Everything You Need to Know about the Wellington Cable Car
David Harris
| Last Updated: February 2025 - Where is the Wellington Cable Car?
- About the Wellington Cable Car
- Admission Costs
- Parking
- How to Get to the Wellington Cable Car
- What to See While on the Wellington Cable Car
- Things to Do at the Wellington Cable Car
- Grab a bite to eat at Cable Top Eatery
- Go shopping at Fragrifert Perfumery
- Learn about cable car history at the Cable Car Museum
- FAQ
The Wellington Cable Car is not just a ride—it’s a journey through history with stunning city views. I’m talking about the vistas of the harbor and the iconic Mount Victoria.
Plus, you’ll get to indulge in the sunset views over the city if you time your trip right.
It’s a classic mode of transport that’s been around since the early 1800s, and it’s still going strong. It takes you up the steep slopes of Wellington, so you can forget the boring old buses and grab a seat in the open-air cable car.
Where is the Wellington Cable Car?
The Wellington Cable Car is located in Wellington, New Zealand. It connects Lambton Quay, the busy main shopping area, to the scenic hillside suburb of Kelburn.
About the Wellington Cable Car
Media credit: wellingtonnz
Address: 280 Lambton Quay, Wellington Central
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 7:30 AM to 8:00 PM
- Friday – 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday – 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM
- Sunday – 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM
Contact: +64 4 472 2199
Website
Admission Costs
Note: Children under 5 travel for free
Parking
There’s no dedicated parking at the Cable Car itself, but there are a few options. You can find pay-by-space parking along Lambton Quay, which is pretty convenient.
If you’re looking for a bit more security, Wilson Parking facilities are scattered around. The HSBC Tower on Panama Street is the closest one.
How to Get to the Wellington Cable Car
Getting to the Wellington Cable Car isn’t difficult at all. If you’re driving, just head to the Lambton Quay terminal—it’s right at the end of Cable Car Lane. It’s a popular attraction, so it’s hard to miss it.
You can also take the bus to the Lambton Quay terminal, which is a short walk from the cable car. If you’re coming from Wellington Station, you can take the bus line 22 to Victoria University.
What to See While on the Wellington Cable Car
Media credit: wellingtoncablecar
Here are a few sights to look out for:
LED Light Show: Wait until you see the cable car tunnels light up—you’ll be completely captivated by the dazzling patterns and colors. I love how they transform the tunnels into a vibrant, ever-changing spectacle.
Wellington City: Seeing Wellington spread out below never fails to leave me in awe. For the best view of the Wellington Museum and Parliament Buildings, try to sit on the right-hand side of the cable car as you ascend.
Wellington Harbour: To get the best view of Wellington Harbour, sit on the left-hand side as you ascend. The harbor stretches out beautifully below.
Watching the ferries and sailboats glide across the water is truly fascinating. It’s a place that’s bustling with activity, yet exudes a sense of peace at the same time.
Wellington Botanic Garden: The view of the Botanic Garden is breathtaking. It’s a lush, green oasis in the city. The sprawling gardens and native forests create a stunning contrast to the urban landscape below.
Mount Victoria: On a clear day, Mount Victoria stands out beautifully—always inspiring me to go hiking there! For the best vantage point, look towards the western side of the city as you approach the top station.
Oriental Bay: That glimpse of Oriental Bay is just a teaser! With its golden beach and scenic promenade, it’s a true gem just minutes from the city center. It looks so inviting that every time I see it, I can almost feel the sand between my toes.
Basin Reserve: Cricket enthusiasts will be happy to spot the home of the Wellington Firebirds and New Zealand’s national team. Keep an eye out for a large, green expanse on the eastern side of the city as you approach the top station.
Things to Do at the Wellington Cable Car
Grab a bite to eat at Cable Top Eatery
Media credit: cabletopeatery
Address: 1 Upland Road, Kelburn
Hours:
- Sunday to Tuesday & Thursday – 8 AM to 4 PM
- Wednesday, Friday & Saturday – 8 AM to 8 PM
Contact: +64 4 475 9006
Website
One of the highlights of Cable Top Eatery is the stunning view of Wellington. From the restaurant, you can see the city skyline and harbor.
The menu features a variety of options, from classic Kiwi dishes to international favorites. Of course, no trip to the Cable Top Eatery is complete without a taste of their famous coffee.
Just make sure you book a reservation!
Go shopping at Fragrifert Perfumery
Media credit: mydreamlifenz
Address: 1 Upland Road, Kelburn
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 4 PM
Contact: +64 27 607 1852
Website
This quirky store is perfect for custom handcrafted perfumes and vintage finds. You can find everything from antique furniture and books to vintage clothing and jewelry.
It’s a great place to pick up a unique souvenir or just indulge in a bit of retail therapy.
Learn about cable car history at the Cable Car Museum
Media credit: sheree.chinn
Address: 1A Upland Road, Kelburn
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Contact: +64 4 475 3578
Website
If you’re a history buff or just curious about the fascinating story behind the Wellington Cable Car, visit the Cable Car Museum at the Kelburn terminal.
This museum holds information about the cable car’s history, from its early days to its modern-day operations. You can see old photographs, learn about the engineering behind the system, and even view some of the original equipment.
