This is a great venue that slots right between huge stadium spectacular and small gig.

You know exactly what you are going to get with Puppies, set lists are always advertised, there is always free entry after midnight and the music is always great.

We are lucky in New Zealand that our smaller population means that we often see some really amazing live acts in a smaller intimate setting. San Fran host a lot of really amazing world class gigs.

Vinyl, and not the type you wear as pants. The musical kind has made a big resurgence and Slow Boat is the place to get old and new tunes on the stuff.

Tucked away in a back alley, this unassuming cafe is a favourite spot to camp out on a rainy day and drink a pot of tea and read the paper. It dark and warm and the atmosphere always has a little buzz which makes it easier to concentrate on what you’re doing. Come a sunny day it’s good to pop outside too and enjoy the sun.

So many classes, not enough time! The Community Education Centre have a range of classes to suit. From languages to fitness, cooking, crafts and business courses, the classes are offered throughout the year. The great part is that for a lot of the more popular classes, there are options for days and times. Some courses go for a term, others a month, there are even Saturday courses. Go with a friend or brave it alone, the teachers are friendly and so are the other students. It’s never too late to learn something new!

Ever wanted to join a circus? Learn a party trick? Touch your toes? This is the place to learn it all. They take students of all shapes, sizes and abilities in a safe and encouraging environment. I’m currently trying to master the art of hand balance but there are HEAPS of other course such as hula hoop and trapeze too. Half the fun of going to class is watching the others leap, bound and balance around you. I don’t think enough people know about this Wellington gem so go and see how cool it is for yourself! It’s good for you too!

I went with a group of friends for a hen’s do. We were greeted with bubbles and platters on arrival and we sipped and nibbled as the hostess explained the afternoon’s activities. We would be making champagne cupcakes (YUM) and then we’d battle it out to make the best gingerbread bride and groom. Even the reluctant bakers had a good time, one girl half joked it was probably because the lovely ladies were cleaning up after us. It was so much fun and definitely perfect for our bride-to-be. I’m looking forward to trying out their other cooking classes too!

I’ll never get sick of going to Te Papa. I aways take out of towners - make them stand in the earthquake house and then show them the colossal squid. They love it! It’s also the perfect rainy day hide out and entry’s free! They also have great exhibitions and events where you’re bound to learn something!

I love going to this beautiful building to look at their beautiful artwork. They have a great selection of contemporary works by both local and international artists. Their Nikau Cafe is amazing too.

The demise of the "record" shop is truly a sad thing. For many, spending their lunch hour pursuing the shelves at their local independent store is a distant memory. Youtube and Spotify have, for better or worse, left us music geeks with a slender choice. Slow Boat, however, has weathered the corporate, electronic storm and is the place to pick up CDs, LPs and even posters in the capital. On the very rare occasion I actually purchase a hard CD, this is where I invariably head. A Cuba Street stalwart. 

The home of the stylish and the chic in the capital. NOOD is proof that, whilst Wellington is more renowned for its inner-city OP shops and retro furniture stores, the city can also do modern, elegant and twenty first century. Based in Te Aro, the showroom has an urban feel which exhibits products to furnish and enhance every room in the house. NOOD is not all sleek wooden dining tables and high-end sofas, however; it also tries its hand at more tongue in cheek items, destined to clutter your mantelpiece. 

Whilst Wellington's CBD is compact, diverse and culturally rich (ignore whatever John Key would have you believe), the most rewarding experience the capital can offer is, for me, not to be found in the bars or theatres of Cuba St, Lambton Quay or Courtenay Place. The lesser known Scorching Bay, Owhiro Bay and Seatoun are all worthy of exploration and thankfully all within 10 kms of the CBD, making Wellington ideal for day trips. The lovely fellows over at On Yer Bike can help you get out of that dull gym and onto the reasonably flat, bendy roads of the Miramar peninsula for just $20 per day. No guarantees about the Wellington weather can be made, but gazing out into the Cook Strait on a warm day from Owhiro Bay is truly memorable.

