Wellington: A Dream Getaway To-Do List

On the first day of any holiday, I like to relax into my time off and explore the lay of the land. I would start off exploring Cuba Street, which is filled with vintage shops and quirky trinket stores galore. Cuba Street is home to the famous Bucket Fountain, Pegasus Books, Iko Iko and much, much more.

Break up the shopping with a chai latte from Midnight Espresso. Midnight Espresso is an iconic spot in Wellington, known for its eclectic décor and late night operational hours. This café sums up Wellingtons quirky style with walls adorned with posters, a retro pinball machine and vintage furniture that ties the whole place together. This café is highly rated for its food and drink, with a vibe, unlike any other café I have ever seen.

When evening arrives, head to the Witching Hour Mini-Putt and Bar for a fun (and spooky!) late-night activity. I would recommend going after 6pm, as this is exclusively adults-only hour. With alcohol available, you can enjoy a chilled beverage as you play. Enjoy the spooky decorations, ominous lighting and fog machines.

If you are keen for a day-trip away from the city, hop in the car and head to Upper Hut. At the top of my list is Brewtown. This is the go-to spot for beer lovers, filled with a bunch of different craft breweries to try. Although Brewtown is most renowned for its beer, I would be lying if I said that this is the drawcard for me. I am more intrigued by the entertainment activities on offer, which would make for a fun day out with your friend or partner. Try your hand at ice skating, Ten Pin Bowling, paintball, indoor go karting and so much more. The options are endless!

Make the most of a sunny day in Wellington by getting out and about in nature. If you have some energy to burn, tie up your walking shoes, shimmy into your exercise gear and hit the Pinnacles Track. The Pinnacles Track is located in Aoragni Forest Park, with numerous tracks depending on your ability level and time on hand. The Pinnacles Track itself is 1.5km one way, estimated to take about 45 minutes. This is the easiest option, which is perfect for those who aren’t at their peak fitness levels (i.e. me). If you are looking for a slightly more challenging trek, try the Ridge Walk Track. This is a steeper variation, which is 1.5km in length and should take 45 minutes as well.

After you’ve completed your hike, reward yourself with a tasty treat. In Te Aro, you will find The Enormous Crocodile & Shake Bar. This is the place to go if you want to try an insta-worthy crocshake. Check out their Instagram for a look at their incredible creations! Choose from mouth-watering flavours such as Nutella, Cookies and Cream, Caramel or Raspberry White Chocolate. They also do a flavour of the month if you want to try something different.

Welcome to Day 4! I couldn’t write up my dream weekend in Wellington without including Te Papa. Te Papa Museum is a fun, free activity for the whole family. Featuring incredible exhibits that will leave you gobsmacked! Have your mind blown by the Gallipoli exhibit, with incredibly lifelike models of soldiers fighting in World War I. There is so much to see at this museum, making it a great way to pass time during the day.

Once afternoon hits, pack a picnic and trek up to the top of Mount Victoria. The views from the top are incredible and it is another free activity that is well worth doing. Go to a local supermarket and pick yourself up some tasty treats to enjoy in the sun. Just make sure you are rugged up in your winter woolies, as it is likely to get pretty windy up there!

If you are an animal lover, I would totally recommend heading to Wellington Zoo! This is a great all-day activity, with a whole bunch of exotic animals to check out. Observe the Penguins, Tigers, Kangaroos, Meerkats, Chimpanzees and much more. Wellington Zoo even offers Close Encounters, which is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The Close Encounters provide you with an opportunity to get up close and personal with your favourite zoo animal! Choose from a Red Panda, Meerkat, Giraffe, Lemur or Capybara. If you are bringing young kids with you, there are also playgrounds located around the park so your little ones can let off some steam.

On Day 6, relax and enjoy Wellingtons awesome cocktail bars and food options. Before leaving, we highly recommend going to Hannah’s Laneway. This is the go-to place for foodies to experience a wide range of different cuisines. Start with Fix and Fogg, which is an adorable little peanut butter store with peanut butter tastings, toast and porridge. Visit Leeds Street Bakery and experience their famous salted caramel cookie. Don’t forget to pop into the Wellington Chocolate Factory and taste some decadent chocolatey goodness.

If you want to delve into Wellingtons fun bar scene, The Library is a favourite amongst the locals and well worth a visit. If you are able to visit on a Wednesday, you’ll be lucky enough to receive two-for-one cocktails! This quirky little bar also has board games available to play as you enjoy a cheeky beverage or two.

If you are looking to go to a slightly classier joint, the Naumi Studio Hotel is for you. Check out the Lola Rouge Bar and The Parlour and make sure to take some photos! The décor is to die for and unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. The most appropriate word to describe this place is grand and upper class, so dress nicely!

It is Day 7 and we have come to the end of our Wellington adventure. Treat this day as a wildcard and fill it with whatever you want! Whether that be a trip to Oriental Bay, Weta Workshop, Wellington Botanic Gardens, the Cable Car or Zealandia Ecosanctuary. Whatever you choose, I am sure you will have a great time! In Wellington, how can you not?

Thanks for coming along with me on this Wellington trip! If you need any gear for the journey, head over to luggage.co.nz and browse our wide range of luggage and travel-related products.