Good as Gold’s Raag Ponnuchetty’s Guide to Te Ngākau Civic Precinct, Wellington

Celia has a heart of gold. Whenever I see her, I’m greeted with a smile and a warm hello. Vessel has an amazing range of curated ceramics and home goods, from local all-stars to overseas makers. I love the Paul Melser, Louis Kittleson and Muskane bits she has! Celia has a real eye for detail. I bet she’s got a rad house with all the coolest home goods.

Fisherman's Plate Seafood has the best pho in the city! I’ve consistently gone there for the last 7 years, and they’ve never let me down. They’re absolute legends, and I would go as far as to say they're a pillar of this community. It’s good for any day, whether sauteed beef and spring rolls on a warm day or a hot noodle soup dish to warm the soul on a cold one. My favourites are the rare beef pho or laksa. Extra fresh chilli in the mix is a must.

Aurora Argentinian Bakery is a new addition to the neighbourhood. In such a short amount of time, they’ve created a loyal and cool community in the area—it's a testament to the delicious food they make and the incredible people they are. My favourites are the ham and cheese medialuna and beef empanada.

Tait, one of the owners of Swimsuit, has been slinging me coffees here for the last seven years. It started back when he was working at Lamasons. It's this crazy full-circle moment seeing him own his own place with local legend Willy, in the same spot that he started. My classic combo is a dirty chai with the pain au chocolat toasted. It must be toasted.

We’ve had heaps of GAG staff dinners here. Clay, the owner, is awesome and always a rad host. Clay has shopped with us a bunch throughout the years—he loves New Balance, so he comes to the right place. I love the seafood. The oysters are a must whenever you go. Gochujang Chicken, Cabbage and Black Fungus potstickers are also all amazing.

Tatsushi on Edward Street is another place I go to frequently. It’s been in the neighbourhood for 12 years. Hand-picked fresh fish from the fish market daily, homemade tofu, seasonal ingredients, life doesn't get any better than a lunch or dinner at Tatsushi. It's the GAG office crew's classic lunch spot on a Friday. I’ve tried pretty much everything on the menu, but I always get katsu curry and agadashi tofu with extra togarashi on the side.

Stacey and the crew at LBQ are really lovely. It's a hot spot for the community and always packed with people relaxing after the workday. We’ve had many $15 lunch deals throughout our time there, and the Old Red Eyes pizza is SO GOOD.

Queen Beauty Salon on Bond Street is a very fitting business name as the owner, Kim, is an absolute queen. The crew that works there is so lovely and amazing at what they do and they have always supported us. I haven’t personally had the pleasure of getting my nails done, but other crew members at GAG recommend BIAB and getting some nail art done by Ivy.

That Was Then, This Is Now is such a rad spot. It was awesome when they joined the neighbourhood. Lombard Lane used to be pretty grim, but they’ve now made it a destination shopping venue. They sell premium menswear and also do haircuts. The clothing is utilitarian/workwear inspired and engineered for the modern time. They have a cool brand list. I remember seeing Samurai Jeans in Japan and never would I have thought that they’d have an official stockist here in Wellington.

Meow is also a certified pillar of this community. Damian and Rahine are LEGENDS; they’ve supported us so much throughout the years to the point I kinda know what Damian will be into in the shop, almost like a coffee order. We’ve had heaps of GAG parties there and I've had some of my favourite Wellington night out memories. Whether it’s slam poetry, stand-up comedy or awesome musical artists, Meow has got you for a good time.