The Best Independent Bookshops in New Zealand (2026)
Bibliophiles, gather round. This Saturday 10 October is Aotearoa New Zealand Bookshop Day, when independent bookshops across the motu celebrate with author signings, kids’ activities, bookshop crawls and more. While you’re there, pick up this year’s limited-edition tote bag featuring artwork by Coco Solid.
Each of these fiercely independent bookstores brings a strong sense of personality, shaped by the culture and history of the towns they call home. From Auckland to Alexandra, from mystical fantasy to heartfelt memoirs, here’s where to get your literature fix across Aotearoa, on Bookshop Day and every other day of the year.
Things to Do with Kids in Porirua (2026)
From lagoon splash pads and treetop adventures to museums, wave pools and sweet treats, here are our top picks for a family day out in Porirua.
The Best Pizza in Wellington: 7 Spots to Try (2026)
From the tried and tested classics to more contemporary twists, there are plenty of fantastic pizzas to be found around Wellington.
The Best Cheap Eats in Wellington (2026)
Noodles, burgers, pasta and more - here are some of our top picks in Wellington for a meal that won’t blow your budget.
The Best Barbers & Hairdressers in Wellington (2026)
When it comes to looking your best, it helps to have a hairdresser you can trust. With so many options in the capital you might be overwhelmed by choice, so here is your guide to some of Wellington’s top hair professionals.
The Best Brunch in Wellington: 8 Cafés to Try (2026)
The Best Op Shops & Vintage Stores in Wellington (2026)
Nothing beats the thrill of stumbling across something special on the racks (the best finds are rewarded after a good scavenge) and Wellington is the place to be when hunting for vintage bargains.
Meet the Makers of Lyall Bay
Maybe it’s the impressive beachside backdrop that acts as inspiration, but Lyall Bay is fast growing into a thriving creators’ hub.
One of the Locals: An Insider's Guide to the Hutt Valley
The Hutt Valley: severely underestimated, often misunderstood, and full of surprises for every type of visitor.
Meet Christopher Menges, Master Swordsmith at Wētā Workshop
Behind the fascinating characters, costumes and props that make Wētā Workshop Experiences one of Wellington’s most unique attractions, there’s a team of supremely talented creators who bring it all to life. One of these individuals is master swordsmith Christopher Menges, who has been handling swords since he was a kid and has forged a reputation as one of the country’s finest craftsmen. We asked Christopher about what drives his creative process and what life is like at Wētā Workshop.
Cosy Corners, Filling Foods and Winter Warmers around Wellington
One of a Kind Experiences in the Hutt Valley
The Lyall Bay Day Plan
The pride of Wellington’s south coast, Lyall Bay is the kind of easygoing seaside spot that can turn a simple day out into something of a mini holiday.
With the roaring, frothy ocean as an impressive backdrop, the neighbourhood blends surf culture, creative retail, great food, and a few surprises along the way. Whether you’re here to catch the waves, the coffee, or just a leisurely wander between local spots, Lyall Bay is best done at a slow pace.
Here’s how to spend a full day soaking up one of Wellington’s most charismatic beach suburbs.
Where to Eat in Lyall Bay Wellington
If there’s one thing that can make a lively beach suburb even better, it’s a stellar selection of restaurants, bars, and cafes.
A Taste Trail Through Wellington's Courtenay Precinct
Wellington’s food scene moves lightning-quick, yet the Courtenay Place dining precinct is one that typifies endurance. From a handful of neighbouring streets, a few iconic establishments have outlasted economic downturns, pandemic lockdowns and shifting tastes, cementing themselves as much a part of the city as the wind. But how would one best go about visiting some of these legends of the scene?
A Guide to Calm & Wellness in the Heart of Wellington
City Icons: 10 Long-Standing Eateries in the Heart of Courtenay Precinct
In the heart of the Courtenay Precinct sits a cluster of long-standing eateries that have helped shape the flavour (literally) of Wellington’s food scene and central cultural identity. Decades in, these icons continue to anchor the precinct with good stories, honest hospitality, and the kind of dishes locals return for again and again.
