If you’ve ever tried to keep kids entertained on a rainy weekend, you’ll know it takes more than a pocketful of snacks and good intentions. We’ve been there—braving the drizzle, dodging meltdowns, and desperately searching for activities that are actually fun for everyone (yes, even the adults). The good news? From free playgrounds where they can burn off endless energy to museums that double as rainy-day lifesavers, Wellington’s got plenty to keep the little crew happy.
Here are Urban List's picks for the best things to do with kids in the capital—tried, tested, and parent-approved.
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Free & Outdoor Adventures
Ride the Cable Car To The Botanic Gardens
Image credit: Wellington NZ | Instagram
A Wellington classic, the cable car ride is a thrill for kids and a nostalgic hit for parents. Once you’re at the top, you can let the little ones loose in the playground while you take in the views (and maybe sneak a coffee from the kiosk).
Insider intel
- Cars run every ten minutes: from 7.30 am on weekdays, and 8.30 am on weekends.
- Family passes start at $21 for one adult and up to 3 children, and $28 for two adults and up to 4 children.
Splash Around At Oriental Bay
Image credit: Wellington NZ | Instagram
Sunny day? Head straight to Oriental Bay. With its golden sand, shallow waters, and an easy gelato stop nearby (Kaffee Eis is a go-to, and one of the best ice cream spots in Wellington), it’s the perfect spot to let kids run wild while you kick back by the harbour.
Insider Intel
- The Mount Victoria Lookout Walkway is one of the best walking tracks in the area, and a great option if you want to work up a sweat before your swim (or tire out those kids).
Spot Wildlife at Zealandia
Image credit: Visit Zealandia | Instagram
Zealandia is a chance to give the kids a taste of Jurassic Park—minus the dinosaurs. The fully fenced sanctuary is home to some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s rarest species of birds, reptiles, fish, insects, and plants.
Everything here thrives in a predator-free environment, which means kids can get up close with kākā parrots, tuatara, and even the odd wētā if they’re brave. There’s an entry fee, but if you’re looking for a family activity that feels special and educational, this one’s worth it.
Insider Intel
- General admission for a family of five is just $57, and kids under 4 enter for free.
- Book a Zealandia by night tour to spot critters like glowworms, tuatara, and ruru that only come out after nightfall.
Rainy-Day Saviours
Get Hands-On At Te Papa
Image credit: Te Papa | Instagram
Wellington’s national museum is a lifesaver when the skies open up. Te Papa’s interactive zones are designed for curious kids, featuring giant puzzles, touch-and-learn exhibits, and ample space to explore.
Insider intel
- Entry is completely free at this spot, but you may have to purchase tickets for special exhibits.
Discover The Stars At Space Place
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You can blast off without leaving Wellington at Space Place. The kids will love exploring interactive galleries, multimedia exhibits, and the historic Thomas Cooke telescope—before settling in for a jaw-dropping show in the full-dome planetarium. From planets and constellations to Māori starlore and tales of early exploration, it’s an out-of-this-world way to learn about Aotearoa’s skies.
Insider intel
- Time your visit for a clear evening, and you might get to peer through the telescope at real stars and planets.
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Let Loose At Capital E
Image credit: Capital E | Instagram
Part creative hub, part play space, Capital E is where little imaginations can run completely wild. With ever-changing workshops, digital experiences, and hands-on activities, it’s a guaranteed win for kids who need more than just a rainy-day distraction.
Insider intel
- During school holidays, Capital E runs drop-off workshops for ages 6–13, in everything from digital skills to zine-making—plus PlayHQ for under-5s is open Monday to Saturday.
Climb The Walls Indoors
Image credit: Clipn' Climb World | Instagram
For families with energy to burn, an indoor climbing gym is the perfect outlet. Safe, fun, and full of challenges for all ages, it’s a great way to keep spirits high while the weather does its worst outside.
Insider intel
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Wellington Climbing, Fergs, and Clip n' Climb are a few of our top picks.
Rev It Up At Daytona Adventure Park
Image credit: Daytona Adventure Park | Instagram
Sometimes the only cure for cabin fever is a giant room full of trampolines—and Daytona Adventure Park at Brewtown has that plus a whole lot more. Alongside dodgeball courts, foam pits, and wall-to-wall bouncing, you’ll find go-karts, ice skating, bowling, paintball, archery tag, and gellyball. Add hot food on hand for refuelling, and you’ve got the ultimate rainy-day playground for the whole family.
Insider intel
- Head over there on a Sunday, and you’ll find one of the best farmers' markets in Wellington.
Weekend & Holiday Events
Dive Into Seasonal Festivals
Image credit: CubaDupa | Instagram
Wellington knows how to throw a party, and plenty of its big festivals roll out the welcome mat for families. CubaDupa turns the CBD into a street carnival with music, parades, and colourful performances, while the Newtown Festival promises food, stalls, and live entertainment that the kids are guaranteed to love. Summer evenings also mean the Gardens Magic Concert Series, where the Botanic Gardens ki Paekākā Soundshell comes alive with free performances, a dazzling light display, and kid-friendly extras like the Garden Trail and Explorer Days.
Insider intel
- Keep an eye on Wellington City Council’s events and festivals page to see what’s coming up for you and the kids.
Explore Wellington’s Best Markets
Image credit: Wellington NZ | Instagram
Few weekend rituals beat a market stroll, and Wellington has some of the best. The Harbourside Market (every Sunday on the waterfront) is ideal for fresh produce, coffee, and food trucks, with plenty of space for little legs to run around. You’ll also find gems like My Walk-In Wardrobe in Lower Hutt—NZ’s largest sustainable fashion market, where you can score preloved, upcycled, and vintage clothing, shoes, jewellery, and accessories for all ages. Entry’s just a gold coin, and you’re guaranteed to find something special.
Insider intel
- Hit Harbourside Market early for the best produce, then wander the waterfront with your haul—it doubles as one of the city’s best pram-friendly walks.
- Want the full scoop? Check out Urban List’s guide to the best markets in Wellington for all the insider picks.
Catch A Special Kids’ Film Screening
Popcorn for breakfast? We don’t judge—especially when weekend kids’ matinees make mornings at the movies a tradition. Local cinemas often run family-friendly programming during the school holidays, from discounted tickets to themed marathons of kids’ favourites. Both Embassy Theatre and Light House Cinema are known for curating extra-fun lineups that make movie night feel like an outing, not just screen time.
Insider intel
- Year-round, you’ll also find special kids’ matinees and weekend morning screenings—perfect for when you need an easy, low-stress activity.
- Light House offer both family and grandparent passes at a discounted rate, so you can secure tickets no matter who's looking after the kids.
Main image credit: Wellington NZ | Instagram
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