Sometimes we just need a weekend away and what better place than the world’s coolest little capital. Whether you’re looking for a girly weekend, a romantic getaway or a solo adventure, Wellington has it all. After living here for a year, I’ve been completely charmed by the little city that packs a huge punch so I wanted to share the makings of my perfect weekend in Wellington so you can get the most out of your trip!
Friday Night
Step off the plane, make your way past the giant Lord of the Rings statues in the airport and head straight in to town. Drop off your stuff and dive right into the action on Cuba Street. Friday night see the street play host to a night market offering a huge range of street food from both trucks and restaurants. Take your pick, find a seat and enjoy before picking one of the bars to kick off your night. Laundry and Havana (a lot of place don’t stray far from the “Cuba” theme) are personal favourites with San Fran playing host to live bands frequently. If you’re lucky, you might even see the next kiwi star.
Saturday Morning
Grab breakfast at Best Ugly Bagels before trawling the Cuba Street op shops for that perfect vintage bargain. With bags in hand, take the famous cable car up to the Botanic Gardens for a great view of the city. Be sure to take some time to explore the beautiful gardens before embarking on your return journey. When back in town, make a quick stop at the Beehive while deciding whether Tommy Millions or Sal’s Pizza is going to be your lunchtime pizza slice of choice.
Saturday Afternoon
The most popular place in the city to take in the view from above has to be Mount Victoria. However, there are much better (and more tourist-free) places to take in the sunset over the city. My favourite is the abandoned war bunkers on Brooklyn Hill. It’s only a short hike up to the top and you’ll be greeted by graffiti covered ruins looking out over the harbour.
Saturday Night
Escape from the bustle of Courtenay Place down Hannah’s Laneway for dinner. If you’re after a fancy setting, check out Shepherd, the innovative, modern restaurant that is often hailed as one of Wellington’s best. If a laid back bar is more your pace, head to Golding’s Free Dive which serves a great range of drinks as well as pizzas from nearby Pizza Pomodoro. Follow up the food with a cocktail from The Library and see where the night takes you. With the best nightlife in the city on the doorstep, it’s easy to find something of interest.
Looking for other New Zealand inspiration? Check out my New Zealand archive here.
Sunday Morning
No weekend in Wellington would be complete without brunch and with so many amazing places, you’ll be hard-pushed to not find somewhere amazing to start your final day. As someone who doesn’t eat eggs, brunch is a problematic meal but I’ve heard great things about Olive and Floriditas for the classic brunch experience. However, if, like me, you prefer something a little different on your morning menu, try Husk. Tucked down a fairy lit alley it serves fried chicken, tacos and an amazing duck burger as part of the brunch menu. Hallelujah.
Sunday Afternoon
Grab an ice cream from Kaffee Eis (The Ferrero Rocher one is seriously amazing) and take a walk around the harbour. Stop off at Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, before continuing on to Oriental Bay. If you have time before your flight, grab a final bite to eat at Beach Babylon or Coene’s on the waterfront while wondering why so many people bother living in Auckland when Wellington is right here.
What are your favourite Wellington activities? Let me know below!
Katie x