The Class of '25: Wellington's Best Openings
ICYMI: New and Neat Openings Across Aotearoa
One of a Kind Finds: Te Ngākau Precinct
Art galleries, boutique shops, jewellers, and more, there are plenty of places in the Te Ngākau precinct where you can nab a one-of-a-kind find.
Te Ngākau Precinct After Dark
Whether you're in search of a refined glass of wine, a fresh sashimi platter, or a cosy booth with an ale and live music, the Te Ngākau precinct is the place to hit once the sun sets.
Dine Around the World in Central Wellington
Not only is central Wellington an incredibly walkable place, it’s also home to some outstanding eateries with dishes hailing from across the globe.
City of Makers: Inside Wellington's Creative Culture
Key Ingredients to Wellington Hospitality with Cosmo
The Ultimate Wellington Coffee & Treat Trail
Rediscovering Thorndon Quay: Where History Meets Modern Design
Tucked away but not to be overlooked, Thorndon Quay is a place worth wandering. Steeped in history and creativity, this corridor of the capital city boasts a unique blend of old and new – with a rich mix of contemporary design, heritage buildings, cosy eateries and eclectic boutiques ready to welcome you in.
The Heart of Thorndon Quay: Four Traders Who Have Stood the Test of Time
A walk down Thorndon Quay is a quick reminder of the strength, resilience and creativity of Wellington’s business community. Even as challenges have reshaped the area, a collection of beloved local businesses remain as an enduring anchor of the community. From handcrafted furniture and authentic French cuisine to vibrant textiles and personalised hairstyling, these enduring traders reflect the heart of the Quay – inviting visitors to explore, enjoy, and support the places that have long been part of its fabric.
Courtenay Creatives: The Best of Art, Style and Design in Wellington’s Courtenay Precinct
From tucked-away galleries to quirky boutiques, Wellington’s Courtenay Precinct is brimming with creativity. Whether you’re looking for original artwork, vintage oddities, or avant-garde fashion, there’s plenty to explore in this rich part of the capital city.
A Guide to Asian Cuisine in Wellington’s Courtenay Precinct
The Courtenay Precinct is Wellington’s premier place to play, packed with hundreds of businesses, theatres and hidden treasures – and it’s also home to some of the city’s best Asian cuisine. From bustling hotspots to hidden gems, here’s our guide to the rich selection of Asian cuisine in the Courtenay Precinct.
Dinner and a Show: Where to Eat, Drink, and Be Entertained in Wellington’s Courtenay Precinct
One of a Kind Finds in Porirua
Shopping is one of the best ways to explore a city, and by sifting through Porirua’s many unique local businesses, you’ll uncover a true melting pot of cultures.
Dine Around the World in Porirua
Porirua isn’t just spectacular coastal views and chilled out beaches - it’s also home to a surprisingly diverse range of eateries.
Eat, Play, Explore: A Family Weekend in Wellington’s Courtenay Precinct
Dinner, Dessert & Dancing: An After-Dark Guide to Wellington’s Courtenay Precinct
When the sun goes down, Courtenay Precinct lights up. Whether you're after a bite to eat, a round of drinks, or a night of dancing with friends, this is where Wellington goes to let their hair down. Here’s our guide to making the most of the Courtenay Precinct after dark.
The Wardrobe of Wellington: 17 Fashion Stores in Te Ngākau Civic Precinct
Wellington dresses as well as it brews coffee. It should come as no surprise then, that the city’s bustling roads and hidden laneways are abundant in fashion-forward shopping destinations.
Discover Te Ngākau: A Day in Wellington’s Civic Precinct
From cafes and bistros to a surprising abundance of art galleries, here are some of the best places to stop by during a day trip to Wellington's Te Ngākau Civic Precinct.
Good as Gold’s Raag Ponnuchetty’s Guide to Te Ngākau Civic Precinct, Wellington
Art, Design & Inspiring Finds Within Wellington’s Te Ngākau Civic Precinct
From art galleries to game shops and a clothing store with its own in-house barber, there’s plenty of arts, design and other inspiring finds to explore in Wellington's Te Ngākau Civic Precinct.
Eat Your Heart Out: Culinary Delights in Wellington's Te Ngākau Civic Precinct
Here are the best places to eat in and around Te Ngākau Civic Precinct, the heart of Wellington city.
