A lovely place for an afternoon picnic, the Botanic Garden between Thorndon and Kelburn are an easy walk from central Wellington. Visit the duck pond, or hike up to the cable car for picturesque views of Wellington Harbor. The gardens are beautiful in spring and summer, and are free year round.

If you're after some serious exercise with a touch of fun, head to Freyberg Pool on Oriental Parade. With a multitude of lanes (in a variety of speeds, to suit your mood), aquajogging, and ample pool accessories (think kick boards and pull buoys) you'll definitely be feeling the burn. After a big workout, treat yourself to the sauna, steam room, or spa pools-- the extra cost is worth how relaxed you'll feel afterward. Open 6 am - 9 pm daily, Freyberg has the flexibility of a gym with a little chlorine added.

I'll admit, most of the times I've ventured out to the aquatic centre in Kilbirnie have been for school programmes; more than a few primary schools in the greater Wellington area bring their charges to Kilbirnie for their excellent swim lessons and an incredibly fun-looking spray pool-- ah, to be 5 again. But look to the right on your way to the programmes pool and you'll see the most divine 50-metre heated indoor pool this side of Sydney. With so many lanes, you'll never find yourself caught in someone else's wake again. And with treats like the cafe, three private spa pools, and private saunas waiting at the end of your exercise routine, your bland days of swimming a few cool down laps and leaving in a haze of chlorine will be a thing of the past.

Take an easy walk up to the Mt. Victoria Lookout or set aside an afternoon for hiking through the major trails. Mt. Vic offers free fun, with gorgeous views of both the city and sea.

The first bit of bush I saw in New Zealand, Central Park is amazingly secluded given its central location within the city. Nestled between Mt. Cook and Brooklyn, find your way through this slice of forest, popping across tiny wooden bridges to admire the natural streams that cross the park. This is not the time to suppress your inner child– no trip to Central Park would be complete without a ride on the flying fox!

A revolving door of impressive exhibits by international and well-known local artists, this free gallery in Civic Square is best enjoyed with regular visits. Whether stopping in on a rainy afternoon or making a point to see Len Lye's kinetic sculptures before they vanished, Wellington's City Gallery provides thought-provoking entertainment time and time again. Multiple exhibit spaces span two floors, and the gallery plays an accommodating host for writers and other speakers with a generous but cosy amphitheater. Just remember to recharge with a flat white and a donut from the Nikau Cafe located on the ground floor of the gallery before you leave.

(Nearly) every Sunday, my significant other and I venture out of our cozy weekend bed to the Harbourside Market. While I'll admit location was a bit of a factor in making this 'our' vege market (bonus for being catty-corner to New World, making Sunday my official grocery day), Harbourside Market has much more to offer than its central location. More than 10 farms bring their produce to the table(s) each week, and super competitive pricing means the answer to the 'what can we get with our last $20 (or $10, or $5 or $2-- it's been done, folks)' question is always 'heaps'. On sunny days, make time to buy lunch from one of the many carts sprawling down to the waterfront. I haven't seen it there in a while, but the elusive Burrito Magic is tops-- if you catch it, don't let it go without a bean burrito and a colorful Jarritos.

Te Papa may be one of the most trafficked tourist attractions in Wellington, but it's certainly for locals, too. Whether you come in for a special exhibit like Game Masters or Warhol: Immortal (on now!) or to test your earthquake preparedness skills with a walk through the Earthquake House, you'll be sure to learn something new-- and have fun doing it. Te Papa is also especially helpful for those new to New Zealand like myself. See a bird on the waterfront and want to know what to call it? You'll find its taxidermy counterpart on the first floor. Come in on an afternoon, or stay all evening on Thursdays when the museum is open until 9 pm.

Please tell me you’ve already met Andres Pimentel. His larger-than-life persona (and hat) make him incredibly easy to spot at the Harbourside Market each Sunday. While his main restaurant is in Lower Hutt, he and his team make the trek up to the market every week. I always get the quesadilla, banking on its easy portability, but the burritos and tacos always look just as impressive. With vege meals in each category, the ability to add in guac or sour cream for a nominal fee, and spices ranging from mild to hot, your options are pretty varied. DISCLAIMER: But seriously, don’t be cavalier about asking for your meal ‘hot’ unless you have no working taste buds to speak of and a gallon of milk handy. Andres will tell you that people can’t handle their spices in New Zealand. You might feel like proving him wrong. Then you’ll find yourself crying by the side of the skatepark begging for sips from strangers’ drinks.

Come in early each Sunday for an ever-changing showcase of food and drinks from local producers. From wine tastings to cooking classes, demos from the professionals to teens selling lollies, City Market has a lot to offer. Come for the incredible House of Dumplings. Yum!

