Willis Lane

Wellington’s city streets are constantly humming with life and energy, but for a playful excursion that breaks the norm, you’ll want to head underground.

For below the surface of Willis Street lies Willis Lane, a subterranean dining and entertainment precinct with an almost relentless focus on ensuring you have a great time. A labyrinth of sleek tunnels, exposed brick archways and polished tile floors, you’ll want to spend your first visit here just wandering around and taking it all in. And once you’ve got the lay of the land, the fun can seriously begin. 

One side of Willis Lane is lined with top-notch eateries boasting cuisine from across the globe. Here, you’ll find a mix of household Wellington names - Wilson Barbecue, Hot Like a Mexican and Rick’s Cheese Steaks (yep, the same Rick behind Soul Shack) - as well as ventures from elsewhere in New Zealand, such as Hamilton’s Duck Island and Crack Chicken, the brainchild of Auckland restaurateur David Lee. Eateries bringing flavours from Vietnam, Italy, Malaysia, Japan and further afield round out a truly eclectic bunch of vendors.

Once you’ve filled up on food, it’s time to check out the entertainment options on offer. Put your putting skills to the test on Holey Moley’s highly Instagrammable mini golf course before letting your inner child run riot on the arcade games at Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq. Somehow, there’s also space for tenpin bowling lanes and karaoke rooms. It’s colourful, a bit chaotic, and very, very fun.

A truly all-ages venue, Willis Lane is perhaps the most versatile spot in town. From a quick midweek lunch to a rowdy night of sinking holes and shooting hoops, you’ll find it all at Willis Lane.