ASPA 2023 Local Conference Guide

Finding the conference venue

There are three Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington campuses around Wellington. The conference will be taking place at the Kelburn Campus.

Kelburn campus is a ten-to-fifteen-minute walk up the hill from the city centre. The campus is on regular bus routes and is a short walk from Wellington Cable Car. Find out how to get to and between our campuses on foot, by bike, or on public transport as well as parking options.

Nearby eateries

There are several eateries around Kelburn Campus. In particular The LAB, Milk & Honey, and Louie’s are popular coffee spots that also have tasty treats and meal options.

Be active

Discount rates to access the University Recreation Centre have been arranged for conference delegates. This includes access to the Functional Fitness Room, Cardio Room, Stretch Room and Group Fitness Classes.

Wellington is an incredibly compact city so no matter where you choose to stay, you’ll find that nothing is too far away.

High Range Hotels

Doubletree by Hilton

• 15% off the best available rate (26-30 November)
• Select “Special Rates” and enter “CON15” in the “GROUP CODE” section.

Mid Range Hotels

Movenpick

• 13% off the best available rate (26-30 November)
• Use the link provided above to access discount rates

Lower Range Hotels

Proximity

• 15% off the best available rate (26-30 November)
• Under the Discount Code drop-down menu select “Rate Access / Corporate Code” and enter “CON15”

Quest Hotels

• Fixed rate of $190/night for a studio and $230/night for one bedroom (24 November – 1 December)
• Applies to all 7 Wellington properties when booking through the Quest app (Code: ASPA/SESNZ23)

Boulcott Suites / Astelia Apartment Hotel

• 20% off the best available rate (26-30 November)
• Use this LINK, select dates and click on “VIEW RATES” for Boulcott Suites or Astelia Apartment Hotel

Hostels

There are many hostels around Wellington. If you are looking for this type of accommodation, we recommend the following hostels that are located near the University:

• Trek Global Backpackers is located closest to the University at one of the best prices in town! https://trekglobalbackpackers.nz/
• YHA Wellington is a favorite amongst backpackers, and offers discounts for Hostelworld members. https://www.yha.co.nz/hostels/north-island-hostels/yha-wellington
• The Marion is a slightly more up-scale hostel with a boutique style. https://www.themarionhostel.com/

Air BnB and private arrangements

If you are seeking alternative arrangements such as an Air BnB, the closest suburbs to Te Herenga Waka are Te Aro, Kelburn, Thorndon, Northland, and Mount Victoria.

Wellington is a small city, with most central areas within 45 minutes walking. However, it is a hilly city and can be quite windy. If you choose to walk, make sure you have rain resistant and warm layers!

Private Vehicle

• A car is not necessary for getting around Wellington, though having a car is a great way to access some of the stunning natural beauty just 30 minutes’ drive from the city.
• Parking can be a challenge around the University. If you do rent a car, it is best to arrive early in the morning and secure a spot at one of the University parking lots. Full day parking costs $12/day in these carparks but can be upwards of $30/day in the city centre. Parking services are very vigilant around Wellington, so be sure to check the regulations around the spaces you park in.

Public Transport

• For access to public transport, you may wish to purchase a Snapper card. The card itself costs $10, though some retailers set a different price. Most trips within the city cost between $1 and $2 one-way.
• If you do not purchase a snapper card, buses will accept payment with cash. There are no EFTPOS machines on the buses.
• Metlink is Wellingtons service for public transport. Information on bus routes, schedules, and delays are updated on their website. Every stop has a four-digit code, that you can type in for details about specific bus arrivals. https://www.metlink.org.nz/
• To/From Te Herenga Waka Kelburn Campus
  • Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington has its own designated bus stop “Wellington University – Stop B” which is accessible by bus routes 18, 21, 22, and 37.
  • From the CBD, you may also enjoy a ride up the famous Wellington Cable Car, which has a stop that is 5 minutes’ walk from the Kelburn Campus… and then continues up the hill to its final stop at the Botanic Gardens.

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