Historic Places

Wellington contains many buildings, houses, sites and gardens that have survived from the early days of its settlement by Europeans. Many of the oldest houses can be found in Thorndon, especially along Tinakori Rd and Ascott St.

The Colonial Cottage Museum
A pioneer cottage built in 1858, one of the cityUs oldest buildings. On 68 Nairn St. Open weekdays 10am to 4pm, weekends 1pm-4.30pm. Ph 04 384 9122. Adults NZ$ 3.00, children $1, Students and Senior Citizens $2. To get there take No. 8 to Aro St., or No. 7 to Brooklyn, and get off at the corner of Webb St. and Nairn St.

Katherine Mansfield Birthplace
The family home of one of New ZealandUs most distinguished authors. There are exhibitions, educational resources, and tourist facilities. 25 Tinakori Rd, Thorndon. Open 10am-4pm Tuesday to Sunday and public Holidays. Ph. 0-4 473 7268. Admission NZ$ 4, children $1.

Old St Pauls
A treasured historic building built in 1886. The gothic structure windows and the woodwork made from native timbers. Its located in Mulgrave St., just down from Katherine Mansfield Birthplace.

The National Archives
10 Mulgrave St Thorndon, just down from Old St. Pauls. Contains a huge collection of photographs, art works, videos, historical documents, maps, films etc. Contains the treaty of Waitangi and other founding documents in the Constitution room. FREE. Open M-Friday 9am - 5 pm. Exhibitions Galleries and Constitution Rm also open Sat 9am-1pm. Ph. 0-4 495 6226.

Walking Wellington Tour
The City Council has worked out a number of pleasant routes you can walk by yourself. The Pioneer Memorial Walk and the Colonial Outlook Walk each focus on historic places, although most of the 6 walks include historic buildings and sites. The Information Centre in Civic Square will give you a brochure that has the walks, a map of where you are going and descriptions of the places to visit.

Wellington Heritage Highlights Tour
Takes you around the historic landmarks of the city, including Old St. Pauls, the treaty of Waitangi, Katherine MansfieldUs birthplace etc. Departs daily from Wellington Railway Station, Bunny St, at 9.30am and 2pm. Harbour lunch cruise an optional extra (morning tour only). Free pick up and return from city hotels. Ph. 0-4 478 8315.