tour, enjoy a picnic on the Parliament"s grounds, where kids can roam free or play in the small, onsite playground. For more dining options, the Backbencher Pub across the street offers hearty meals with political caricatures decorating the walls.

Educational Fun

After lunch, visit the nearby Parliamentary Library, part of the tour but worth a special mention due to its historical significance and stunning Gothic Revival architecture. Engage in a family discussion about the stories and historical events presented by the guides.

Evening Stroll

Cap off your visit with a leisurely walk around the vicinity to enjoy the grandeur of other government buildings in the area before heading back to your accommodation.

Interesting Fact

Did you know that the Beehive was designed by British architect Sir Basil Spence in 1964, but its construction wasn"t completed until 1979? Its unique shape and social significance make it a must-see!

This itinerary offers a blend of education and relaxation, perfect for a family outing at one of New Zealand’s most important and fascinating landmarks.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Te Papa (Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Te Papa Museum, Wellington

Morning Arrival

Start your day early at Te Papa, located at 55 Cable Street on Wellington’s vibrant waterfront. Accessible by bus, car, or a scenic walk along the waterfront, the museum is perfectly situated. Parking is available onsite for convenience.

10:00 AM - Mana Whenua Exhibition

Kick off your museum adventure with the Mana Whenua exhibition. This immersive display introduces the local Māori culture and history. Children will be fascinated by the intricate carvings and the legend of the colossal squid.

11:00 AM - Awesome Forces Exhibition

Next, explore the Awesome Forces exhibit where the whole family can learn about New Zealand"s dramatic geological landscape. Engage with interactive displays that explain volcanic eruptions and earthquakes - a thrilling experience that explains the science behind these natural events.

Lunch Break

Around noon, grab a bite at Te Papa’s family-friendly café. They offer a variety of options including kids’ meals and coffee for the adults.

1:00 PM - Bush City Trail

Post-lunch, take a walk through Bush City - Te Papa’s outdoor educational trail. This is a great way for kids to burn off some energy while exploring native plants and fossils. Don’t miss the chance to cross the swing bridge!

2:00 PM - Discovery Centres

Head to one of the Discovery Centres like PlaNet Pasifika or Hīnātore (Learning Lab), where interactive games and activities are tailored for children. These centers are designed to make learning fun and engaging for young minds.

3:30 PM - Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War Exhibition

Conclude your visit with the Gallipoli exhibit. Created by Weta Workshop, this moving display features giant sculptures that bring the stories of the soldiers to life, offering a poignant lesson on New Zealand"s role in World War I.

Departure

By late afternoon, wrap up your visit. The museum shop is perfect for picking up educational souvenirs to remember an eventful day at Te Papa.

Enjoy your visit filled with learning, fun, and unforgettable family memories at Te Papa!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.