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Tucked among Wellington’s lush greenery lies the humble Mrs. Chippy Monument—a touching tribute not to a person, but to a loyal cat who journeyed through Antarctic extremes with explorer Shackleton. More than just a feline legend, she symbolizes unwavering companionship in the harshest conditions. Today, her memory lives on in this quiet corner, reminding every visitor: loyalty leaves pawprints that last forever.
Everything you need to know about Mrs. Chippy Monument
The Wellingtonian Hotel is the top choice, just a 5-minute walk from the Mrs. Chippy Monument. Its modern design blends with historic charm, and rooms feature panoramic windows offering views of Wellington Harbour and the North Island Mountains. The rooftop Sky Bar serves local craft beer and sea-view lunches—perfect for capturing the city’s vibrant spirit.
Another excellent option is Civic Hotel, located in the heart of downtown, close to Te Papa Museum and Parliament Buildings. Ideal for history enthusiasts, both hotels offer free Wi-Fi, 24-hour concierge service, and easy access to popular attractions like Mount Kaukau and Weta Workshop.
Walking from the Mrs. Chippy Monument takes about 10 minutes to reach central Wellington, passing through South Island Square and Riccarton Avenue—a scenic, tree-lined route. For faster travel, catch City Bus 36 or Metro 107, which run every 10–15 minutes and reach Wellington Railway Station and Parliament Buildings in just 8 minutes.
Alternatively, rent an electric bike from BayCycle, available near the monument. A 15-minute ride into the city center offers a sustainable way to enjoy coastal views and vibrant street art along the way, perfect for immersive urban exploration.
The Mrs. Chippy Monument in Wellington Harbour commemorates Mrs. Chippy, a beloved penguin companion of British explorer Ernest Shackleton during his 1914 Antarctic expedition. This loyal bird provided emotional comfort to the crew during their harrowing journey across the Southern Ocean.
The memorial features a simple stone pedestal and bronze plaque inscribed with "Forever Remembered", symbolizing the profound bond between humans and animals in extreme conditions. Each summer, locals and visitors hold small commemorative ceremonies, laying flowers to honor her legacy. The site also serves as a key starting point for Antarctic exploration-themed tours, drawing history enthusiasts from around the world.
Near the Mrs. Chippy Monument, join a harbor eco-tour aboard a small boat to spot dolphins, albatross, and seals, guided by marine biologists sharing insights on local ecosystems and conservation efforts.
Adjacent to the monument, an outdoor art installation zone rotates monthly, showcasing Māori carvings and contemporary street art. In the evenings, participate in a stargazing photography workshop along the waterfront, mastering long-exposure techniques to capture lighthouse beams and harbor nightscapes.
For cultural immersion, attend a Māori storytelling evening under a traditional tent, where elders share ancestral legends while guests enjoy Hāngi feast and wild blueberry tea—a true taste of authentic New Zealand heritage.
The MidCity Hotel is the top choice just a 5-minute walk from the Mrs. Chippy Monument, offering modern design and city skyline views through floor-to-ceiling windows. Located in the heart of historic Cuba Street, it’s surrounded by boutique cafés, independent galleries, and vibrant street art.
Guests enjoy complimentary bicycle rentals, making it easy to explore nearby attractions like the Wellington Museum and Waterfront precinct. The area hosts regular community markets and cultural events, providing authentic local experiences. With its central location and unique blend of heritage and contemporary charm, this hotel delivers both comfort and immersion in Wellington’s creative spirit.
Start at the Wellington Harbour Precinct, walking 10 minutes to the Mrs. Chippy Monument, enjoying scenic views of Mount Victoria and the Harbour Bridge along the way. Visit the Wellington Museum in the morning to learn about Ernest Shackleton’s Antarctic expedition, then reflect at the memorial site.
Lunch at Cuba Street, where you can savor local favorites like lamb chops or seafood chowder. In the afternoon, hop on the electric tram to the Botanic Garden or stroll through North Island Park for a peaceful nature escape.
