If you know where to look, you’ll find some of Wellington’s hidden gems.
Our capital city has plenty to offer the curious traveller
Pack a pair of sensible walking shoes because Wellington is easy to explore on foot. Which is just as well because it can take a while to locate some of its best-kept secrets. This is a destination where fantastic eateries and cool bars are discreetly tucked away down alleyways, through mysterious doors and at the end of long hallways. Save yourself some time and take a short cut to some of our capital city's many highlights.
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK
Tatsushi is a charming and inexpensive Japanese restaurant on Edward St. Keep going down what looks like a dead-end alley – you’ll find it around the corner, along with a buzzy bar that’s also completely hidden from the street.
Wellington’s foodie scene is on fire right now and one of the highlights is brilliant newish eatery Highwater on Cuba St. The food is tasty and seasonal and the service is slick and friendly. As well as breakfast, lunch and dinner, Highwater also offers a chef's menu for a minimum of two people.
If you fancy coffee and a delicious iced bun for morning tea, Starta Bread Kitchen is a winner. Another hidden gem, you’ll find it tucked near the end of Left Bank Lane, off Cuba Mall. Look for locals making a beeline for their morning fix.
Havana Bar, where you can rub shoulders with musicians and students, is located in a cosy cottage on Wigan St near Wellington’s architecture school. The chilli prawns, teamed with a cold glass of rosé, go down very well.
From there, walk to nearby The Puffin on Ghuznee St and prepare to be seduced by its dark and moody decor and outstanding organic wine selection. There’s no obvious signage so here’s a clue to help you find it – look for the empty bottle of wine on the doorstep with the word Puffin painted on the side. Subtle.
WHERE TO SHOP
Wellington has an understated vibe with a quirky edge. Maybe it’s the civil servant influence, but Wellingtonians have a look that’s not found anywhere else in New Zealand. It’s less about following fashion and more about finding your own style, with a bit of librarian chic and cool geek thrown into the mix.
Wander around Te Aro for a
taste of the capital’s sartorial street style. You’ll also find some of Wellington’s best designer stores here, and – if you look very carefully – some brilliant bars and eateries.
If you fancy adding some Wellington style to your wardrobe visit Twenty-seven Names on Ghuznee St, Kowtow on College St, and Good as Gold on Bond St.
These Wellington-based brands have succeeded in capturing that unique Welly aesthetic and making it a commercial success.
Just as the fashion scene dances to its own rhythm, Wellington interiors are less about trends and more about individualism.
Small Acorns, a fabulous homewares store full of beautiful pieces on the corner of Blair St and Wakefield St, is a good example.
Owner and interior stylist Amanda Holland has an eye for bold colour, pattern and texture. Her flagship store has a loyal following and she recently expanded next door, with the addition of Squirrel cafe.
This is the perfect place for a refuelling pit stop, which more than lives up to its motto: “Simple done well”.
Over on Victoria St, Vessel is another Wellington icon. It’s refreshing to see 1970s-style pottery is still going strong. But Vessel is so much more than that. For those who appreciate the beauty of handcrafted ceramics, this tiny store is packed with precious pieces.
WHERE TO STAY
There are several hotels in the city centre that are easy walking distance from the downtown action. Or a cheap Uber ride if you need to be somewhere quickly. The Sofitel Wellington in Bolton St near the Beehive is one of the most desirable hotel addresses in town.
A study in modern luxury, the pared-back rooms are serene and light-filled, decorated in neutral shades and simple furnishings.
Its restaurant, Jardin Grill, is excellent. Start your day there with a strong coffee (or two) and a breakfast of perfectly cooked eggs. It’s busy in the evening, too, with plenty of people perusing the drinks list of the hotel’s new lobby bar La Serre, which has an emphasis on premium local gins as well as craft beers and fine New Zealand wines.
Another option is the nearby Park Hotel which has a range of room offerings including two and three-bedroom apartments. Take the hotel lift down to its Lambton Quay exit, almost opposite the David Jones department store. Dangerously close!
But that’s Wellington for you. It’s a city centre with a beating heart. And you'll leave part of yours there.