Living in Wellington
Compact, connected, and creative, Wellington is the beating heart of New Zealand. Discover everything the capital has to offer to live your best student life.
Student life in Wellington
Learn from the best
Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington gives students opportunities to learn from the many national decision makers, top creative talents, technology trailblazers, and leading researchers based in Wellington.
Discover the city on foot
The city is compact enough to get most places on foot. It also has an excellent public transport system that includes trains, buses, and one rather special cable car.
Always have something to do
Whether you’re in search of active adventures, cultural experiences, festivals and events, world-class cafés, unique shopping, a memorable night out, or just something free—Wellington’s got you covered every day of the week. Discover Wellington.
Surround yourself with natural goodness
Wellington is a beautiful region that makes the most of its natural setting. It’s home to a busy harbour, beaches, mountains, miles of coastline, and acres of native bush to explore—right on your doorstep.
National organisations and research links
Wellington is home to many national organisations, all of which have strong and well-established teaching and research links to the University.
Wellington also has the highest concentration of science organisations in the country, including many Crown Research Institutes.
Top 10 Wellington must-dos for students
Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington and its students are a vital part of Wellington's colourful character. Get out there and make some memories!
1. Wander the waterfront
The waterfront is a great place to go walking, running, skating, and biking, or to just sit and take it all in. Follow the Writers Walk, or visit the Harbourside Market on Sundays.
2. Experience the nightlife
Wellington has thriving theatre and music scenes with live shows every night of the week. The city prides itself on being the culinary capital and there are always new dining options to try. If you're planning a night on the town, Courtenay Place is a good place to start.
3. Tour Parliament
Definitely not just for politics students, a tour of the Beehive is for anyone with an interest in art, architecture, and how decisions are made in New Zealand. One of New Zealand's most iconic buildings, it's also free to visit.
4. Indulge your love of movies
A UNESCO City of Film, Wellywood is home to Wētā Workshop and the Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision. It also has many arthouse and independent cinemas, some of which have student discounts or cheap nights.
5. Take in Te Papa
Spend a rainy day touring New Zealand's national museum for free. While you're at it, check out the award-winning Wellington Museum (free).
6. Walk with the animals
Wildlife and native bush eco-sanctuary Zealandia and Wellington Zoo both have discount pricing for students. Try Zealandia by night to catch a sighting of some of New Zealand's nocturnal natives.
7. Check out Cuba Street
Known as New Zealand’s coolest street, colourful Cuba Street is a haven for buskers, bohemians, coffee-lovers, vintage shoppers, and culinary enthusiasts alike. Be sure to visit nearby Hannah's Laneway, and don't miss Cuba Dupa, Wellington's most creative and diverse free arts festival.
8. Get active
Hitting the trails, taking a dip in Oriental Bay, surfing at Lyall Bay, walking the town belt, and sailing or kayaking on the harbour are just some of the ways Wellingtonians enjoy the great outdoors. Download WellyWalks app.
9. Pack a picnic
Stop and smell the flowers at Wellington Botanic Garden or take the ferry over to Matiu/Somes Island or Days Bay and Eastbourne one sunny day. Looking for somewhere further afield? Jump on the train and explore everything the Wairarapa has to offer.
10. Enjoy the view from the top
Head up to the Mount Victoria lookout for panoramic views of Wellington.