12 Hours Wellington

Start the day the right way with a hearty breakfast at Field & Green. Eating at this café takes place in full view of the kitchen, where head chef Laura Greenfield cheerfully practices the skills she honed for discerning Londoners. The brunch menu features classic European dishes that all live up to their motto, European Soul Food. Set just one block from the market end of the waterfront; there’s no excuse not to incorporate a visit here pre or post-a weekend wander.

Down the side of an industrial building on Jessie Street, a warm glow emanates from a glass shopfront. It’s a tempting little rabbit hole, one that leads you to a wonderland of carefully curated books. GOOD BOOKS is a fiercely independent bookshop that exudes Wellington vibes through and through. The brainchild of local authors Jane Arthur and Catherine Robertson, it’s truly a store created for bibliophiles, by bibliophiles. Spend a while browsing and skimming the extensive range of books and don't be surprised if you walk away with a few. 

Expect a slightly heavier bag courtesy of the many goodies found on Ghuznee Street. Now is the time for shopping the garments at Caughley and Kau Kau. Caughley is a carefully curated edit of luxury international brands and emerging New Zealand designers. Kaukau are the purveyors of local and international homewares, jewellery and fashion. A coffee pit stop comes courtesy of Customs. Perfect. 

End the morning in Wellington’s coolest precinct, the Hannah Factory Laneway, just off Dixon Street. There’s been a rejuvenation of this once-forgotten part of town thanks to the arrival of small artisan food producers and hospitality heroes. Check out and sample goods from Wellington Chocolate Factory before heading to lunch. 

For a lunch with laid back charm stop in at Highwater Eatery. Interesting fact: the restaurant sits right where the water level used to be on Cuba Street in the early days. No longer underwater, this eatery and wine bar combines its efforts of sustainability with celebrating the good times - meaning you can eat and drink and have a great time with the knowledge that you’re supporting the use of local produce, ethically raised meat and an organically focussed wine list. Win win. 

Undoubtedly one of the most iconic streets in New Zealand. Cuba Street has a palpable energy. The heartbeat of the city if you will. Visit the likes of Wellington Apothecary, Iko Iko, Duck Island Ice Cream while you take a stroll around. Take a turn down Left Bank Lane and check out Enjoy Gallery and Pegasus Books (if one book shop isn't enough for you today).  

By now, you’re likely feeling a little parched. Welly will do that to you. Take a late afternoon saunter along to Little Beer Quarter. Choose from a fine selection of craft beers on tap, and over 100 bottles of beer from New Zealand and around the globe. This inner-city pub truly is a gem. 

Following that libation, why not head to the capital’s waterfront and check out Wellington’s excellent City Gallery. Established in 1980, it’s the country’s most significant non-collecting gallery and features an ever-changing line up of exhibitions of contemporary art.

In a town mad about hospitality, Wellington makes it pretty damn difficult to decide where to head for dinner. We’ll make it easy for you. Go to Scopa situated in the heart of Cuba Street. Hailed as the original pizzeria, Scopa will deliver the goods. Whether you’re in need of hearty food or a spot to impress, here you can satisfy your cravings and crushes alike.  Settle in and soak up the hustle and bustle of the most diverse street in Wellington.

Puffin is an extravagant speak-easy style wine bar and the perfect setting to converse about the days’ adventures with your favourite people. Slip into a plush velvet booth and while the rest of the night away over a selection of natural and organic vino (or a classic cocktail or beer if you so wish). Oh – and say hi to that cheeky taxidermy peacock for us.