I’ll often get asked where the best spots in Wellington are for photos. We’re really lucky in Wellington as we can easily travel from the city to hills with a view or the coastline. I’ve put together a few of my favourite locations for photos. Keep in mind that the time of day that you go to these locations plays a huge factor in getting the best light. Read more to find a suitable location for your session!
WELLINGTON BEACH PHOTO LOCATIONS
Best time of day for photos: 1 hour before sunset
AT THE SEASIDE - PETONE BEACH
Petone Beach is an easy-access location with great views of Wellington City. In the summertime, this popular spot is covered in bunny tail grass and there are a few different backdrops within walking distance from the car park.
LONG GRASS - EASTBOURNE BEACH
Eastbourne has been a popular spot because of its long grass and beach setting. This is a beautiful spot at sunset. It can be a little windy though so bring a jacket and hair tie (like most areas in Wellington).
THE BEST AFTERNOON LIGHT - REDROCKS Owhiro Bay
A little off the track and it feels like you’re no longer in the city, the entrance to Redrocks a great location which is only a short drive away from central.
SUNSET AND VIEWS - WHITIREIA PARK
Whitireia park is one of those spots that make you feel extremely grateful for living in New Zealand. The view is incredible and it’s an easy spot to get to that gives you some height - great for sunset. It can get a little windy here because of how exposed it is so bring a jacket and a hair tie just incase!
BREAKER BAY - WAHINE MEMORIAL PARK
Looking out over the cook straight this South Wellington location is the perfect out-of-town beach spot. There is something a little wild and rugged that I love about this coastline! It’s great for children who want to run around and much safer than some of the higher lookouts with cliff edges. The car park is really close so there isn’t a hike to get to the best spots. Because of the location, it can be exposed to the weather, this is one of those locations that really need to be visited right before sunset and when it’s not too windy (bring a hair tie just in case).
INNER WELLINGTON CITY PHOTO LOCATIONS
Best time of day for photos: mid-morning or late afternoon if there is tree cover.
WELLINGTON STAPLE - PARLIAMENT BUILDINGS
Wanting a more urban city vibe? Wellington’s parliament buildings are a mix of historic and modern backdrops. This is a location that you require permission to use for professional photos but I can arrange this for you!
CITY LIFE - INNER CITY AND WELLINGTON WATERFRONT
Walking around Wellington there is almost a quirky backdrop in every direction! If you’re wanting some creative urban vibes in your photos let’s explore the city. A great place to start is near Cuba Street or near this shark wall before going across the road to the waterfront.
PARK OR GARDEN PHOTO LOCATIONS IN WELLINGTON
Best time of day for photos: we can get away with almost anytime if there is tree cover
BROOKLYN CENTRAL PARK
Central and shaded from bright sun, this location is perfect for mid day family sessions. Bright sunny days aren’t usually the best light for photos, the shade from the tree cover is a helpful way around this. The park is also dog friendly!
HISTORICAL AND STUNNING - TRUBY KING PARK
This historical site is the former home of Sir Truby King and Lady Isabella King, the founders of the Plunket Society. I love the old brick archways and paths. The garden sweeps around the building giving you a number of spots to pick from. In the late afternoon, you can hear the lions at the zoo roaring.
PERCY SCENIC RESERVE
A nature recreation area with walking tracks and a duck pond. This location is conveniently located Lower Hutt and is perfect for children to run around.
