Luzie L.'s
Best BBQ Spots for the Summer
- 110Oriental BayWellington CentralOriental bay is one of the most scienic central city destinations. Look out over the harbour, and take a stroll through the Norfolk pines. There are BBQ facilities in the park opposite the beach, and you can grab a delcious gelato for dessert from Kaffe Eis.
- 29Staglands Wildlife ReserveUpper Hutt CentralStaglands is home to so many beautiful animals, and it's amazing to see them in such an idyllic place as Akatarawa valley. Probably the best destination for a Vegan or Vegetarian BBQ.
- 31Otari-Wilton’s BushWellington CentralOtari-Wilton's Bush is Wellington's native-only botanic garden. It's not far from central wellington, so transport isn't a huge issue. There are BBQs and picnic sites free for use. This is a great place to take both locals, and people from out of town!
- 43Kaitoke Regional ParkPakuratahiPerfect for a day trip, the Kaitoke regional park provides free to use BBQs, and a beautiful view of the Rimutakas also. When you need to escape the city, there is nothing better than native bush and quiet.
- 53Island Bay BeachIsland BayIsland Bay beach on a good day, is simply stunning. The view, and the sandy beach make it the perfect spot for a Kiwi picnic or BBQ (byo BBQ). Dip your toes in the water, or relax and enjoy the sunset!
Luzie L.'s
Best Family Friendly Pubs
- 125The General PractitionerWellington CentralThe general practitioner is always a treat to visit. The fare is on point, and very reasonably priced, as are the drinks. The tapas style plates make for good kiddie servings, and the staff are always more than happy to assist you in this decision.
- 28Rogue & VagabondTe AroRogue & Vagabond is a very dog friendly craft beer bar in Glover park. Home to a particularly phlegmatic bull dog, Bruce, the bar sets up bean bags out on the grass on sunny days, where your pooch is free to play. The curly fries and pizzas are also worthy of a mention, delicious food and beverages all round.
- 36The BresolinWellington CentralThe hand-cut chips at The Bresolin only add to the comforting, rustic feel of the menu. The courtyard cannot be beaten, especially when the open fireplace is roaring. The staff are all dressed in cute, matching aprons, and the bar is equally impressive. Definitely worth visiting if you want that cozy feel without having to head too far from the CBD.
- 428MontereyNewtownIf I'm ever going to drink in Newtown, Monterey is my go to. The music is always great, and the staff always go above and beyond. The bottomless filter coffee is always a plus also!
- 52Public Bar and EateryTe AroPublic have a huge space, which they utilise to full potential. If you need a function room, or just somewhere to go an get a good view of a sports match, this is a good go-to. Clean, and crisp with friendly staff and reasonably priced drinks.
Luzie L.'s
Best Fries in Wellington
- 145Sweet Mother's KitchenTe AroThe curly fries at Sweet Mother's are to die for. Literally even. The staff are kooky, and always happy to help, and the pie cabinet is jam packed with delicious southern inspired treats, like pecan pie.
- 225Mt Vic ChipperyMount VictoriaRustic style, hand cut Fish n’ chips. While a little on the pricey side, the extra few dollars are definitely worth it. You can choose the fish you’d like, and everything is made to order. The kumara chips are out of this world amazing, and the staff are super friendly. Highly recommned.
- 32Aro Fish and Chip ShopAro ValleyIf you're into thick cut chips, and pinball machines Aro fish n' ship shop is the place for you! Also worth mentioning is their proximity to Garage Project brewery. Is there any better pairing than fish n' chips and beer?
- 43Laundry on CubaTe AroLaundry is such a good time, from the delish craft beer on tap to the weekend DJs. The food is super good, with vegetarian and vegan options available, I highly recommend the tacos. The decor is superbly kitsch, and the staff are always friendly and there is a really cute courtyard.
- 56The BresolinWellington CentralThe hand-cut chips at The Bresolin only add to the comforting, rustic feel of the menu. The courtyard cannot be beaten, especially when the open fireplace is roaring. The staff are all dressed in cute, matching aprons, and the bar is equally impressive. Definitely worth visiting if you want that cozy feel without having to head too far from the CBD.
Luzie L.'s
Best Gelato and Icecream
- 19Kaffee Eis CourtenayTe AroKaffee Eis make amazing gelato, and everyone loves gelato. The staff are super attentive, enthusiastic and knowledgable. Try one of their iced coffees, or take a litre or two home with you. I highly recommend the plum flavour. Oh, and all their sorbets are vegan now, which is a recent addition.
