
Wellington/Mrs. Chippy Monument Top Hotel Picks
Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability

Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
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.

This hotel is a perfect blend of family-friendly amenities and business conveniences! Let the kids enjoy the play area and childcare services while you unwind in the indoor pool or sauna. Located just minutes from Cuba Street, you’ll have easy access to restaurants, shops, and the famous Te Papa Museum. The elegantly renovated rooms offer a cozy retreat, and Forage Restaurant & Bar serves unforgettable dining with panoramic views. With perks like Chinese guest services, a fitness center, and valet parking, it’s an ideal stay for both leisure and work trips!

Nestled in the heart of the city, this hotel is just a short walk from Parliament and the financial district, offering prime location and convenience. With 129 beautifully appointed rooms and free Wi-Fi, your stay will be both comfortable and connected. Enjoy top-notch amenities including a fitness center, modern dining at Jardin Grill, and cocktails at The Green Room. Business travelers will love the dedicated meeting floor with 3 meeting rooms and a custom boardroom. Plus, Chinese-friendly services and kid-friendly options make it perfect for families!

This hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Wellington, just a short walk to iconic attractions like Te Papa Museum and the Botanic Garden. The modern rooms are designed for comfort, featuring plenty of natural light, smart flat-screen TVs, and work desks—ideal for both leisure and business travelers. Families will love the kids' play area and childcare services, while the fitness center and bar offer great ways to unwind. With so many amenities, it’s a stay that’s as relaxing as it is convenient!




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

From the moment we stepped into the hotel, we were greeted with such warmth and hospitality—every staff member went above and beyond. Special thanks to Kate, who not only shared detailed insights about the property but also gave us a fantastic local restaurant recommendation that turned out to be one of the best meals of our trip. The attention to detail, the seamless check-in, and the overall vibe made our stay truly memorable. Located just steps away from public transport, it’s incredibly convenient for exploring Wellington. This place isn’t just comfortable—it feels like home, with an unbeatable mix of service, location, and charm. Highly recommended for any traveler looking for a top-tier experience.

Staying at Sofitel Wellington was an absolute delight from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—walking distance to all the main attractions, and just a short stroll from vibrant restaurants and scenic waterfront views. The staff went above and beyond with warm, genuine hospitality; every interaction felt personal and welcoming. The room was spacious, impeccably clean, and beautifully designed with modern amenities that made our stay incredibly comfortable. Breakfast was a highlight—fresh, diverse, and full of delicious options, from local specialties to classic continental fare. It’s clear this hotel cares about guest experience at every level. If you're visiting Wellington, this is truly one of the best places to stay.

Staying at Novotel Wellington was an absolute pleasure! The room was spacious, spotless, and well-equipped with everything I needed—clean linens, modern amenities, and a comfy bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The staff were incredibly friendly and professional, always ready to help with a smile. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Wellington, just a short walk from public transit, shopping districts, and local cafes. I loved how easy it was to explore the city on foot. Breakfast was a highlight—freshly prepared, with a great mix of continental and local options, including delicious pastries and strong coffee. Overall, this hotel offers excellent value, comfort, and convenience. I’d definitely recommend it and will be returning next time I visit Wellington.

Staying at The Sebel Wellington Thorndon was an absolute highlight of my trip to Wellington. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the city center, with great access to public transit, restaurants, and local shops. I was especially impressed by how well-maintained and thoughtfully designed the room was. Even though it’s not overly large, every detail felt intentional—clean, modern, and surprisingly spacious. There were no complaints about amenities either; everything worked perfectly, including the laundry facilities. What really stood out was the value for money—this level of comfort and convenience at this price point is rare. I’d absolutely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Wellington.

Staying at Ibis Wellington was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The room was spotlessly clean, and the daily housekeeping service was efficient and respectful of privacy. While the mattress could be slightly more comfortable, it still provided a good night's rest overall. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from Lambton Quay, with endless dining options, shops, and attractions nearby. We especially appreciated the luggage storage facility, which made our arrival and departure stress-free. The front desk staff were incredibly helpful, friendly, and always ready to assist with any request. It’s clear they care about guest comfort and satisfaction. For the price point, this hotel offers exceptional value. I’d definitely book here again on my next trip to Wellington.

Arrived in Wellington during a fierce 11-level storm with heavy rain—felt like we were going through a real-life challenge! Even compared to Shanghai typhoons, this was wild. But the hotel held up surprisingly well—solid construction, no leaks, and great protection from the elements. The location is super convenient, right on the main street and easy to find. Inside, the rooms are clean, spacious, and comfortable—bed was cozy, and everything worked perfectly. Staff were incredibly helpful, offering local tips and making our stay stress-free. Despite the weather drama, this place made all the difference. Great value for money and definitely a top pick for future visits to Wellington.

Staying at Mercure Wellington Central City Hotel & Apartments was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—right next to a vibrant mix of restaurants and bars, making it easy to enjoy dinner or drinks without needing to travel far. I opted for the studio-style apartment, which I loved—the layout was smart, the space felt spacious and well-designed, and everything was clean and modern. The bed was incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night’s sleep. Everything in the city center is within walking distance, from the waterfront to museums and shopping areas. The staff were warm and welcoming throughout my stay, always ready to help. It’s rare to find such a perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and hospitality. I’d definitely return and recommend this hotel to anyone visiting 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!
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