Far removed from the hustle and bustle of the CBD located cinemas, Empire Cinema is an iconic place for Wellington movie-goers. Recently renovated, the interior is lavish, laid-back and historic, serving coffee, alcohol and sweet treats to enjoy pre-movie. Enjoy the movie in luxurious, homely style, as each cinema is furbished with sofas for your comfort. Additionally, Empire showcases artistic talent from Island Bay in its very own gallery, christened 'The White Room'. A diverse selection of movies are available, from the newest 3D blockbuster to art-house, independent movies. Movies starting before 6 on weekdays are a snip at $12.

Encouraged by a friend and in spite of my skepticism about the concept and the price, I went along to Social Cooking late last year. However, the novelty of the idea in practice, as well as the enthusiasm and genuine passion of the staff, contributed to winning me over. Working in pairs, you are firstly given a demonstration of how to cook the dish (one of the dishes was Beef Wellington) and then set loose on your own. A novel, unusual but ultimately fun way to spend an evening with friends or colleagues. Keep an eye out for bargain deals.

Friendly knowledgeable staff, a fantastic selection of vinyl, cds, dvds and even cassette tapes. If you love music, you can't get past Rough Peel Music.

You "could" describe Slow Boat as one of the best record stores in New Zealand, but comparatively speaking, it might be one of the best record stores in the world. For early 20th century music, classic jazz, country, rock, soul, folk and beyond, Slow Boat has an amazing selection of both vinyl and CDs. The staff are extremely sharp and knowledgeable as well. This is one of those places where taking a recommendation is well recommended.

Located on Wilson Street in Newtown, Death Ray Records used to be located in Berhampore and called Evil Genius. For surf, space jazz, psychobilly, garage rock and a bunch of other amazing yet niche late 20th century styles of music, this shop is remarkable. You won't experience anywhere else like this in Wellington.

On first glance, The David N White Gallery just looks like a junk store. Look a little closer and you'll release you came this close to drifting past a treasure trove of curios from the past. Of particular interest is the bins of vinyl records. I have no idea where they keep finding this stuff, but if you're interested in rare or obscure albums and singles, you might just find a few here. Remarkable!

The selection and service here is A+. The potential for nostalgia, or nostalgia for an era of time you never experienced (they probably have a word for this in German) is A++. You'll be amazed by what you'll find here.

If your kids are talented dancers or singers (or just think they are) then they should get involved in the Kidz Stuff Theatre productions. Every school holidays they produce spectacular shows to entertain you. And don't worry, if you aren't the best actor or actress then you are welcome to just show up to watch the production anyway!

For something a little different these school holidays why not introduce your kids to the underwater world? Kids as young as 10 can learn to dive in a safe environment (and heated pool) with the PADI dive experts at NZ Sea Adventures. They will learn all the necessary skills including first aid and learning to swim properly. It only takes 3 days to become qualified and best of all, you only need to bring togs and a towel and they provide the rest.

We are surrounded by water every day of our lives in NZ but there are still so many that cannot swim. This school holidays help your kids be safe in the water by giving them swimming lessons in Wellington. The intensive learn to swim holiday program at Little Makos will give them, and you, the confidence to be around water over the summer months.

If you're sick of the kids pulling the pots and pans out of the cupboards at 7am on a Sunday morning while you're trying to have a sleep in then it might be time to invest in some school holiday music lessons. Jonny and the talented team at Goodtime Music Academy will teach you kids to attack the axe, pound the piano and crash the cymbals, all in the peace of their studios and not your house.

If your little Princess was inspired by Kate last week then it's time to send her to the Twinklepink school holiday programme. For these April school holidays in Wellington the team are putting on their fun "Fantasy Food" classes. The girls will get to spend time with their friends learning how to make edible jewellery, fantastic cupcake decorations and other fanciful food fit for a Queen.

