The Wellington Botanic Garden is a peaceful escape right in the city. You reach it by taking the Kelburn Cable Car from Lambton Quay. When you get off at the top station, the entrance to the garden is just a short walk right next to it.

You can visit the Begonia House, which has tropical plants and is warm inside even on a cold Wellington day. There are also nice views back over the city in some parts of the garden.

When you want to head back, you can either ride the cable car again or walk downhill through the garden into the city centre. The walk takes around 30 minutes and is easy if you do not mind a few steps.