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Oh snap! So you're heading to Wellington soon, and looking for the spots to capture your next TikTok, Reel, or scrapbook shot? We've compiled a picture perfect list of places to fill your camera roll, as you travel throughout the city and experience some amazing attractions, lookouts, and landmarks. So charge your phone or load up another roll of film, and get exploring!

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Just a few minutes' drive from the airport, ask your Uber driver (or whichever legend has picked you up from your flight) to stop off at the Miramar Cutting. Atop the hill lies the movie-making capital's supersized tribute to Hollywood. The large letters appearing to fly away in the breeze are a nod to the iconic windy weather - so snap a pic of the giant sign to make your Welly visit official. 

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photo ops with trolls

Whether you're a Lord of the Rings buff or just curious about the world of filmmaking, a stop at Wētā Workshop is a Wellington must-do. Embark on a guided experience into the studio's creativity or simply browse the store and mini-museum. First of all though, you'll need to sneak past the trolls that stand guard outside. Word on the street is that they love being in the limelight, so capture an action shot with them and you'll soon befriend these gentle giants. 

photo ops with trolls
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Splashing innocent passers-by since 1969, this quintessential Wellington sculpture is a favourite amongst locals and visitors along Cuba Mall. Bright buckets of red, yellow, and blue make for an entertaining watch as water cascades down the fountain - and yes, a few buckets are intentionally designed to splash overboard! One of its claims to fame was a visit by Elijah Wood during the filming of The Lord of the Rings when he drunkenly climbed the sculpture and relieved himself... and while we wouldn't recommend this, we do suggest grabbing a selfie or an action shot of your mates getting soaked!

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Scenic Landscape Mt Victoria Panorama day shot sunshine Credit Johnny Hendrikus

If you didn't head to the summit of Mount Victoria, did you even visit Wellington? Panoramic views aplenty reward those who hike (or drive) to the top, with a viewing platform that's equally as scenic during the day or by night. If you're an eager Fellowship of the Ring fan (and do a bit of Googling), you might also spot some filming locations along the trails - like where Frodo and his fellow Hobbits hid under a tree from the Nazgûl Dark Riders. Take some props and replicate the scene for yourself. 

Scenic Landscape Mt Victoria Panorama day shot sunshine Credit Johnny Hendrikus
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Faithfully transporting residents and tourists alike between Lambton Quay and the Kelburn hillside for over a century, the bright red Cable Car is a Wellington institution. Find your own postcard-perfect moment atop the lookout, where you can photograph the funicular travelling along the tracks overlooking the city's skyline. Jump aboard for an epic journey of your own - and be sure to capture the colourful light installations illuminating the two tunnels, often themed for the latest special occasion. 

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New Zealand's national museum features six floors of mesmerising art and engaging exhibitions - but for us at Weta Workshop, the Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War is one close to our hearts. This profound and poignant exhibition tells the stories of WWI in and emotional and empathetic way, through eight larger-than-life soldiers. Our team of artists and technicians took over 24,000 hours to intricately craft these characters, down to the individual hairs and tears. Take a moment to pause, reflect and take in the history of New Zealand's war efforts through conflict, heroism, and heartbreak. 

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A new addition to the city's vibrant waterfront, this multi-coloured marvel allows you to become the 'I' in Wellington. Take your posse on the platform, strike a pose, and help make Wellington 'complete'. Every now and then, the letters are re-coated with new designs and colours, making for a unique picture every time. Don't forget to hashtag #inwellington on the 'gram to join in on the buzz. 

Plus, did we mention it's a few minutes' walk from here to the bus stop for our There and Back Again experience...?

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If you've got more time, the Botanic Gardens, Oriental Bay, and Hannahs Laneway are also primo photo ops. And as the saying goes, pics or it didn't happen! So the only question is, where will you start snapping first?