Art, Design & Inspiring Finds Within Wellington’s Te Ngākau Civic Precinct

A vibrant art dealership that represents New Zealand heavyweights alongside the next generation of contemporary artists, Page Galleries is a must-visit for any serious art connoisseur in Wellington. Housing some of the finest pieces in the country, the gallery is suitably based within an iconic modernist building designed in 1958 by architect Stanley Fearn. If it looks familiar, you might recognise it from a car chase scene from the classic Kiwi hit film Goodbye Pork Pie.

It might be hidden away in a discreet laneway, but Meow certainly isn’t shy about making some noise. Indeed, this beloved Wellington gig venue will have you purring as you dance the night away to fantastic live music from acts both big and small, from near and far. Add a solid craft beer range to the mix and you have the recipe for a good night out.

This cute ceramic store has been around - proudly in the same spot on Victoria Street - for more than 20 years. And aren’t we glad that Vessel has stood the test of time. When you think about it, attractive, high-quality ceramic pieces are a timeless addition to any home, and here you can pick out some of the finest handcrafted bowls, plates, mugs and other homewares.

That Was Then, This Is Now set out to be the complete shop for the modern Wellingtonian man. And by combining a comprehensive range of quality menswear with a premium in-house barbershop, it really is a one-stop shop. Explore the curated lineup of sought-after international brands, pick out a new statement piece for your wardrobe and finish up with a fresh fade to complete the look.

Operating out of a joint studio on the fifth floor of Anvil House, these two brands share an ethos of good design, sustainability and a respect for nature. JPalm is a slow fashion brand by designer and maker Julia Palm.

The JPalm design language has evolved to incorporate subtle nods to sportswear, uniforms, and workwear - adding a contemporary and utilitarian essence to its dynamic and ever-evolving aesthetic. Rooted in rebellious origins, the JPalm brand embraces its punk culture influences yet blends personalised craftsmanship and collaborative expertise.

Cold Wave is a small-scale wetsuit project by Ted Whitaker that builds on a classic design yet exaggerates the form and function by using speciality smooth-skin neoprene—a glossy type of wetsuit fabric not commonly accessible in Aotearoa. Ted treats the project as a playful vehicle to explore the cultural landscape of surfing.Book a studio visit at their Wakefield Street workroom, where a selection of stock is available to try on. You will also have a chance to meet with the designers in a personalised workroom session.

Steeped in local history, The Village Goldsmith isn’t just any jewellery store, and many Wellingtonian couples’ engagement story begins with a sparkle from this luxurious Victoria Street studio. Complementing the beautifully ornate showroom is the on-site workshop where you can catch a glimpse of the team of nine jewellers, hard at work crafting pieces to last a lifetime. Whether it’s an engagement ring or a stunning pendant you’re after, you’ll find your perfect match here.

With an expansive range of games to choose from and an abundance of coffee, this is a safe little space for board game nerds, caffeine addicts and everyone in between, young and old. Peruse the teeming shelves stacked with games, models and other novelties to keep you occupied, and tuck into a hot beverage as you while the hours away. The perfect place to hunker down on a cold rainy day.

A mainstay of the New Zealand fashion scene, WORLD’s Wellington store is a fantastic place to let your imagination run wild while indulging in a bit of retail therapy. The colourful fitout is a nod to the bold, creative garments you’ll encounter within - many Wellingtonians have picked out their favourite statement piece from within these walls. A range of high-end perfumes, candles and neat little gifts rounds out this fabulous shopping experience.w

Undoubtedly one of the most popular homeware stores in the capital, virtually every product at The Axe is a standout item. Showcasing its meticulous attention to detail, the shop is a true delight to navigate, resembling something closer to a friend’s living room than a retail environment. Try out the beautiful, comfy sofas and browse the walls of fresh and funky artwork, accessories and homeware.

With sparse white walls and an exposed concrete ceiling, this gallery can feel a little industrial at first glance. But the utilitarian fitout only serves to accentuate the beautiful works occupying their own special little section of the space. With a busy lineup of exhibitions, this is a great place to come and admire the latest contemporary art.