Caro D.'s
Hipster Hangouts
- 124Six Barrel Soda FactoryTe AroSix 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.
- 236Midnight EspressoWellington CentralWhen I first arrived in Wellington, my new friends raved about the vege nachos at Midnight. They weren't kidding! This plate is so loaded--hummus, chilli sauce, avo slices, and sometimes even green olives complement the more traditional beans, salsa, cheese, and jalapenos no respectable plate of nachos could go without--but it has a surprisingly decent corn chip-to-topping ratio, given the epic proportions of the latter. If you ever get past your craving for these nachos, Midnight actually has a ton of other great vege and vegan options (as well as tasty looking treats for the carnivores in your life), some killer juices and smoothies, and one of the best caramel slices in town. A bite of their gigantic chocolate cake (with yogurt) can also be pretty hard to pass up.
- 36PuppiesTe AroPuppies is reliable for a good night out filled with music and friends. Follow the noise on Tory St. rather than signs, as there aren't really any for Puppies-- that's part of the charm. Come to watch local favorites (or, sometimes not so local) on stage, or get in free after midnight when the DJs come out. Specials like the Dana Scully (an aptly named fiery ginger beer) and plenty of couches in the back will keep you going into the wee hours of the night.
- 46CrumpetTe AroCrumpet on Manners St. has atmosphere in spades, complete with jazzy music and faded prints of dreamy ladies on the walls. Located right next to the Opera House, walking into Crumpet feels like taking a step back in time. Coffees are well executed while the hot chocolate is tall and lovely. The crumpets themselves come in a variety of tastes, sweet and savory, and all unique-- the pear and ricotta is worth a try. Come in for a cozy place to read (though the lighting can be a bit dim) or slide in at the bar for a chat with one of the Boon brothers themselves.
- 511Mighty MightyWellington CentralA great place to see a show or grab a beer, going to Mighty Mighty is a pretty good guarantee of a fun night out. Boogie near the stage or hang on the couches lining the walls. If you’re daring, boogie on top of the couches. Not just good for a night out, this venue on Cuba St. is also host to an array of daytime events in Wellington, from Emporium’s epic sale, to Wellington Zinefest, to the monthly Mighty Mighty Market.
Caro D.'s
Best Concert Venue
- 16PuppiesTe AroPuppies is reliable for a good night out filled with music and friends. Follow the noise on Tory St. rather than signs, as there aren't really any for Puppies-- that's part of the charm. Come to watch local favorites (or, sometimes not so local) on stage, or get in free after midnight when the DJs come out. Specials like the Dana Scully (an aptly named fiery ginger beer) and plenty of couches in the back will keep you going into the wee hours of the night.
- 211Mighty MightyWellington CentralA great place to see a show or grab a beer, going to Mighty Mighty is a pretty good guarantee of a fun night out. Boogie near the stage or hang on the couches lining the walls. If you’re daring, boogie on top of the couches. Not just good for a night out, this venue on Cuba St. is also host to an array of daytime events in Wellington, from Emporium’s epic sale, to Wellington Zinefest, to the monthly Mighty Mighty Market.
- 31Michael Fowler GalleryThorndonThe Michael Fowler Centre in Civic Square is not only one of Wellington’s most unique-looking buildings, for all that bright metal, but it’s a pretty swanky concert hall. With wide staircases, plush carpeting, and orchestra seating, you’ll feel inclined to wear a ball gown even when you’re going to see Garbage.
- 49San Francisco Bath HouseTe AroClimb the stairs on Cuba St. to reach this venue. Most good hip-hop shows in Wellington play here. Fitted out with an outdoor balcony, you can catch a breeze if you’ve been dancing too hard.
- 55BodegaTe AroA pretty bare bones, straightforward concert hall, this venue on Ghuznee St. may not be one to pop into on an off night, but it gets the job done well when your favorite band is in town. Friendly bar staff and an open plan with plenty of room to flail about make this a solid spot.
Caro D.'s
Hidden Gems
- 12Matchbox StudiosTe AroLooking 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).
- 26PuppiesTe AroPuppies is reliable for a good night out filled with music and friends. Follow the noise on Tory St. rather than signs, as there aren't really any for Puppies-- that's part of the charm. Come to watch local favorites (or, sometimes not so local) on stage, or get in free after midnight when the DJs come out. Specials like the Dana Scully (an aptly named fiery ginger beer) and plenty of couches in the back will keep you going into the wee hours of the night.
- 324Six Barrel Soda FactoryTe AroSix 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.
- 45If you're in a hurry (or take a later lunch in the CBD) stop into the Taste on Willis food court for Tulsi Takeaway. While the flavor here is comparable to its counterpart on Cuba St., the prices are not. Mains normally range from $6.50-8, but stop in after 2 pm for the really super deals-- snag any curry with rice for $5.50, or add naan and a drink for $10 ($9 if you go vege). While the vegetarian selection isn't expansive, the mix vege curry is a solid choice. And if they're all out of your favorite curry, no worries-- there are about a million other on-the-go options in this vast and varied food court.
