Got a Summer Trip Planned to Wellington? Here’s What to Wear

Got a summer trip planned to Wellington, New Zealand? Wellington can be fun to visit in the summer, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is mild and dry, with temperatures averaging around 68°F (that's 20°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 summer—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 summer?

Wellington in summer is generally mild, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: light jacket, lightweight pants, cardigans, comfortable flats or loafers, and stylish hat. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Wellington has to offer.

🔗 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.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

🔗 Lightweight pants

If you're planning a trip to Wellington that involves any sort of physical activity—hiking, climbing, biking, etc.—you'll want to pack a pair or two of lightweight pants. They're much more comfortable than jeans or khakis when you're sweating, and they'll dry much faster if you get caught in a rain shower. You can also roll them up and stuff them into your backpack or suitcase without taking up too much space.

Why not treat yourself before you go:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Wellington in summer. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

Here are some options I'd recommend:

🔗 Comfortable flats or loafers

Packing the right shoes for Wellington can make the difference between a comfortable trip and a difficult one. While there are many factors to consider when packing your shoes, comfort is always the most important. Flats or loafers are a great option for travel, as they can be easily slipped on and off at security checkpoints and are generally super comfortable to walk in.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 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.

Why not treat yourself before you go:

🔗 What should men wear in Wellington in summer?

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

🔗 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.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

🔗 Chinos

Chinos are the perfect travel companion. They're comfortable, they don't wrinkle, and they go with everything. Plus, they can be dressed up or down, making them the perfect versatile piece for Wellington. You'll thank yourself when you have something reliable to wear on those long days of exploring. When choosing chinos, try to pick a neutral color like khaki or olive green. These colors will go with everything so you'll only need a pair or two.

Any of these should work:

🔗 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.

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.

These would be perfect:

🔗 Loafers or dress shoes

While most people focus on packing their casual clothes and shoes for travel, it's important to remember to pack a pair or two of dressier shoes as well. Loafers and dress shoes can come in handy for a number of different occasions, from wedding receptions to nights out on the town. And while you might not want to spend a lot of money on shoes that you'll only be wearing occasionally, it's still worth investing in a good quality pair that will be comfortable and last for years to come.

Here are a few of my top picks:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Wellington will help make your summer 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!