Lambton Quay and Cuba Street are Wellington's two main shopping strips, and they're 15 minutes apart on foot. Lambton Quay is the main event: known as the Golden Mile, it carries the department stores, New Zealand fashion labels and international brands through the heart of the CBD, with arcades and heritage buildings like the Old Bank Arcade breaking up the walk.
Cuba Street is the independent quarter. Vintage and thrift stores sit beside record shops, local designers and craft stores, and the pedestrian mall in the middle keeps the whole street lively.
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor sits on the Golden Mile, so start there and wander south to Cuba as the bags fill up. Pack an empty one in your suitcase. You'll need it for the trip home.
Lambton Quay and Cuba Street, Wellington Central 6011 Wellington New Zealand
MondayStreets always open; most stores trade roughly 9am to 6pm
TuesdayStreets always open; most stores trade roughly 9am to 6pm
WednesdayStreets always open; most stores trade roughly 9am to 6pm
ThursdayStreets always open; most stores trade roughly 9am to 6pm
FridayStreets always open; many stores trade later
SaturdayStreets always open; most stores trade roughly 10am to 5pm
SundayStreets always open; most stores trade roughly 10am to 5pm