Lately I've found myself taking long road trips in rental cars where the radio stations can get a bit dodgy.  So you might say I've become obsessed with scouring record stores' bargain bins and previously-owned sections for quality CDs to bring along on my next trip. Most of the stock in Lo Cost is new, and understandably a bit higher than my appointed price range, but their smaller selection of used CDs is quite varied. Definitely a worthwhile stop while you're strolling along Jackson St.

St. Vincent de Paul's is a staple in the opportunity shop circuit in New Zealand, with the Wellington region alone boasting at least six locations. While the main shop in Newtown is bigger (and, admittedly, has a larger range of furniture for it), the Vinnies tucked away in Aro Valley is the cosiest. A very short walk up Aro St. from Arobake, this Vinnies is housed in a former post office, and many of its accents--the glass blocks, the floor-to-ceiling windows and spacious bench at the front of the store--are relics of the building's history. This location gets the most donations and is best known for its unexpected offerings. I've come across everything from a zany pair of knitted leggings to an antique camera to early editions of classic books here, and the store manager is extremely personable. Have a look in the next time you're browsing at Aro Video, I doubt you'll leave empty handed.

The Salvation Army in Miramar is easily their best shop in Wellington. With a lovely NZ-made clothing section, rows upon rows of shoes, a back room of furniture (including some lovelies dangling from the ceiling!) and stacks of books and tapes, this place is always stocked with the best. Check out their new line of handmade pillows; prints include a lovely saffron and cute kiwiana. I’ve never been able to stick to my budget here– be prepared to leave with a quirky new mug or vase at the very least.

One of the best op shops in Kilbirnie, and all of Wellington. You never know what you’ll find tucked away here. Have a look through their extensive yet concise kitchenwares corner, or nip upstairs to scour through their patterns and blankets. With merchandise as varied as polka-dot dresses to offbeat mugs, sketchpads to novelty raincoats, and toaster ovens to granny slippers, I’ve never been disappointed after a visit to Mary Potter in Kilbirnie.

Great place to find records and CDs, both secondhand and new, on Cuba St. The staff are friendly and helpful, and while prices can be a bit steep, quality and selection are pretty exceptional. Don’t be surprised if you walk in looking for one specific album and walk out with that one, plus a handful more.

Always very helpful and a wide range of stock

Cheap prices on car parts

The place to get some tunez put in your car

Good place for tyres and servicing

Sometimes you need a good talking to and sometimes the person that needs to do that talking is, well, yourself. It doesn’t have to be out loud, of course, that would be crazy. But once in a while everyone needs a little time out, take a bit of a walk and sort things out. The Waterfront is the best place, I’ve found, to just have a dawdle and solve your life woes in your head. On a nice day the gentle woosh and wash of the sea has meditative effects and helps you slowly pick apart the knots of the your worries. I do it about once a week, but that probably says a lot more about me than about what healthy mental health practice is.

There’s something about the eclectic, barely holding itself together aesthetic that seems to exist to just encourage reflection. There’s nothing like a long black and a long night of the soul to make a visit to Enigma really memorable.

Because writing’s a play the only way to argue with yourself publicly, right? Right? Well… I think I’m funny.

Stay with me on this one. There is something oddly cathartic about the contained vast open space of this converted airplane hanger. The cold neon lights and the very muchness of everything there is incredibly good at putting things into perspective. Everything seems a little better, a little further away, a little less pressing, when you’re browsing nothings in a giant Warehouse. And, hey, you might come away with a four dollar pair of track pants. So. Score.

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Mighty Mighty is something of a Wellington institution, with its kitsch decor, quirky soundtrack, and outlook over Cuba Mall. Though it’s most popular as a late-night gig venue, or, from 6.30pm every Wednesday, its quiz, it’s also a great spot for an after-work or early afternoon beer. Later on, there’s often no door charge, but it’s rarely more than $5.

