Kelburn Park Wellington: Sports Grounds and Harbour Views Near the Cable Car

Last updated May 2026

Kelburn Park is a sports ground and open reserve at the top of Salamanca Road in Kelburn, a short walk from the Wellington Cable Car terminus. It has rugby and cricket grounds, tennis courts, a playground, and sweeping views across Wellington city and harbour. Entry is free.

Practical Information

Location Salamanca Road, Kelburn, Wellington
Hours Open daily during daylight hours
Admission Free
Facilities Rugby/cricket grounds, tennis courts, playground, picnic areas
Getting There 10-minute walk from the Wellington Cable Car upper terminus; or bus to Kelburn

About the Park

Kelburn Park sits on the ridge above Wellington’s inner city, in the suburb of Kelburn adjacent to Victoria University of Wellington. The park is primarily a sports ground — it has long hosted club rugby and cricket, and the tennis courts are used by the Kelburn Tennis Club. The grounds are well maintained and the park is actively used by the local community and university students.

The park’s position on the Kelburn ridge gives it broad views across Wellington city and the harbour below. It is not a destination in its own right in the way the Botanic Garden is, but for visitors combining a cable car trip with a walk through the suburb, it forms a natural stopping point before heading back down.

Combining with the Cable Car and Botanic Garden

Kelburn Park sits at the top of the cable car route, close to the Wellington Cable Car Museum and the Botanic Garden. A popular half-day circuit takes the cable car up from Lambton Quay, walks through the Botanic Garden, passes Kelburn Park, and returns via the garden or down through Kelburn to the city. The park is easily added to this route without extra effort.

Where to Learn More

Wellington City Council — Parks and Reserves — full listing of Wellington’s green spaces and facilities.

Wellington Cable Car — official site — cable car timetables, fares, and the Cable Car Museum at the top terminus.

FAQ

Where is Kelburn Park?
On Salamanca Road in Kelburn, near the Wellington Cable Car upper terminus and Victoria University.

Is Kelburn Park free?
Yes — the park is free and open during daylight hours.

Can I walk here from the cable car?
Yes — it’s about a 10-minute walk from the cable car upper terminus at the top of Kelburn Parade.

What sports facilities are at Kelburn Park?
Rugby and cricket grounds, tennis courts, and a children’s playground.

Is Kelburn Park near the Botanic Garden?
Yes — the Wellington Botanic Garden is adjacent and the two are easily combined on a walk from the cable car.

Nearby: Wellington Botanic Garden is a short walk from Kelburn Park, with formal gardens, the Lady Norwood Rose Garden, and children’s playground. See Wellington Parks and Reserves for more green spaces across the city.

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