A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Shiretoko National Park vs. Wellington for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Shiretoko National Park or Wellington?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Shiretoko National Park or Wellington, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park is a national park remote,natural,scenic,pristine. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking.

Wellington

Wellington is a laid-back, funky, and compact city. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Shiretoko National Park and Wellington: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options


Is there more to do in Shiretoko National Park or Wellington?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wellington. Although Shiretoko National Park and Wellington are both popular with visitors, Wellington has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wellington is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Shiretoko National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Wellington is more touristy than Shiretoko National Park and is popular for its waterfront promenade, quirky cafe culture, and relaxing beaches. It is also home to Zealandia Ecosanctuary. Shiretoko National Park is popular for its pristine ecosystems, diverse wildlife, and rugged coastline.

How is Shiretoko National Park different from Wellington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Wellington and Shiretoko National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Shiretoko National Park or Wellington?

Shiretoko National Park
Wellington

Wellington is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for its museums and history.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Wellington. As the capital city, you'll find a number of museums and sights around town. Check out the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Beehive, the Wellington Museum, and the City Gallery.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Shiretoko National Park. This is a beautiful and pristine park, but there are limited amenities and museums in the area. You can hit up the Shiretoko Rausu Visitor Center for information on the region.


Is the Food Better in Shiretoko National Park or Wellington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Shiretoko National Park
Wellington

Wellington is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for its restaurants.

Dining out in Wellington is an experience not to be missed. There are waterfront restaurants and a vibrant cafe scene around town. You'll also find local markets and many diverse eateries that you can explore.

While Shiretoko National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are a couple of restaurants on the edge of the park, but if you're planning to do any hiking, it's best to bring your own food.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Wellington Better for Nightlife?

Shiretoko National Park
Wellington

Wellington is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Wellington offers plenty to do in the evening. The best nightlife scene is found along Courtenay Place. There you'll find nightclubs, pubs, and cocktail bars. Cuba Street is another fun area with a bit more of a local vibe, and the waterfront is another great nightlife district in the city.

Shiretoko National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Wellington Better for Beaches?

Shiretoko National Park
Wellington

Wellington is a well-known place for the beach. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Wellington. There are nice beaches within walking distance of the city center. There are also beaches that are well worth the drive if you're looking to get a bit out of town. In the summer months, there are swimming beaches, and year around they have nice views and a good atmosphere.

Shiretoko National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Shiretoko National Park or Wellington Better for Hiking?

Shiretoko National Park
Wellington

Shiretoko National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit Shiretoko National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The park is pristine with striking and varied landscapes as well as diverse wildlife. Hiking is the best way to experience the area, and the scenic views, and world class hiking trails are among the best.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wellington. The area has rolling hills and beautiful coastlines that are filled with walking trails and scenic views. Some of the more popular trails in the area are the Red Rocks walk and the City-to-Sea walk.

Is the Shopping Better in Shiretoko National Park or Wellington?

Shiretoko National Park
Wellington

Wellington is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Wellington. For the city's best shopping, head to the "Golden Mile". This is the area defined by Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street and Courtenay Place. There are boutique designers and high end fashion outlets throughout the area. The city also has many great markets and local shopping areas.

Shiretoko National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Wellington Better for Families?

Shiretoko National Park
Wellington

Wellington is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Shiretoko National Park is not as famous, but is still a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Wellington is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's the Wellington Zoo as well as Island Bay Marine Education Centre, both of which are great for animal-lovers. Waitangi Park is a nice park where kids can run around and play, and if you're looking for something indoors, head to the Space Place at Carter Observatory. If everyone needs some down time, there's always the beach with is fun to hang out at.

Shiretoko National Park is a family-friendly remote,natural,scenic,pristine. Kids who enjoy an outdoor adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are wildlife viewing opportunities as well as mult-day hiking trails. Some parts of the park are challenging to access, so younger kids may be limited in what they can do.


Is Shiretoko National Park or Wellington Better for Couples?

Shiretoko National Park
Wellington

Shiretoko National Park is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Shiretoko National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, wildlife, and pristine hiking trails will enjoy a visit to this remote and natural park. There are many great hikes as well as scenic spots that you can explore.