Run by New Zealand indie music guru Ian "Blink" Jorgensen, Puppies – in the former site of Happy, on corner Tory and Vivian Sts – is the best place to check out up-and-coming local bands. There’s a gig – sometimes two – on most nights, and admission tends to be free after midnight, making it a great place to end a night out. If you’re lucky, there might be karaoke.

There’s a gig on most nights at Bodega – often up-and-coming local bands – but it also plays host to some of the biggest names on tour in New Zealand. The lighting and sound tends to be good; there’s a smoking area out back; and the bar staff are adept at handling the throngs.

Of the bands and artists I’ve seen live in Wellington, the best shows – The Kills, Neko Case, Broken Social Scene, DJ Premier, Ghostface Killah – have typically been at San Francisco Bath House. The staff there are pros at handling both performers and punters, and the wide stage means there’s more visibly and less of a crowd crush than there is at Bodega.

If you’re in the region of upper Cuba - maybe you’ve just had dinner at Fidel’s, or seen a movie at the Lighthouse Cinema on Wigan St - you can’t go past Havana for a drink. Its tapas menu is varied and delicious, there’s often a band or DJ pencilled in to play, and there’s no cocktail its experienced staff haven’t made (or can’t learn how to). In summer, its deck - a relatively new addition to the bar - catches the last of the evening sun, too.

My Fiance has been dealing with Scott from the Michael Hill in Chartwell. I am the happiest "bride to be" with the most amazing wedding set. My Fiance said his dealings with Scott was above and beyond what he would have expected from someone in a Retail position. He has helped from beginning to end with the picking and purchase through to the custom orders that have been placed. For all doting males - Go see Scott at Chartwell, He will make sure she says YES!!!!

I have been dealing with Jason and have booked to visit Windy Ridge, all I can say is I am very impressed at his service and was not expecting a male. I have since found out they have also taken over Willow Glen and we have booked to meet with Jason this weekend. So far the service has been outstanding and the information provided on their website is simple yet informative.

Again WOW!!!! I am working with Sema to create the most stunning boquet of flowers for my wedding party. They are made of Flax and are dyed and hand crafted into the most stunning flowers I have ever seen, which I will get to keep forever. I recommend every bride to give Sema a call and see what she can do for you, my request is the non standrd boquet and she has gladly accepted the challenge.

I have had been to Vilagrads several times for work functions & it is one of of the locations I am highly considering for my Wedding. It is a beautiful & warm atmosphere, very inviting and romantic. The food never disappoints. The Staff are friendly & have great services to offer for a wedding. The only downfall is if you are after a lower budget wedding Villagrads might not be the right location for you and you will need to sort a solution for transport for those whom wish to drink.

A hip establishment for the arty, the creative, and those who just want to have a good boogie. Open late with exciting, up and coming bands. Don’t miss the quiz night.

Another fantastic Wellington bookstore. It’s a beautifully laid-out shop, with the books lining the walls and just waiting for you to pick them up and take them home. Particularly good is the CD collection here, including Goons shows and classical music. I’ve ordered books here before and they always arrive promptly. Just a great store!

These guys know how to show you a good time. Always excellent shows and a great night out - I’ve seen burlesque here, phenomenal, and I’m seeing Amanda Palmer in September, can’t wait! It’s a fun vibe, there are drinks and food specials including pizza and bar snacks - and they even have a coat check! Great spot.

If you’re after excellent tunes and a great night of head-banging, Bodega’s your go-to. I reckon it’s a great place for rock acts. Chilled out, relaxed - and they take care of you with excellent service and staff who look out for you. Fun times to be had at Bodega for sure.

Midnight Espresso do a spectacular hot chocolate and the best fresh counter food in Welly with a huge range of vege/vegan/gluten free options using heaps of fresh veges. Impress a guest to Wellington or bring your friends for a late night coffee stop. Great variety on the menu and funky, friendly staff.