Cable car thrills in the capital

This has to be one of the best commutes ever: from the suburbs to the city centre in just five minutes, gliding down the hill in a cute and comfortable funicular cable car.

And the best bit is, Wellington visitors can travel in the opposite direction, from the bustle of Lambton Quay to green and leafy Kelburn, where a fine selection of peaceful activities is within easy reach, as well as spectacular views over the city and harbour.

Why go?

Because this is a Wellington icon and shouldn’t be missed. From 1902, and originally steampowered, the red cable cars have trundled up and down the hill, through three tunnels and over three bridges, multiple times every day since, with only one major upgrade break. That means it has provided a service that has been appreciated by many millions of commuters and visitors.

But it’s more than just a mode of transport: there’s art, too. There are murals at the terminal and en route to enjoy, and the two 100-metre tunnels have light installations that are dazzling and frequently changing, adding an unexpected psychedelic element to the trip.

The gradient is 17 per cent, which is steep by anyone’s measure, and the cable cars are stepped so the floors are horizontal, allowing people to travel standing as well as seated.

Insider tip

There’s an eatery at the top, with wonderful views. You can take a free shuttle to Zealandia, leaving from the Kelburn terminal roughly every 30 minutes.

Afterwards, you can be dropped back in town at the i-Site, if you prefer. You can also walk back down into the city through the Botanic Garden.

On the way/nearby

You’ll want to know all about cable cars by the time you reach the top, so be sure to visit the Cable Car Museum right alongside. There’s technical stuff and history, as well as some entertaining (and occasionally hair-raising) stories from Wellingtonians who have their own private cable cars.

The Botanic Garden is nearby too: full of native and exotic trees, flowers and ponds and gardens both titivated and natural. Or head into the dark at Space Place to learn all about stars and planets and enjoy multimedia presentations. Zealandia has 225 hectares of unspoiled bush, which are home to many species of native birds, including the kiwi and kaka.

How much?

Adult return is $9, children (5-15) and students $5, family passes available, as well as one-way fares. Gold card holders travel free offpeak. The cable car runs every 10or 15 minutes: weekdays from 7am to 10pm, slightly shorter hours at the weekend.

Best time to go

Avoid commuters, but go early enough on a sunny day to enjoy the attractions at the top. wellingtoncablecar.co.nz.