Meet Five Shopkeepers from Wellington's Te Ngākau Civic Precinct
From beauty salons to clothing stores and ceramic shops to jewellers, these are the people running the Te Ngākau Civic Precinct’s businesses.
Brewing Dreams: Hannah & Andrew Childs of Churly’s CBD
Nestled in the heart of Wellington, Churly’s CBD is the latest venture from Andrew and Hannah Childs – the dynamic duo behind Behemoth Brewing. Andrew, a public servant turned award-winning brewer, and Hannah, a trained chef, butcher and culinary talent, have combined their passions to create a space where exceptional beer meets exquisite charcuterie.
Beers, Bites, and Bowling: A Guide to Upper Hutt’s Brewtown
10 Trails in the Hutt Valley and Where to Treat Yourself After
Nestled within the lush, rolling landscapes that make up the lower North Island, Hutt Valley offers an expansive network of interesting walks appealing to both seasoned hikers and casual strollers alike. Whether you’re after a leisurely meander or a more challenging multi-hour ‘slog’, Hutt Valley trails offer a variety of native bush landscapes and panoramic vistas, meaning there really is something for everyone. Fortunately, the adventure doesn’t have to end with the last step of the walk; Hutt Valley also offers a yummy selection of culinary spots to reward the tired explorer. Our guide below unveils ten of the best walks in Hutt Valley and our suggestion of the perfect places to treat yourself afterwards.
Lower Hutt
How to Spend a Day in Petone, Lower Hutt
48 Hours Hutt Valley
Your Insider's Guide to Eastbourne and Days Bay
Just across the harbour from Wellington are the charming seaside villages of Eastbourne and Days Bay. Their tranquillity and natural assets certainly make both coastal spots popular destinations for sunny-day excursions, and the community feel of the local businesses not only binds the residents but also keeps visitors coming back for more.
Upper Hutt
Upper Hutt can perhaps be best described as a harmonious juxtaposition. While much of it can have a gritty, industrial feel, largely due to its history, it’s also a real breath of fresh air and home to some of the best natural places to explore in the country. The city has embraced both of these qualities over the years to turn itself into an immensely popular place to visit.
From the sprawling Kaitoke Regional Park, with its swimming holes, walking tracks, and its own little slice of Middle Earth, to the ever-popular Staglands Wildlife Reserve, there are plenty of spots to explore for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Venture towards the heart of the city centre and you’ll encounter Brewtown, a beer craft connoisseur and foodie’s paradise that also doubles as an entertainment hub.
Sprinkled elsewhere throughout the city you’ll find art galleries, cosy cafes, and all manner of eateries from chicken shops to sandwich bars to keep you nourished.
A Beaches, Brews and Views Guide to Kāpiti Coast
Lydia Harfield of Apostle Hot Sauce - Her Guide to Kāpiti Coast
Meet Kāpiti Coast local Lydia Harfield. She runs Apostle Hot Sauce with her partner Mat; they make a range of noteworthy small-batch chilli-based condiments. Lydia also works as a graphic designer for One & Only Agency, a Kāpiti-based design agency. Here are her picks of the best places to experience on Kāpiti Coast.
48 Hours Kāpiti Coast
Best Summer Day Trips from Wellington
Got nothing planned for the weekend? There are plenty of options for an impromptu day trip from Wellington - here are some of the best.
The Best Vegan-friendly Spots in Wellington
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or keen to dip your toes in this culinary world, Wellington is the place to be.
Chasing the sun: Where to Dine Al Fresco in Wellington
Neat in the Neighbourhood: Brooklyn
It might not quite be as big as its New York namesake, but Wellington’s Brooklyn is a charming part of town set against plenty of greenery.
12 Hours Underground at Willis Lane
Taste of Tokyo: The Best Japanese Restaurants in Wellington
Fresh, fast, and always filled with flavour, Japanese cuisine is a winner for any occasion.
Love, Legacy and Tacos: The Story of Wellington’s Best Mexican Food
Andrés Pimentel, the man behind Willis Lane’s ‘Hot Like A Mexican’, transformed his life from veteran hairdresser to outstanding chef - crafting a culinary tale as rich and vibrant as his menu.
