Culture

According to Wikipedia this is a city that has more cafés per capita than New York, so there’s ample close day time locations for lunch on the run or a meeting over a coffee. Some of New Zealand’s finest retail streets and best shops are right outside the hotel on Lambton Quay and around the surrounding blocks, including (for something a little different) the local gem Cuba Street. A range of top restaurants and bars and cafés are all within walking distance, making it almost impossible to choose when you head out with your partner or friends.

For fine dining Hippopotamus is nearby, as is Logan Brown and the iconic Wellington restaurant Boulcott Bistro. Shed 5 takes advantage of its seaside location on Queens Wharf by having its own fishmonger, while the Whitehouse and Martin Bosley enjoy views out over Oriental Bay. Discovering hidden treasures in an unknown city is always fun: try the Library, or Duke Carvell’s Swan Lane Emporium. If you really can’t decide on a bar in Wellington, the Craft Beer capital, you could do a beer trail instead; if you want to experience more food than you have time, there is always a foodie’s tour. For cafes try Fidels, Ciocco coco café (especially if you like chocolate) or take in the Art Gallery and the excellent Nikau Gallery Café at the same time.

The new waterfront development means that the promenade links great new waterfront spaces, while the Queens Wharf to Oriental Bay section also features another cultural experience, the Writers walk; a delicious way to enjoy poetry served up by an award winning typographer and graphic designer, with 19 pieces dotted along the waterfront walk. Linger in Frank Kitts Park and view other sculptures, including Len Lye’s water whirler; or if you are there on a Saturday enjoy the market. The best way to orient yourself is often from the air –treat yourself with a heli-tour, leaving from nearby Queens Wharf.

Also close are the TSB bank arena to see the best shows (World of Wearable Arts is a must see) and the Sky Stadium –to watch the biggest sporting events.