Shopping in Wellington’s CBD has changed over the years, but we think it’s for the better! As born and bred Wellingtonians, we’ve got a vast knowledge on where to find the best stores – and we’re sharing this with you.

Best Places for Shopping in Wellington’s CBD 

Lambton Quay has been the heart of the Capital since the European settlers made their homes here in 1840. Dotted with historic buildings and popular landmarks, it’s home to some of Wellington’s best shopping opportunities. After all, they don’t call Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street and Courtney Place the Golden Mile for nothing! Then there’s Cuba Street, and the regular markets that are popular with locals and visitors alike.

Ideally, you’ll be able to explore every one of these places, but in case you don’t have the time, here is a selection of our favourite places to go shopping in Wellington’s CBD:

Markets – Harbourside Market on the corner of Cable and Barnett Street has been around since 1920. Only open on a Sunday morning, here you’ll be able to snap up the delicious produce and homemade delights that the locals have been secretly enjoying for years! Get here early to avoid missing out.

Music – a visit to Slow Boat Records on Cuba Street is a must. Since 1985 it’s been the independent record store of choice for Wellingtonians. Who knows what you’ll discover here…

NZ fashion – Twenty Seven Names and Caughley are just two of the Capital’s popular fashion stores specialising in top NZ and international fashion designers. You’ll find them both on Ghuznee Street. 

Shopping venues – no shopping trip to Wellington is complete without a visit to the Old Bank Arcade at the corner of Lambton Quay and Willis Street. Once the Head Office of the Bank of New Zealand, here you’ll find dozens of boutique stores ready to entice you with their luxury wares and services. 

Self-care – great to enjoy before and after your shopping experience, make time to stop in at one or two of Wellington’s top beauty and self-care stores. Wellington Apothecary offers you the chance to chat with local naturopaths and apothecaries and have your very own remedies custom made for you.

As for where the best coffee is to be found, we’re keeping that a secret for now. But what’s not a secret is that we have available some of Wellington’s finest furnished apartments available for rent for you to enjoy during your visit. Get in touch with us today and let’s chat – we might even spill the beans, the coffee beans that is.