Eat, Play, Explore: A Family Weekend in Wellington’s Courtenay Precinct
Words by: Katherine Dewar
Photos by: Anna Briggs
Courtenay Precinct might be well-known as Wellington’s go-to for nightlife, but it’s also packed with plenty of family-friendly fun.
With its mix of food, entertainment, and outdoor activities, there’s no shortage of things to do. Here’s how to spend a fun-filled family weekend in and around Wellington’s bustling Courtenay Precinct.
Have a Yum Cha Feast
Start your weekend with a leisurely yum cha at one of the many iconic spots nearby. Dragons is always buzzing with families, dishing out shared plates of steaming dim sum and plenty of tea to go around. Or head over to Grand Century, where the Tai family has been serving up Cantonese classics since 2003. For a more tucked-away experience, Aries Restaurant has an impressively extensive menu full of crowd-pleasers – and, like all good Chinese restaurants, complete with massive fish tanks that’ll keep the little ones entertained. Wherever you go, you’re in for a yum cha feast that’s perfect for a family brunch or lunch.
Explore an Exhibition
Make Tākina your next stop for some family fun. From dinosaurs to superheroes, Tākina regularly hosts international exhibitions that captivate kids and adults alike – and their current exhibition, Doctor Who: Worlds of Wonder, offers a chance to interact with Daleks, explore a TARDIS-themed photobooth and more. Afterwards, pop into Zephyr Café (located inside Tākina) for a coffee or fresh, locally-inspired snack, perfect for refuelling before heading back out again.
Catch a Show
Settle in for a family-friendly show at St James Theatre or Embassy Cinema. St James, known for its grandeur and variety, always has a range of performances that appeal to families, from international acts to lively school holiday shows. Or if movies are more your speed, the iconic Embassy Cinema just down the road is known for its old-school movie experience, screening everything from blockbusters and indie gems to New Zealand-made features.
Get Your Game On
For a little lively competition, head to Timezone for a mix of classic arcade games, racing simulators, and VR fun. Whether you're grabbing claw machine prizes or smashing some drums, it's a good, goofy time for all ages. Feeling competitive? Challenge each other to a round of bowling at The Lanes, or for something a little different, try a spooky round of mini-golf at The Witching Hour – where moving mist, glowing props and haunted animatronics make it a fun, interactive way to spend an afternoon.
Cityside Picnic Spots
If you're in the mood for some outdoor relaxation, the Courtenay Precinct is surrounded by beautiful green spaces. Grab a coffee and a bite to take away from Squirrel or Glou Glou, then have yourself a picnic at nearby Waitangi Park or enjoy the seaside views along Oriental Bay. Feeling adventurous? A short hike up Mount Victoria will lead you to some of the best panoramic views of the city – perfect for a family photo to remember the day.
Photo by: WellingtonNZ
More Wellington Stories
48 Hours Hutt Valley
Just across the harbour from Wellington city lies the Hutt Valley, an underrated and outdoorsy destination offering popular eateries and a happening cultural scene.
Spending 48 hours in the Hutt Valley has never been so easy (in fact, you’ll likely be pressed for time!) as the sister cities of Upper Hutt and Lower Hutt continue to grow and offer an abundance of things to do.
There are picturesque parks and walking trails, bountiful shopping, arts scenes and an array of culinary delights; this guide is designed to help you make the most of two days spent immersed in this vibrant community.
Take a seat: Your guide to dining solo in Wellington
Looking to treat yourself to a meal away from home? Here are the best places to dine if you're alone in Wellington.
The Class of '25: Wellington's Best Openings
If there’s one thing 2025 has taught us, it’s that while times will change, Wellington will always be one of New Zealand’s leading culinary hubs.
Loaves to Love
Neat Wellington Places
Dragonfly
Dragonfly is a hidden oasis within Wellington’s Courtenay Place, lively yet intimate, this modern Asian venue has cultivated an unrivalled atmosphere and service in...
Ascot
Hotdogs and wine might seem like an unlikely combination, but at The Ascot, no one’s going to judge you holding a glass of wine in one hand and a saucy dog in the other.
Kilim Petone
A revered name in Wellington’s Turkish scene, Kilim is synonymous with quality, hearty kebabs done well, with its reputation extending far beyond the Hutt Valley.
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.
Shelly Bay Baker on Karori Road
Having long been a household name in Wellington, the opening of Shelly Bay Baker’s Karori branch means New Zealand’s largest suburb now has easy access to some...
