About Wellington Cable Car
Wellington unfolds through the windows as the little red Cable Car travels between sweeping views from Kelburn and the bustle of Lambton Quay. Hillside homes, colourful tunnel displays and glimpses of the harbour transform this short journey into one of the capital’s most memorable experiences.
The Story of This Place
Wellington Cable Car opened on 22 February 1902, creating a vital connection between the city centre and the developing hillside suburb of Kelburn. Originally operated by the Kelburn & Karori Tramway Company, it later became part of Wellington’s public transport network. The original wooden cars were retired in 1979, but two survive at the Cable Car Museum alongside the original winding machinery room that once powered the system.
Cultural Significance
The Cable Car has helped shape Wellington’s growth and daily life since 1902, linking the central city with its steep hillside suburbs. Still used by commuters, students and visitors, it remains both a working form of public transport and a much-loved symbol of the capital.
The Experience of Visiting
From Kelburn, the Cable Car descends to Lambton Quay in central Wellington, while the return journey climbs back up the hillside. Along the way, passengers pass hillside homes and colourful tunnel displays, with changing views of Wellington’s skyline, harbour and surrounding hills. Pure Discoveries® travellers take the downhill journey from Kelburn to central Wellington.
Natural Features
The journey connects Wellington’s compact central city with the green hillside of Kelburn. Panoramic views from the upper terminal take in the harbour, city skyline and surrounding hills, while glimpses of this dramatic setting appear along the route.
Good to Know
- The Wellington Cable Car opened in 1902 and travels along a 609-metre track, climbing to an altitude of 119 metres.
- The journey takes approximately 3 to 5 minutes, with cars normally departing every 10 minutes.
- Two cars are permanently connected by underground cables and move in opposite directions along the hillside.
Little-Known Facts
The colourful tunnel displays are created using rows of synchronised LED lights. Their patterns can be changed for special occasions, with previous displays reflecting events including Matariki and Pride.
The Cable Car uses regenerative braking to generate electricity as the cars slow down or when more passengers travel downhill than uphill. The electricity is exported back into the local power network, with the Cable Car operating as a distributed generator.
One Thing to Know
In just a few minutes, the Cable Car combines city views, colourful tunnels and a piece of Wellington’s transport history.