Wellington is a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for couples to visit. The botanical gardens are beautiful to explore, and there is also a bird sanctuary in the area as well. Couple's will also enjoy the many nice restaurants and beautiful outdoor space around town.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Wellington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shiretoko National Park
Wellington

Both Shiretoko National Park and Wellington are very good destinations for backpackers.

Shiretoko National Park is a very popular remote,natural,scenic,pristine for backpackers and budget travelers. Multi-day treks are a great way to explore the park and see the parts that are less popular with tourists.

Wellington is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Located on the south side of the North Island, many backpackers use this city as a gateway to the South Island. There are many hostels around town and other fellow backpackers to hang out with.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Wellington Better for Students?

Shiretoko National Park
Wellington

Wellington is a nice place to visit for students. However, Shiretoko National Park is not popular with students.

Wellington is a good city to visit for students. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is a nice setting for students.

Shiretoko National Park is not popular with students.


Is Shiretoko National Park or Wellington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Shiretoko National Park
Wellington

Wellington is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Wellington. There are city buses, trains, and ferries that are popular with tourists and locals alike.

Public transit is quite limited in Shiretoko National Park. While there are buses that travel from Utoro to the east coast, they are infrequent. Your best options for visiting the park are having a private vehicle or joining a tour. Many parts of the park are only accessible by hiking or by boat.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Wellington a more walkable city?

Shiretoko National Park
Wellington

Wellington is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Shiretoko National Park is not as famous, but is still a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for its walkability.

Wellington is a very walkable destination. This is one of New Zealand's most walkable cities and it has a compact city center.

Shiretoko National Park is somewhat walkable. It's a vast park with many hiking and cycling trails.

For even more information, also check out Is Shiretoko National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Wellington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wellington or Shiretoko National Park?

How long in Shiretoko National Park or Wellington?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Shiretoko National Park and Wellington. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Shiretoko National Park than in Wellington. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Shiretoko National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Wellington.

Families should spend more time in Wellington than Shiretoko National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Wellington, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Wellington than Shiretoko National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Wellington that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wellington than Shiretoko National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Wellington.


  • How many days in Shiretoko National Park or Wellington? Ideal Length of Stay
    Shiretoko National Park 3-4 
    Wellington 2-3

One day in Shiretoko National Park or Wellington?

With around the national park remote,natural,scenic,pristine of Shiretoko National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find nightlife and food around the laid-back city of Wellington. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Shiretoko National Park or Wellington?

With around the destination of Shiretoko National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Wellington is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Five days in Shiretoko National Park or Wellington?

Shiretoko National Park, a popular remote,natural,scenic,pristine, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Wellington is a great place to explore. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

A week in Shiretoko National Park or Wellington?

Shiretoko National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wellington. Most people come for the beaches. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Wellington or Shiretoko National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Shiretoko National Park is $74, while the average daily cost in Wellington is $103. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Shiretoko National Park and Wellington in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Shiretoko National Park $33
    Wellington $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Shiretoko National Park $66
    Wellington $120
Compare Hotels in Shiretoko National Park and Wellington

Looking for a hotel in Shiretoko National Park or Wellington? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Shiretoko National Park


Hotels in Wellington


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Shiretoko National Park Hotel Prices and Wellington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Shiretoko National Park $26
    Wellington $12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Wellington

Also for Wellington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Departure Transfer: Wellington Central City Centre Hotels to Wellington Airport: $13
  • Arrival Transfer: Wellington Airport to Central Wellington City Centre Hotels: $13
  • Private Transfer from Wellington hotels to Wellington Cruise Port: $26
  • Private Transfer from Wellington Cruise Port to Wellington Hotels: $26
  • Wellington Airport (WLG) to Wellington - Arrival Private Transfer: $28
  • Wētā Workshop Experience with Guided Transfers: $61
  • Private Transfer with Wellington Dial a Driver: $72
  • Wellington Airport Transfer to Wellington Hotels and Vice versa: $75
  • Private Airport Transfer: $78

Is it cheaper to fly into Shiretoko National Park or Wellington?