End your day at SkyCity Observation Deck for panoramic views of the city lights. With most activities within walking distance and efficient public transit, this itinerary offers a seamless blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Yes, the Mrs. Chippy Monument is centrally located in Wellington, with excellent transport access. The electric tram stops directly at Cuba Street, just a 2–3 minute walk away. Multiple bus routes, including lines 1, 2, and 3, serve the area, connecting to Wellington Railway Station and the Airport Express.
Walking is also ideal—just a 15-minute stroll from the central business district. Numerous bike-sharing stations (e.g., Flicka) are available nearby, perfect for short trips to nearby parks or the waterfront. With a mix of trams, buses, walking paths, and cycling options, getting around is efficient and eco-friendly, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
See what other travelers say about Mrs. Chippy Monument
The entire stay at this hotel was excellent from start to finish. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-equipped with everything I needed for a relaxing trip. Location-wise, it’s incredibly convenient—just a short bus ride away from the CBD and Lambton Quay, making it easy to explore the city’s main attractions. The staff were friendly and helpful, always ready to assist with any request. Overall, the value for money is outstanding. I had such a great time that I’m already planning my return visit. Highly recommend this place to anyone traveling to Wellington!
Staying at Naumi Studio Wellington was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The location is unbeatable if you're looking to be close to the CBD—everything is within walking distance, and public transport is just steps away. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout our visit. While the studio room is compact, it’s smartly designed and includes everything we needed for a comfortable stay. The queen bed was wonderfully cozy, and we specifically requested a quiet room, which they delivered perfectly—no noise at all, even during peak hours. At $95, the value for money is outstanding for a studio with this level of comfort and convenience. I’d absolutely book again and highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Wellington.
This hidden gem in Wellington made our stay incredibly convenient! While the main route into downtown involves a steep climb back to the hotel—especially with luggage—the staff at Gilmer Apartment Hotel shared a secret shortcut through a nearby public parking garage elevator. It’s smooth, direct, and completely avoids the uphill trek. The convenience is unmatched, especially when you’re tired or carrying heavy bags. Plus, the hotel’s central location means everything—from cafes to attractions—is just a short walk away. A real standout for travelers who value both comfort and smart access. Would absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it.
Staying at Quest on Johnston Serviced Apartments in Wellington was an absolute delight—far better than I expected! The apartment was incredibly well-equipped with everything you'd need for self-catering: a full kitchen including a fridge, stove, microwave, and even a washing machine. It made cooking meals at home so convenient, especially for longer stays or travelers who want to save on dining out. The bathroom is compact but spotlessly clean and functional. The room itself is just the right size—comfortable, well-organized, and cozy. What stood out most was the attention to detail and overall cleanliness. You can tell the staff truly care about guest experience. With great location, excellent amenities, and a homely feel, this place offers incredible value. I’d definitely book again and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a comfortable, practical, and stress-free stay in Wellington.
I stayed in Wellington for a week to support my son as he started his new school life here, and I chose this hotel because it’s just a short walk from his school. From day one, the front desk manager and housekeeping staff went above and beyond—genuine warmth, thoughtful service, and attention to detail that you rarely get at big chain hotels where everything feels automated. The room itself is well-maintained, with excellent soundproofing so I could sleep peacefully even during noisy city nights. The hot water heater works perfectly, and the shower was truly refreshing—great for unwinding after a long day. I also loved how spacious and functional the room layout was, with modern amenities that work flawlessly. Even though it’s not a brand-new property, the atmosphere feels more personal, human, and welcoming. It’s clear the team cares about guest comfort beyond just checking boxes. If you’re visiting Wellington with family or need a reliable, friendly base near schools or downtown, this place is a real gem. Highly recommend.