- 228Tommy MillionsWellington CentralTommy Millions offers up amazing thin crust pizza by the slice. Super convenient for grabbing a snack on your way to and from downtown activities, Tommy Millions is located on the corner of Courteney place and Taranaki street. They even do a cheeseless, vegan option with heaps of veggies for the price of a margarita, if you ask nicely!
- 32Movenpick WellingtonTe AroMovenpick icecreams make you feel like you're enoying a European summer. Delicious, and creamy, and made with no artificial ingredients are likely almost healthy! Try the milkshakes too, they are super decadent!
- 45Gelissimo GelateriaWellington CentralThe perfect date night treat! Gelissimo Gelato is stocked all over Wellington, and you can always be sure you're in for quality, and amazing taste. There are some really interesting flavours, like Violet Crunchie. The ginger beer sorbet is also worth a go!
- 54I AdoreTe AroThis place is a crazy wonderland of treats, as far as the eye can see. They have really delicious green tea icecreams, and fro-yo with as many toppings as you can pack on. Try the imported dried fruits, they are very interesting to say the least. This is a dangerous destination for those of us with a sweet tooth, thats for sure!
Luzie L.'s
Summer Shape Up
- 12Hot Yoga of New ZealandTe AroI'm such a sucker for trying new yoga classes, especially when there is a first timers deal available, hot yoga is no exception to this, with the first class only costing $8. There are two locations, one on Wakefield street, and one on Featherston street, both offering a selection of classes. I highly recommend the power Vinyasa, it'll make you feel like you rule the world!
- 22Polhill ReserveWellington CentralThere is no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing. The bush walks in Polhill reserve are all amazing, whether you go for 20 mins, or a whole day. Its a neat way to see the different little niches and communities within Wellington. You can walk right up to the Zealandia ridge fence, and definitely see some native birds.
- 38Probably the fanciest (reasonably priced) gym in Wellington. Complete with saunas, steam rooms and a GHD bar, Exodus is a temple of sweat and hard labor. Classes are included in the membership, and a huge variety are available, all of which have spectacularly knowledgeable trainers.
- 41Studio L'amour Dance AcademyWellington CentralFor those with a taste for something more exotic, Studio L'amour is Wellington's home of Burlesque and Pole Dancing. With incredibly experienced, and understanding instructors, these classes are a fantastic introduction into a world where you perhaps wouldn't ordinarily be inclined to enter! Whether it's fitness, or a confidence boost you're after, these classes are amazing!
- 51Virginia Keast ZumbaWellington CentralVirginia Keast Zumba is the place to go in Wellington to get your groove on! With four different locations to choose from in the Wellington area, you really have no excuse! Choose from either a traditional Zumba dance class, or branch out and try Zumba Toning, which incorporates sticks for rhythm and strength!
Luzie L.'s
Wellington's Best Markets
- 14Wellington Night MarketTe AroFriday and Saturday nights in Left bank arcade, just off Cuba Street, something magic happens. Delicious food vendors, serving up everything from crepes to Chimichanga line the arcade, punctuated by art and jewelry stalls, and even live music. Sheltered from the (inevitable) rain, Wellington night market is an invigorating alternative to the classic dinner-and-a-movie winter night out.
- 21Victoria Street Farmer's MarketWellington CentralI feel like the Wellington fruit and veggie markets don't get talked about enough because everyone just goes to them. These markets are really the only reasonable way to get produce in Wellington, price wise. So many good deals, always. Its like the adult version of a candy store.
- 33Wellington Underground MarketWellington CentralWellington Underground Market is a mecca of unique, handmade items. Ranging from clothing, to homeware, from health and beauty, to music, the selection is vast! This market is hosted every Saturday, and is a wonderful experience for the whole family!
- 41Hill Street Farmers MarketThorndonHill St. farmers market is an amazing little market with a focus on quality, Organic produce and sustainability. Held every Saturday, it is well worth the hike; whether it's to grab a jar of Fix and Fogg peanut butter, which is made locally, or some Martinborough peonies.
- 517Harbourside Market WellingtonWellington CentralEvery Sunday Wellington’s waterfront becomes host to an eclectic array of food, and produce stalls. Go stock up on fruit and veg, browse the many exotic breakfast options, grab some fresh flowers, honey or a fresh juice. A great way to end your weekend, and a productive activity too!