It is tradition that every Friday night my significant other and I get takeaways. There are always a few contenders, but at least fifty percent of the time we decide on Mt. Vic Chippery. With its grand opening earlier this year, Mt. Vic is certainly not the longest standing fish & chip shop in Wellington, but with its fresh look, relatively reasonable prices, and generous portions, Mt. Vic Chippery is quickly becoming a favorite. The shop is always bustling, and with a seemingly ever expanding/changing menu reflecting seasonal availability, Mt. Vic Chippery keeps two vegetarian fish and chip-minus-the-fish enthusiasts very happy. Give the vege burger a try, or if nothing else come in for the chippery's eponymous wide variety of chips. From crinkle cut to kumara, you really can't go wrong. They take orders online now, too: http://www.mtvicchippery.co.nz/

In the States, takeaway salad restaurants were a dime a dozen. But here in Wellington, I've found them harder to come by-- making them so much more valuable when you stumble across one. Looking for all intents like any regular cafe from the outside, Kapai is actually a secret haven for some serious greens. Look for them in the expansive salad bar, but also in your drink-- their green smoothie is tasty enough to make me wonder whether they pour straight sugar in with the fruit (though I suspect the answer to that would be a resounding no). With locations across the city and the option to eat in or take away, you'll have no excuse not to meet your daily serving of fruits and veges by lunch time.

Ara Sushi is great stop for lunch when you're in Petone for a lazy afternoon. They have sushi boxes made to order, or you can pick from individual pieces in the glass case up front to create your own. The avocado and cucumber roll here is amazing, even in winter. Nice avo is difficult to find in the winter, and expensive-- so any time I find an opportunity to order it in my food, I seize it. Try the seaweed salad roll for something a bit different.

With a permanent stall on Manners St. and late-night hours (11 pm nightly), Crepes A Go-Go satisfies your every craving, sweet or savory. While the nutella crepe might not be the most health-conscious, choose from a variety of organic and fresh products and go for the gluten-free buckwheat base. The Southern Cross and Bleu Rendez Vous are my favorites.

Please tell me you’ve already met Andres Pimentel. His larger-than-life persona (and hat) make him incredibly easy to spot at the Harbourside Market each Sunday. While his main restaurant is in Lower Hutt, he and his team make the trek up to the market every week. I always get the quesadilla, banking on its easy portability, but the burritos and tacos always look just as impressive. With vege meals in each category, the ability to add in guac or sour cream for a nominal fee, and spices ranging from mild to hot, your options are pretty varied. DISCLAIMER: But seriously, don’t be cavalier about asking for your meal ‘hot’ unless you have no working taste buds to speak of and a gallon of milk handy. Andres will tell you that people can’t handle their spices in New Zealand. You might feel like proving him wrong. Then you’ll find yourself crying by the side of the skatepark begging for sips from strangers’ drinks.

It is tradition that every Friday night my significant other and I get takeaways. There are always a few contenders, but at least fifty percent of the time we decide on Mt. Vic Chippery. With its grand opening earlier this year, Mt. Vic is certainly not the longest standing fish & chip shop in Wellington, but with its fresh look, relatively reasonable prices, and generous portions, Mt. Vic Chippery is quickly becoming a favorite. The shop is always bustling, and with a seemingly ever expanding/changing menu reflecting seasonal availability, Mt. Vic Chippery keeps two vegetarian fish and chip-minus-the-fish enthusiasts very happy. Give the vege burger a try, or if nothing else come in for the chippery's eponymous wide variety of chips. From crinkle cut to kumara, you really can't go wrong. They take orders online now, too: http://www.mtvicchippery.co.nz/

While I was first introduced to Trawling Sea Market for its vege rolls and chips, it's hard not to notice the vast array of fish and seafood basking on ice behind the counter. From really fresh (and bright!) salmon fillets to flounder, lobster to prawns, they seem to have it all. Take your cuts home raw or get them battered in the store. Prices are reasonable and location is super central, right near the top of Cuba St.

Six Barrel Soda Co. is a haven amidst stormy weather in Wellington. While Six Barrel can be seen perched above Hope Bros. on Dixon St., the entrance to this bit of carbonated heaven is actually just up Eva St. Once inside, you're literally above all the drudgery of Courtenay Place. If the height doesn't make you giddy, the sodas will. Stick to classics like vanilla cream, raspberry & lemon, or (my new favorite!) kola nut, or get a bit more daring with a seasonal offering. Six Barrel is great for lunch or a light dinner, as its miniature kitchen proves more than adequate for whipping up an incredible halloumi burger. As the name suggests, these burgers are mini, so go for the two burger combo if you're feeling starved. Pickle slices and a recent upgrade to sea salt fries (rather than crisps) finish off the meal. Bring a book or choose from the stack on hand if you're in an introspective mood. A thoughtful space filled with light wood, rows of bottled syrupy goodness, and an expanse of windows filtering in whatever sun peeks between the clouds, Six Barrel never disappoints.