Neat in the Neighbourhood: Newtown
Rincones Sabrosos: The Best Latin American Restaurants in Wellington
Curry Capital: The Best Indian Eats in Wellington
New Zealand’s Top Hotels For Unforgettable Staycations
Forget the stale hotel stereotypes; New Zealand's staycation scene is flourishing with bold character and unrivalled charm.
In the Kitchen with David Lee: The Man Behind New Zealand’s Top Eateries
In the heart of Wellington's new lively dining and entertainment district, Willis Lane, is the latest masterpiece from award-winning restauranter David Lee (of Aigo, Pōni, Candyshop and Gochu fame): a humble, softly-spoken man responsible for shaping Auckland's dining scene. Let us introduce you to his newest venture: Crack Chicken.
For the Sweet Tooths: Where to Dessert in Wellington
For those times when you just need to finish with something sweet, Wellington has got you covered.
The Best Places to Eat on Cuba Street, Wellington
Here is our definitive list of the best places to eat on Wellington’s most iconic street.
Take a seat: Your guide to dining solo in Wellington
Best Winter Day Trips from Wellington
There’s more to a Wellington winter than staying wrapped up at home with Netflix and the heat pump on. Escape the winter blues with one of these easily accessible, fun-filled day trips from Wellington.
Glow On: Discovering Wellington's Best Facials and Body Treatments
You deserve a break! Relax and recharge with our list of the best salons and day spas around Wellington.
The People Behind the Places: Meet the Food & Drink Heroes of Kāpiti Coast
While Kāpiti Coast might be more commonly associated with a holiday destination where the classic fish 'n’ chips on the beach scenario is a fit-for-purpose culinary experience, scratch the surface, and you’ll find the region brimming with food and drink locations that will have you toss away the thought of eating off paper.
Beach Boutiques & Village Vibes of Raumati and Paraparaumu Beach
Take a leisurely stroll around the neat boutiques of Raumati and Paraparaumu Beaches.
Paraparaumu
The beating heart of Kāpiti Coast, Paraparaumu, is the unofficial capital of the region. Everything you might need can be found here, from essentials such as banks, supermarkets and cinemas, to back alley breweries, local roasters and authentic dining experiences. True to the nature of the coast, there are also plenty of walks, bike tracks and other outdoor activities to keep visitors entertained.
Paraparaumu Beach is home to a number of quality boutiques, specialty plant stores and destination restaurants. The heart of the village sits right on the seaside, and walking along the streets, you can feel the salt in the air and catch glimpses of the glistening ocean with the silhouette of Kāpiti Island in the distance. Paraparaumu is also the launching spot for tours to Kāpiti Island, one of Aotearoa’s oldest nature reserves.
Paekākāriki
Nestled between the ocean and the hills, Paekākāriki is the southernmost township of the Kāpiti Coast. The offerings of this quaint village are dotted along its main street, aptly named Beach Road. As one end of the popular Escarpment Track, plus a variety of other tracks of various lengths, the village bustles with walkers during the weekends throughout the year, and over the summer months, it attracts herds of beach holidaymakers.
The locals of this tiny town are a creative bunch, and if you happen to visit when the monthly market is on, you’ll get to glance at a variety of products and produce from the area. Another way to appreciate its inhabitants is to take the Paekākāriki Arts Walk, which showcases poetry and visual arts by the people who call this special spot home.
Raumati
Raumati is the Te Reo Māori word for summer, and this is a town that truly shines in the sunshine. The beach, while not directly in view from the village centre, is within reach, and a few minutes stroll will have you walking on golden sand.
While the drawcard of this coastal town is naturally the beach itself, the village offers an impressive array of boutiques, gift stores, restaurants and cafeé to keep visitors intrigued. Local artists’ studios give glimpses into the creative side of the town, and the kids can be kept entertained at the Marine Gardens, complete with a water play area.
A few minutes' drive from the beach sits Raumati South, a tiny settlement known for its charming eateries. This is where you’ll find live music and chilled vibes most weekends, or a place to grab a coffee to enjoy while strolling through the beach side streets of this unique place.
A Night Time Wine Crawl through Wellington City
With some of the country’s finest wine bars conveniently at hand, Wellington is a great place in which to embark on a wine crawl.