- 519Golding's Free DiveWellington CentralTaking cues from the American dive bar, Golding’s is big on craft beer, a bit of a hole in the wall, and, if you don’t know about it already, can be easy to miss. Hidden away down Leeds St. (more like an alley) past Six Barrel Soda and Pizza Pomodoro, this long and narrow cavern sports buckets for lampshades and skiis above the bar. The atmosphere is lively but civilized, the tap beers change daily, and pizza specials on the wall are hauled in from nearby Pizza Pomodoro. Definitely worth a gander.
Caro D.'s
Best City Buildings
- 13Museum Of Wellington City & SeaWellington CentralOne of the city’s truest museums, City & Sea celebrates Wellington’s maritime history from the historic Bond Store on the waterfront. Check out Plimmer’s Ark or watch a documentary of the Wahine Disaster. Voted one of the world’s top fifty museums this year by Britain’s The Times.
- 234Te 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.
- 322The Embassy TheatreWellington CentralOne of the best theatres in Wellington, a city known for its abundance of premium and art house cinemas, The Embassy is truly a classic. Built in 1924 and recently refurbished, The Embassy's art deco elegance puts you in the right mood for a truly great movie-watching experience. Make your way into the expansive main auditorium for an opening or a screening during the NZIFF; the sheer size of the main screen will astonish even more than the architecture that surrounds you. But don't discount the two new deLuxe auditoriums accessible through The Black Sparrow; while obviously smaller than the main screen, they provide intimate viewing in plush leather seats, and are worth experiencing in their own right.
- 41Michael Fowler GalleryThorndonThe Michael Fowler Centre in Civic Square is not only one of Wellington’s most unique-looking buildings, for all that bright metal, but it’s a pretty swanky concert hall. With wide staircases, plush carpeting, and orchestra seating, you’ll feel inclined to wear a ball gown even when you’re going to see Garbage.
- 53One of the most iconic symbols of New Zealand’s capital, come for a picnic on the lawn or a tour inside. Don’t wimp out when a friendly tour guide offers to take your photo.
Caro D.'s
Tough Girl Chic
- 116Good As GoldTe AroIf I had an endless supply of cash and nothing to spend it on but clothes, I just might spend it all here. Everything in Good As Gold is beautifully made, sourcing labels from around the globe-- some from right here in New Zealand. Not only are all the items GAG has just a little bit unique, but purchasing them helps promote and sustain something really cool. Owner Ruben Bryant is super into growth and evolution (he recently re-fitted the store out to make it look like a treehouse), and customer service at GAG is truly top notch. I've had so many great conversations and interactions with the sales team at the Good As Gold store, and when I tried out their online store for the first time (and missed a 20% off promotion by literally ONE minute) they gave me a couple of extra days to decide on my purchases and then refunded me the 20% I'd missed out on when they saw my order come through.
- 22I'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.
- 31Fusion Surf SkateWellington CentralAs the name would suggest, Fusion on Cuba St. has a definite skate/surf vibe, with a good selection of streetwear and shoes. Vans and Converse in every color and style at the usual price point, and go-to brands like All About Eve and American Apparel. The staff are friendly and fun. Not just a shop for the boarders.
- 49It'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.
- 53Dreaming of olive military jackets, steel-toe boots, or badges and pins to toughen up your look for Halloween? How about some outdoor gear for your next tramping expedition? Comrades Army Surplus on Cuba St. is always good for a browse, and the $10-or-less sale rack outside is always tempting.
Caro D.'s
Where to Look Twee
- 12Matchbox StudiosTe AroLooking 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).
- 26Rag Mama Rag VintageTe AroThis is my favorite new find. I shouldn’t even call it a new find, as I’ve passed Rag Mama Rag dozens of times while cruising up Cuba St. Almost every time I passed, I would tell whomever I’m with that I’d been meaning to go in for ages. Finally last week a beautiful brooch in the shape of a pair of spectacles beckoned to me, and I made it inside the door. From gorgeous dresses and capes, well-aged pocketbooks, and belts up front, to a full repair shop for your worst holes in your wools and trousers in the back, Rag Mama Rag is a vintage-lover’s dream. I left with the brooch, a perfectly worn stamped leather belt, and a promise to come back with all the pieces from my wardrobe I’ve been meaning to get fixed for ages.
- 37Madame Fancy PantsTe AroLooking for something adorable? Pop into Madame Fancy Pants for a few sweet little hair clips, whimsical animal figurines, or the latest issue of Extra Curricular. Go for their trinkets, but don’t overlook the leather bags and well-constructed clothes.
- 48SwonderfulTe AroA haven of unique trinkets and treasures, Swonderful on Cuba St. is the perfect place to pick up a new candle, necklace, or cardigan. With inviting window displays and faux topiaries, go in for the atmosphere– but just try to leave without purchasing a tooth charm necklace.
- 52With bright pops of color, meticulously dressed cabinets chock full of necklaces and brooches, and a cuter-than-anything corner of baby stuff, Wanda Harland Design Store stands out amongst the op shops and international grocery stores on Jackson St. Look out for a bunny-shaped night light, cat garland wall decal, and a great variety of Thunderpants.