Enigma is my go-to spot when I need a bit of a break on my walk home from Thorndon. Steer clear of their massive salads and sandwiches in favor of a heaping bowl of wedges, affordable at $6 and perfect for sharing. While I’m not usually a fan, the iced mocha at Enigma is a bit addictive– watch out.

One of the first cafes I ever visited in Wellington, Fidels remains a favorite. Keep it simple with nachos or fries to share, or suck down a massive Snickers thick shake if you dare. While I haven’t taken them up on it yet, I’ve heard only good things about the pizza and beer deal. If the weather is good, grab a seat outside at one of their picnic tables.

I've been going to Paper Bag Princess since last January, when the op shop was on the other side of Cuba St. and I was merely visiting New Zealand. Since then, both PBP and I have gotten an upgrade (them, a flashier new location 1-2 blocks up the road and me, a visa) and I think both are better for it. While I wouldn't say Paper Bag Princess is the most consistent spot in Wellington to score truly vintage finds, I usually manage to leave the store with a few current-but-previously-loved items, from my go-to purple crushed velvet circle skirt to my favorite red headscarf covered in pink flowers. The mood is always fun and funky, with dancey music and friendly staff. Look out for their bright yellow flyers around town-- when sales turn up every once in a while, they're great. Like, 2 for 1 kind of great.

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.

It's no secret that Recycle Boutique on Vivian St. is pretty great. Their motto, 'Recycled Reloved Repaid!', really sums them up. Bring your old finds, get some cash, use it to buy new old finds. Or skip the first two steps and just add some sweet vintage or pre-loved goodies to your wardrobe. One of the best bets in Wellington, Recycle consistently stocks a solid range of skirts, dresses, knitwear, and vintage pieces, has a great men's section, and can always be counted on for a beanie or beret to add to your collection. I truly can't walk past this place without wanting to stop in, then promptly making time to do it.

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.

Looking for zines? Art? Jewelry? A new brooch? Matchbox has a little bit of everything, and soon they’ll have even more. Currently expanding to a Cuba St. storefront, this tiny shop was my best kept secret, tucked away up a flight of red stairs except on Friday nights, when they venture down to the Left Bank’s Night Market. Go for gift ideas your friends will actually like (bright totes, funky tea towels, zines) or to find what you’re craving (eyeball brooches, brass bunny rings, more zines).

The General Store is anything but general, packed with things you might never have even known you needed-- until now. The General Store, which opened its doors just before Christmas, is a beautiful little treasure trove of found objects, all sourced here in NZ and restored and repurposed for your purchasing delight. I dare you to walk in on a rainy day and not get caught up by the colorful typewriters in various shapes and sizes, loads of natural wood, and Nico's dulcet strains playing on the stereo, just as I did. Shelves made from library pigeon holes and a table fitted out from industrial plan drawers will call to you, but if your tiny flat won't fit a new cabinet, leave with a little parcel of hand rolled beeswax candles instead.

Trade Aid is the best place in Wellington to find unique items from around the world for around your house. Whether you're looking for a new rug or pretty quilt to cover up some chilly bit of your home or you want to liven up your space with some printed throw pillows, Trade Aid has you covered. Plus, when your friends ask, you'll be able to say your new bedding is from Kashmir or Tibet. With reasonable prices and a fair trade system firmly in place, Trade Aid makes for truly guilt-free shopping. You'll leave knowing the money you paid for your purchases is actually making its way back to the hands that crafted them.

With so many great little secondhand furniture stores along Riddiford St. in Newtown, it's hard to know where to start. A great place to begin is Renown Furnishings. A small store, neatly crowded with lovely dressers, mirrors, lamps, and desks, Renown has its own style at an affordable price point. I found my whitewashed four-drawer dresser here and threw in a retro magazine rack that doubles as my bedside table, all for well under $100. Since the shop is so small, keep in mind that Renown can't deliver your goods-- but they will hold them for you at the store until you can haul them home later.

The main branch of Vinnies shops in central Wellington, this St Vincent de Paul in Newtown is well stocked, large, and covered with friendly bargains. From oversized floral mugs to vintage NZ-made dresses, you'll find something each time you visit. It may be the central branch, but this shop has plenty of quirks; pop upstairs for a browse through rows of beautifully worn furniture, then giggle when you realize staff members have to carry the furniture up and down a narrow flight of stairs each time a purchase is made or a new acquisition comes in. A must-try any time I find myself up on Riddiford St.

Boasting one of the largest and best selections of furniture of any op shop in Wellington, this Salvation Army store on Taranaki is most useful for its affordable selection of mirrors, wardrobes, and office chairs. A word to the wise: be prepared to make snappy decisions. People know when the new stock comes in, and furniture is bought up fast. Although I’ve no complaints about my current wardrobe (listed as a ‘Genuine Narnian Portal’ on Trade Me), I still get pangs of regret at passing on a beautiful one I saw here in February that had already sold the morning after we spotted it.