Magic at dusk between films
Wellington historian Redmer Yska lifts the lid on his city. Interview by
What does it mean to be a Wellingtonian?
Our darling town is a brainy, vigorous place. Our gales make us ho¯ha¯, so many go inside and create.
I live here because . . .
It’s my home. I was born on Kensington St in Te Aro.
Where is the best place to swim? Princess Bay. I go there over the summer months, and a dip in the Cook Strait is hallucinogenic. Where’s your favourite place to take in some art?
I like the Suite Gallery on Cuba St, especially the vast collection of grainy Ans Westra photos. What’s the best festival in town? The film festival is always a harbinger of spring; you can feel the days lengthening as you walk along Courtenay Place at dusk, between movies. I love that. What is your ideal night out in Wellington?
Little India in Allen St with family. The perfect Saturday morning in the city is . . .
A sunny one on Cuba St, with smells of bacon, coffee and
My Wellington
Locals share their favourite spots patchouli.
My guilty pleasure in the city is to go to ...
Higher Taste for spinach paneer, on Fridays.
What part of the city are you most at home in?
It was the city library, now shuttered. Now like thousands of others, I wait . . .
Not many people know this about Wellington but . . .
The 1848 quake – over eight scary days – was so severe that Mt Victoria was said to be dancing. What is Wellington’s best feature?
The calm after the storm.
What is your greatest hope for this city?
Our young people, who love this place.