Bars
in Wellington
Wellington's bar scene is widely considered the best in New Zealand — intimate, inventive, and endlessly diverse. From award-winning cocktail bars hidden down laneways to craft beer taprooms on Cuba Street, rooftop bars overlooking Te Papa, and moody speakeasies behind unmarked doors, the capital packs an extraordinary density of quality drinking establishments into its compact centre. Wellington bartenders regularly win national awards, and the city's creative culture infuses every pour.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best bar areas in Wellington?
Courtenay Place is the main nightlife strip, Cuba Street offers creative and craft-focused bars, the laneways (Hannah's, Leeds Street, Eva Street) hide the city's best cocktail bars, and the waterfront has upscale options. Wellington rewards exploration — the best bars are often the hardest to find.
What time do bars close in Wellington?
Most Wellington bars close at midnight on weeknights and 2–3am on weekends. Some venues on Courtenay Place hold late licences. The city's compact size means you can easily walk between bars.
Is Wellington good for craft beer?
Wellington is NZ's craft beer capital with multiple award-winning breweries including Garage Project, ParrotDog, and Panhead operating taprooms in the city. The annual Beervana festival is the country's largest craft beer event.