Last updated June 2026
The Cable Car Museum is a free heritage museum located at the Kelburn terminus of the Wellington Cable Car. It occupies the original winding house and preserves the story of Wellington’s iconic transport system through restored grip cars, the historic winding machinery, photographs and a short film. The museum sits beside Space Place at Carter Observatory and provides direct access to the Wellington Botanic Garden. Entry is free and the museum is open daily.
Practical Information
| Location | 1A Upland Road, Kelburn (Kelburn terminus of the Wellington Cable Car) |
| Hours | Daily 10am – 5pm |
| Admission | Free general admission |
| Getting there | Ride the Wellington Cable Car from Cable Car Lane, 280 Lambton Quay (adult one-way $6.50; return $12) |
| Nearby | Space Place at Carter Observatory, Wellington Botanic Garden, Kelburn Park |
| Accessibility | Level access, wheelchair-accessible lift between floors, accessible toilets nearby; cable car is wheelchair accessible |
About the Cable Car Museum
The Wellington Cable Car has operated since 22 February 1902, when it opened to serve the growing Kelburn and Karori suburbs. Originally run by the Kelburn and Karori Cable Tramway Company, the line was later electrified and the current fleet of cars entered service in 1979. The museum is housed in the original winding house and forms part of Museums Wellington.
Exhibits focus on the mechanical and social history of the cable car. Visitors can see Grip Car No. 3 from the early 1900s, the “Relentless Red Rattler” from the 1950s–1970s, and the winding machinery that operated between 1930 and 1978. A short film traces the line’s development from the 1900s to the present.
The museum offers views over Wellington city and the harbour from the Kelburn terminus. It is surrounded by the Wellington Botanic Garden, making it an easy stop for visitors exploring the hillside attractions.
What to See
The main displays include two restored grip cars, the preserved winding machine room, and interpretive panels with historic photographs. A short film provides an overview of the cable car’s evolution. The gift shop is located on the entry level.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the free entry and the chance to sit inside the historic cars while learning how the cable system worked. Many enjoy the short film and the views from the terminus before heading into the Botanic Garden.
Reviewers note the compact size makes it a quick but informative stop, especially when combined with a cable car ride and a visit to nearby Space Place or the gardens.
Where to Learn More
Museums Wellington – Cable Car Museum: Official page with current hours, exhibits and accessibility details.
Wellington Cable Car: Timetable, fares and information for riding the cable car to the museum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Cable Car Museum?
At 1A Upland Road, Kelburn, at the top of the Wellington Cable Car line from 280 Lambton Quay. It is also reachable by bus or on foot through the Botanic Garden.
Is the Cable Car Museum free?
Yes, general admission is free. The cable car ride itself has separate fares.
What are the opening hours?
Daily from 10am to 5pm.
What are the current cable car fares?
Adult one-way $6.50, return $12. Child and concession rates are also available; check wellingtoncablecar.co.nz for details.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it offers level access, a wheelchair-accessible lift and accessible toilets nearby. The cable car itself is also accessible.
When did the cable car open?
The Wellington Cable Car opened to the public on 22 February 1902.
What exhibits are on display?
Restored grip cars including Grip Car No. 3, the original winding machinery, the “Relentless Red Rattler” car, historic photographs and a short film.
Can I visit without riding the cable car?
Yes, you can walk up through the Wellington Botanic Garden or take a bus to Kelburn.
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