Staying at Willis Village was such a pleasant surprise! The location is perfect—just a short walk from downtown Wellington, and public transit is super convenient. The room itself is well-equipped with a washer and dryer, which made laundry stress-free during my trip. I also loved the fully stocked kitchen, allowing me to cook my own meals—great for saving money and enjoying fresh food. The cleanliness was top-notch; everything felt spotless and well-maintained. The vibe of the place is cozy and modern, though you do need to climb a spiral staircase to reach your room—something to keep in mind if you're not up for a bit of walking. Parking is available nearby on the opposite side of the street for $28 per night, but it's only a 1-minute walk, so it’s totally manageable. Overall, this place offers fantastic value and charm—definitely my go-to choice next time I visit Wellington.
Staying at Ascot Motor Lodge was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The moment we arrived, we were relieved to find ample parking—perfect for our 5-meter-long ute, which fit comfortably on the property without any hassle. The lodge itself was spotless, well-maintained, and warmly welcoming thanks to the incredibly friendly owners who went out of their way to make us feel at home. Our room was quiet, cozy, and inviting—ideal for a restful night’s sleep. Location-wise, it’s a breeze to get into Wellington city or explore nearby attractions, whether by car or public transport. Everything we needed was right there, and the attention to detail made all the difference. A truly great stay with excellent value—definitely coming back.
I absolutely loved my stay at Ohtel Wellington! The team went above and beyond—so warm, welcoming, and helpful. My flight got cancelled due to bad weather, but instead of stress, I was quickly rebooked with zero hassle. Now I'm enjoying a gorgeous room with stunning sea views, and it’s such a peaceful escape. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city center and easy access to everything. It's rare to find such a thoughtful, friendly hotel with such a great vibe. I’ll definitely be back.
Staying at Richmond Guest House was an absolute delight. The accommodation is incredibly cozy and spotlessly clean—every detail feels thoughtfully taken care of. The host was warm and welcoming, offering helpful tips on local transport and great dining spots nearby. I felt like a guest in a friend’s home rather than just another traveler. Located just minutes from the city center via public transit, it's super convenient for exploring Wellington. With such a friendly vibe, top-notch cleanliness, and unbeatable value, this place easily earns my highest recommendation. I’ll definitely be back!
Staying at Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers in Wellington was a fantastic experience. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and even helped me check in ahead of time, which made my arrival so much smoother. The room was spotless and well-maintained, with excellent privacy—perfect for a good night's sleep without any disturbances. Location-wise, it can't get much better: right across from the train station and just a short walk from the Bluebridge ferry terminal. Getting around town is super easy, whether you're heading downtown or exploring nearby attractions. I especially appreciated how quiet and clean the space felt, all while being in such a central spot. For budget-conscious travelers who value comfort and convenience, this place is a real gem. Would definitely come back.
Absolutely perfect stay! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to downtown Wellington, with everything you need within easy reach. The apartment is spacious, well-equipped, and even comes with a washer and dryer—huge plus for longer trips. At such a reasonable price, this is hands-down the best choice for visiting Wellington. The host was incredibly friendly and helpful, making the whole experience even more enjoyable. I’d definitely book again—highly recommend!
Staying at Copthorne Hotel Wellington, Oriental Bay was a highlight of my trip to Wellington. The room layout is smart and spacious, with a clean, well-maintained feel from top to bottom—every corner looked fresh and cared for. The view from the window? Absolutely stunning. Waking up to the ocean breeze and sunlight reflecting off the water was pure magic. Breakfast was excellent—plenty of variety, fresh ingredients, and hot options that hit the spot. The only minor note: the front desk staff were polite but slightly reserved, which I guess comes with being in a capital city vibe. Not cold, just more formal—nothing personal! Parking is pricey both across the street and at the hotel, but honestly, it’s expected in a central CBD area like Wellington. It’s not unique to this hotel—it’s just how things work in major urban centers. Still, I’d gladly pay extra for such a prime location and quality stay. Overall, an outstanding experience with great value for money. Would book again without hesitation.
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