What to Wear in Wellington in Spring (Ultimate Guide)

Got a spring trip planned to Wellington, New Zealand? Wellington can be fun to visit in the spring, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is mild and dry, with temperatures averaging around 61°F (that's 16°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

To make the most of your trip to Wellington, a good rule of thumb is to pack comfortable clothing that you can layer. Loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics will keep you cool in warmer weather, while a light jacket or cardigan will come in handy for cooler days or evenings. And if you plan on doing any sightseeing, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Nothing like a nasty blister to ruin a good vacation, right?

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Wellington in spring—whether you're visiting the Wellington Zoo, going on a ferry ride to Matiu/Somes Island, exploring the Wellington Botanic Garden, or visiting the Te Papa Museum.

🔗 What should women wear in Wellington in spring?

Wellington in spring is generally mild, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: stylish hat, long-sleeved shirts, lightweight comfortable shoes, jeans, and denim jacket. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Wellington has to offer.

🔗 Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Wellington trip and a terrible one. Not only do hats help you look your best in photos, but they also make you feel more confident and put-together as you explore, adding a touch of style to any outfit. To choose the right hat, consider both function and fashion. A wide-brimmed straw hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun (a good idea in all weather!) while a trilby is ideal for nights out on the town. No matter what your plans are in Wellington, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Long-sleeved shirts

Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Wellington, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Lightweight comfortable shoes

Traveling can be tough on your feet. You're constantly on the move, walking through airports and down crowded streets. And even if you're just sitting on a plane or in a car, your feet can start to swell after hours of being confined in one position. That's why it's important to pack comfortable, lightweight shoes that won't add too much weight to your luggage. But how do you know which shoes are right for Wellington? Look for ones made from breathable materials like mesh or canvas. They should also have good arch support and a cushioned sole to help reduce fatigue.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Wellington, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

🔗 Denim jacket

A denim jacket is great to have in Wellington. They are stylish and can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for any occasion. Denim jackets are also very versatile. They can be worn over a dress for a night out or with jeans and a t-shirt for a casual day exploring. Best of all, denim jackets are lightweight and easy to pack, making them ideal for travel. When choosing a denim jacket for Wellington, look for one that is comfortable and flattering. A classic denim jacket will never go out of style and can be worn year after year. For a more unique look, try a distressed denim jacket or one with embellishments such as embroidery or beads.

Here are some of my favorites:

🔗 What should men wear in Wellington in spring?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: sweaters, stylish hat, jeans, cotton shirts, and light jacket. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Wellington in comfort and style.

🔗 Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Wellington. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Wellington trip and a terrible one. Not only do hats help you look your best in photos, but they also make you feel more confident and put-together as you explore, adding a touch of style to any outfit. To choose the right hat, consider both function and fashion. A wide-brimmed straw hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun (a good idea in all weather!) while a trilby is ideal for nights out on the town. No matter what your plans are in Wellington, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Wellington, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

I found these which would all work great:

🔗 Cotton shirts

Cotton shirts are a travel must-have for a variety of reasons. They're lightweight and breathable, making them perfect for a variety of climates. They're also easy to wash by hand or in a machine, and they tend to dry quickly. Plus, they can be dressed up or down, making them versatile enough to wear for just about any occasion. Choose a style that suits your needs—whether that's a classic button-down shirt or a breezy tunic top.

Here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Wellington, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Wellington will help make your spring visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Wellington has to offer!