Wellington Cable Car

Ngā Taihape o Te Whanganui-a-Tara

Historic funicular railway climbing from downtown to the Botanic Gardens, operating since 1902 and offering spectacular views of the city and harbour during the ride. An iconic Wellington experience and efficient way to reach the gardens while enjoying vintage transport nostalgia.

Things to do

• Ride the Cable Car — Experience the historic funicular railway journey from Lambton Quay to Botanic Gardens, enjoying views of Wellington Harbour and the city skyline during the 5-minute ascent.
• Explore Wellington Botanic Gardens — Wander through 25 hectares of native and exotic plants, including the stunning Lady Norwood Rose Garden and native bush walks accessible from the Cable Car upper station.
• Photography at Botanic Gardens Lookout — Capture panoramic views of Wellington city, harbour, and surrounding hills from the elevated vantage point near the Cable Car terminus.
• Visit Cable Car Museum — Learn about the historic 1902 funicular's engineering, original wooden carriages, and restoration efforts through displays at the upper terminus.
• Walk the Brooklyn Wind Turbine Trail — Access nearby bush walks from the Cable Car area leading to the prominent white wind turbine offering additional city views.
• Browse Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre — Discover seasonal plant information, native New Zealand flora details, and pick up maps for extended garden exploration.

Food to try

• Flat White Coffee — Enjoy Wellington's famous espresso-based coffee culture at cafés near the Cable Car base on Lambton Quay, a local specialty perfected by the city's baristas.
• Green-Lipped Mussel — Sample this local New Zealand delicacy prepared fresh at waterfront restaurants near the Cable Car's downtown terminus.
• Hokey Pokey Ice Cream — Try this beloved New Zealand ice cream flavor combining vanilla with honeycomb candy at Botanic Gardens cafés or nearby parlours.
• Fish and Chips from Local Takeaways — Grab fresh New Zealand snapper or tarakihi wrapped in paper from traditional takeaway shops along Lambton Quay before heading up the Cable Car.
• Pavlova with Native Berries — Indulge in the iconic Kiwi meringue dessert topped with whipped cream and locally-foraged berries at Garden cafeterias.

Local customs & good to know

• Validate Your Ticket Before Boarding — Purchase return tickets at the base station or use the contactless card system; single trips are also available but return offers better value for most visitors.
• Peak Hours Are Mid-Morning and Afternoon — Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience on the Cable Car and in the Botanic Gardens.
• Weather Changes Quickly on the Hill — Bring a light jacket even on sunny days as the elevated gardens experience cooler winds and sudden weather shifts typical of Wellington's exposed hilltop location.
• Respect Native Flora — Stay on marked paths in the Botanic Gardens to protect native New Zealand plants and ecosystems, which are carefully managed conservation areas.