Our favourite Malaysian restaurants in Wellington
When you’re looking for dinner ideas, a hearty Malaysian laksa or fried noodles usually does the trick. Here are our favourite places to find Malaysian food in Wellington.
Wellington’s Favourite Neighbourhood Spots
Venture out from the city centre and visit one of these neighbourhood favourites from across Wellington.
Seats in the City - The Best Places to Take in the View in Pōneke
Appreciate the beauty of Wellington from the best angles by heading to these seats with a view in the capital.
Feast on the Fly: Our Guide to Wellington's Best Takeaway Food
Travel the flavours of Asia in Wellington Te Whanganui-a-Tara
Take your tastebuds on a whirlwind tour through Asia from the comfort of our compact capital city.
A Foodie’s Guide to Wellington
Whether you’re in Wellington for a good time, a long time, or anything in between, here are our top picks to sate your hunger.
Best Urban Wine Experiences in New Zealand
All around New Zealand, we are blessed with incredible wine experiences right in our own urban backyard. No matter your vino preference from a classic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc to a Central Otago Pinot Noir or perhaps an interesting blend from a far away European vineyard, you don’t have to travel far to sample and enjoy a glass or two (responsibly of course!).
Your Guide to Wellington’s Best Burgers
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction and satiation you get when you finish a burger that delivers on all fronts. So we have left no stone unturned in our search for where to find the best burgers in Wellington.
Aotearoa's Underground Haunts, Rooftops and The In-betweens
From rooftop bars to underground haunts and hidden gems in-between, New Zealand has plenty of incredible spots hiding in our cities and towns. They may be a bit hard to find, but the best stuff takes a little effort, right?
7 Urban Hotels Worth Travelling For
Celebrating A Decade of Six Barrel Soda Co.
On 2nd May, Six Barrel Soda Co. will celebrate 10 years. We chatted to Joe Slater, Co-Founder and Managing Director, about how he feels to be celebrating a decade making these utterly delicious drinks.
Estère's Wellington
I’m a sound nerd and an anthropologist. I was born on Waiheke and grew up in Wellington. My mum's a Pākehā New Zealander and my dad's from Cameroon in Central Africa.
Miriama Grace Smith's Wellington
I am a Māori artist based in Wellington. I dabble in a few different areas within the creative arts, as a curator, muralist, illustrator, fashion designer and film art and wardrobe director.
Samuel Flynn-Scott's Wellington
I’m one of the singer-songwriters in The Phoenix Foundation and I make music for film and TV with Conrad Wedde and Lukasz Buda as Moniker. On top of that I write about food for The Spinoff and Cuisine magazine and am generally obsessed with anything delicious.
Stock Up On Vinyl At The 8 Best Record Stores In New Zealand
Give Spotify a rest and throw your money behind local artists and record retailers.
Score The Inside Scoop On New Zealand’s Best Ice Cream And Gelato Spots
Licking back an ice cream on a sweltering hot day is a Kiwi pastime we all know and love. As far as summer favourites go, it's up there with long balmy nights, beach days and sausage sizzles. Whether your vice is hokey pokey, mint choc chip or cookies and cream, the list goes on.
So it's only fair we save you the hassle of scouting out the best spots to pick up a scoop (or three) when the temperature rises. From North to South, these are the best ice cream and gelato shops in New Zealand.
What To Eat In Porirua
Whether you want a laidback brekkie at a beachside café or tasty burgers at a historical homestead, there's much to feast on in Porirua.
6 Best Porirua Walks and Where to Treat Yourself Afterwards
Explore the great outdoors (and hospitality) with these walks in the Porirua region.
Guide to Wellington’s Hidden Art Galleries
The perfect accompaniment to any decent “you can’t beat Wellington on a good day” day, hit the cobbled streets and take a look around some of these incredible art spaces around the CBD
Making Clothes with Heart and Soul
My Desk: Jessie Wong
Flavours in Jars: Talking 'feel good food' with Esther Lewis
Support from the Bottom Up
Hannahs Laneway
Tommy Millions
Mud to Magic
Loaves to Love
A Guide to New Zealand's Coffee Roasters
