Volkswagen’s Little Legends: Philippa, Pick a Posy
The Volkswagen Polo is returning to New Zealand, so we’re teaming up with the Volkswagen Polo to meet some little legends of our own: the people behind the places that make Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch special. We handed each of them the keys and asked for their favourite spots.
I’m Philippa, owner and florist at Pick a Posy in Newtown. I’ve been running the business since 2014, although its history goes back much further than me. It was originally established in 1952 as Scheherazade Florist, so there’s a lot of history behind our little flower shop!
I got into floristry because I’ve always loved being creative and working with my hands. What I love most is seeing the seasons change through the flowers. There’s always something new to get excited about. I also genuinely love owning a business, from coming up with ideas to making decisions and thinking about what we could do next. I feel really lucky that I get to combine the creative side with the business side.
Wellington feels like a city and a little village at the same time. You can be right in the middle of town, then 10 minutes later you’re at the beach, walking through the bush or standing on a hill with an amazing view.
Getting around in the Volkswagen Polo was a treat. It was so smooth to drive and really fun zipping through town.
These are some of my favourite spots in Pōneke.
Stand a chance to win a luxury weekend getaway in Auckland with the Volkswagen Polo by nominating your favourite local legend via the Little Legend Hub.
Newday Coffee
We’re so lucky to have such cool neighbours! These guys are a great local café just a few doors down from us, which is pretty ideal. They have yummy food, great coffee and such a wonderful team. Popping in there has become a regular part of our workday.
Margot
163 Riddiford Street, entrance via Wilson St, Newtown, Wellington
I was so happy when I discovered Margot. It’s the sweetest little restaurant tucked away down a little street in Newtown, with the yummiest food and such great service. It feels cosy and special, and it’s one of those places I’m always excited to go back to.
Embody Saunas
Embody Saunas in Petone is one of my favourite ways to relax and unwind. There’s something so nice about switching off for a while and having that time to yourself. I always sleep so well afterwards too, so it’s become a bit of a weekend treat.
Wrights Hill Fortress
I only found out about Wrights Hill Fortress as an adult and couldn’t believe I’d lived in Wellington for so long without knowing it was there! It’s such an interesting place to explore and learn more about the city’s history. Walking through the old tunnels and imagining what it would have been like at the time feels really special. It’s a real hidden gem!
Small Acorns
This is such a beautiful shop - it’s one of my favourites to wander through. Everything feels really thoughtfully chosen and displayed, and there’s always something gorgeous that catches my eye. As someone who loves flowers, colour and beautiful things, it’s definitely my kind of place.
Mediterranean Foods
Another nearby Newtown favourite of mine. The food is amazing, especially their wood-fired pizzas, and I can never resist having a look through the grocery selection while I’m there too. They actually make me excited to go home and cook.
Moore Wilson’s
Corner of Tory Street and, College St, Te Aro, Wellington
A Wellington institution! I absolutely love having a wander around. I can go in for one thing and somehow come out with a trolley full. The fresh produce, local products and interesting ingredients always pull me in, and there’s usually something new to treat myself to.
In Motion Studio
In Motion Studio in Lower Hutt is another favourite of mine. I love their Pilates classes because the space feels so welcoming and relaxed. It’s a really nice way to take a bit of time for myself while still doing something good for my body!
Oriental Bay
I love going for a walk around Oriental Bay in the evening, especially at the end of a sunny summer day. You’ve got the harbour, the hills and the city all around you. It really shows off how beautiful Wellington is. It’s one of those places that makes me think: yep, this is why I love living here!
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