Mount Victoria Lookout

This lookout at about 200m above sea level provides 360 degree views of Wellington city and harbour. You can get up there by car, like we did or use public transport. There's ample free parking about. Very popular place, lots of tourists and locals. When we went early in the morning, the fog affected visibility and so we returned later in the morning for more photos. Uneven terrain, lot of walking and stairs to get to the upper viewing levels. Not crowded, some tourists and a number of locals exercising and walking. Free entry. Great place for photography, if the weather is kind. Lovely place for picnic.

There was plenty of parking available at the lookout, and for free. The roads are pretty steep and the locals drive quite fast, so be careful. The views at Mount Victoria are gorgeous, overlooking Wellington in a 360 way. Wrap up, because the wind makes it quite cold here!

Very good panoramic views of the Wellington city from the Mount Victoria lookout. Offers 360 degree views of the city and seas. Watch the ships and the planes, and the blue skies. There is a drive up the hill to reach here, parking is also there ontop of the hill. You can alos walk up the hill if interested..

One of the best view point for sunrise in Wellington. Be it sunrise or scenic views this place is considered as one of the stunning sights to see the city view from above.

Unforgettable Views Day & Night - The Crown Jewel of Wellington! Mount Victoria Lookout was the absolute highlight of our North Island road trip from Auckland to Wellington. We were so captivated by its reputation that we visited twice in one day and each visit offered a completely unique, breathtaking spectacle. Don't miss this essential Wellington experience! Morning Majesty: Arriving on a brilliantly sunny (and predictably windy!) Wellington morning, the panoramic views left us speechless. The 360-degree vista is simply unmatched: the sparkling Wellington Harbour buzzing with ferries, the compact city skyline nestled against lush hills, the rugged South Coast, and on crystal-clear days, even the distant outline of the South Island. The brisk wind was invigorating, making the vibrant colours pop and truly making us feel on top of the world. It was the perfect, energizing welcome to the capital. Night-Time Magic: Compelled by the morning's beauty, we braved the elements and returned after dark. Wow! The transformation was incredible. The lookout became a scene from a dreamy film. The city lights twinkled like a vast constellation below, reflecting magically off the wet roads and harbour waters. The wind howled fiercely (hold onto hats and cameras!), adding a thrilling, dramatic edge. Seeing the harbour bridges illuminated and the red aircraft warning lights blinking on the surrounding hills created an entirely different, intimate, and powerful perspective. The wet, windy atmosphere added a raw, authentic Wellington charm. Essential Tips for Fellow Travellers: The Famous Wind:Wellington lives up to its name, and Mount Vic amplifies it! Dress in WARM, WINDPROOF layers always. A secure hat/scarf and tied-back hair are non-negotiable! Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes, especially if exploring the excellent walking tracks nearby (highly recommended for different angles!). Facilities:Basic public toilets near the main carpark. No cafes/shops at the summit bring water/snacks. Accessibility:The main lookout platform is easily reached by road with paved areas. Some prime photo spots require short walks on gravel/dirt paths. The summit walk from town is steep but rewarding. Film Buff Bonus:Recognise those pine trees? Parts of the iconic "Escape from the Nazgûl" scene in The Lord of the Rings.The Fellowship of the Ring were filmed on the town-side slopes of Mount Victoria! Look for the sign. The Verdict:Mount Victoria Lookout delivers the quintessential Wellington experience. Whether bathed in brilliant sunshine or shimmering under a canopy of city lights, battling the exhilarating wind or finding a sheltered moment, the view is iconic and unforgettable. It perfectly showcases the city's stunning natural harbour setting and unique character. The minor effort to get there (and park!) is 1000% worth it. A non-negotiable stop for any visitor 5 stars without question!We left with incredible memories and photos from both visits, cementing it as a major highlight of our North Island adventure.

A remarkable looklout in Wellington, still very impressive under rainy days. Narrow roads on the way to the top, need to be careful around the corner.

Wow, just wow. Climbing Mount Victoria early in the morning was honestly one of the best decisions I made during my time in Wellington. From the moment I set foot on the track, I was greeted by the crisp, fresh air that Wellington is so famous for. There was something so peaceful about being surrounded by the wilderness—tall trees, the soft crunch of leaves underfoot, and birdsong echoing through the air. It instantly felt like a retreat from the busyness of city life. The tracks were really easy and accessible, making the hike super manageable for almost anyone, even if you’re not an experienced hiker. The gentle ascent made it feel more like a stroll than a climb, and the well-marked paths meant there was no stress about getting lost. You could really just enjoy the walk and soak it all in. Reaching the summit was the real reward. The views over Wellington were absolutely breathtaking. Watching the city slowly come to life under the soft morning light was something special—it gave a whole new appreciation for the beauty and layout of the city. I was genuinely glad I made the effort to get up early and make the hike. It was invigorating, peaceful, and memorable—all rolled into one simple adventure. If you’re visiting Wellington, I highly recommend making time for a morning walk up Mount Victoria. It’s an experience that captures the very best of the city: nature, beauty, and tranquillity just minutes from the urban hustle.

On a good day this place allows for fantastic views over Wellington Harbour and the Wellington Bay Roads as well as the airport and the Cook Strait beyond. There isn't a huge amount of parking but on a glorious autumn morning we had no problem finding a space. There is a wee bit of a climb up well maintained stairs to get to the main lookout and it can become busy so patience is required. There are a number of informative boards explaining what you are looking at.