Prices for flights to both Wellington and Shiretoko National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Shiretoko National Park $25
    Wellington $29

Typical Food Prices in Wellington

For Wellington, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner
    $8.91

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Wellington

For Wellington, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Walking Food Tour Of Wellington: $151
  • A Taste Of Wellington Food Tour (half Day): $185

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Shiretoko National Park $15
    Wellington $16

Tours and Activities in Wellington

For Wellington, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Return Cable Car Ticket: $6.53
  • Museum of NZ Te Papa Tongarewa: Gallipoli Early Entry Ticket: $8.91
  • Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa Guided Tour: $12
  • Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa: Mana Māori Tour: $12
  • Museum of NZ Te Papa Tongarewa Twilight Express Tour: $12
  • Museum of New Zealand Te Papa: Small Group Guided Tour: $14
  • Wellington Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Skip the Line: Staglands Wildlife Reserve Entry Ticket: $16
  • Private Group Puzzle-Solving Adventure Game: Spaceship: $27
  • Private Group Puzzle-Solving Adventure Game: Temple: $27
  • Wētā Workshop Experience in Wellington: $33
  • Wētā Workshop Experience and Guided Tour: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Shiretoko National Park $10
    Wellington $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Wellington

Also in Wellington, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wellington Craft Brewery Half Day Tour: $93
  • Wellington Craft Brewery Half-Day Guided Tour with Tastings: $95
  • 5 hour Martinborough shared Chefs Wine Tour with Gourmet lunch: $151
  • Martinborough Full Day Wine Tour: $169
  • Chefs Private Martinborough wine tour with Gourmet Lunch: $356


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Shiretoko National Park and Wellington, we can see that Wellington is more expensive. And not only is Shiretoko National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Shiretoko National Park is in Asia and Wellington is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Shiretoko National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Shiretoko National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Wellington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Wellington than you might in Shiretoko National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Shiretoko National Park Expensive? and Is Wellington Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Shiretoko National Park or Wellington?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Wellington is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Shiretoko National Park has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Shiretoko National Park or Wellington in the Summer?

Both Wellington and Shiretoko National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Shiretoko National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Wellington for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Shiretoko National Park is generally around the same temperature as Wellingtonin January. Daily temperatures in Shiretoko National Park average around 18°C (64°F), and Wellington fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Wellington, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Shiretoko National Park often gets less sunshine than Wellingtonin January. Shiretoko National Park gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wellington receives 242 hours of full sun.

Shiretoko National Park usually gets more rain in July than Wellingtonin January. Shiretoko National Park gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Shiretoko National Park 18°C (64°F) 
    Wellington 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Shiretoko National Park or Wellington in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Shiretoko National Park and Wellington. Most visitors come to Shiretoko National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Wellington because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Shiretoko National Park is cooler than Wellington in the autumn. The daily temperature in Shiretoko National Park averages around 10°C (51°F) in October, and Wellington fluctuates around 15°C (58°F)in April.

Shiretoko National Park usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wellington during autumn. Shiretoko National Park gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Wellington receives 163 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Shiretoko National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Wellingtonin April. Shiretoko National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Shiretoko National Park 10°C (51°F) 
    Wellington 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Shiretoko National Park or Wellington in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Shiretoko National Park as well as Wellington. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Wellington this time of year.

The weather in Shiretoko National Park can be very cold. In the winter, Shiretoko National Park is much colder than Wellington. Typically, the winter temperatures in Shiretoko National Park in January average around -6°C (20°F), and Wellington averages at about 10°C (49°F)in July.

In the winter, Shiretoko National Park often gets less sunshine than Wellingtonin July. Shiretoko National Park gets 108 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wellington receives 122 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Wellington. Shiretoko National Park usually gets less rain in January than Wellingtonin July. Shiretoko National Park gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Shiretoko National Park -6°C (20°F) 
    Wellington 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Shiretoko National Park or Wellington in the Spring?

Both Wellington and Shiretoko National Park are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Shiretoko National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wellington for the beaches.

It's quite cold in Shiretoko National Park in the spring. In April, Shiretoko National Park is generally much colder than Wellingtonin October. Daily temperatures in Shiretoko National Park average around 5°C (40°F), and Wellington fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Shiretoko National Park usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wellington during spring. Shiretoko National Park gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Wellington receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Shiretoko National Park usually receives less rain than Wellingtonin October. Shiretoko National Park gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Shiretoko National Park 5°C (40°F) 
    Wellington 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Wellington and Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park Wellington
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -6°C (20°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb -7°C (19°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Mar -3°C (28°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 5°C (40°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 77 mm (3 in) 10°C (51°F) 113 mm (4.4 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in) 10°C (49°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Aug 20°C (67°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 98 mm (3.9 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 4°C (38°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)