Caro D.'s
Best Flirty Skirts
- 19It'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.
- 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.
- 32Glassons Lambton QuayWellington CentralThe epitome of where to go for girls’ wardrobe basics in New Zealand, Glassons is a go-to for everyday skirts, tops, and jerseys at a price that won’t empty your wallet. With plenty of sales going and heaps of brights and blacks to suit you, it’s easier than you’d think to find your next staple piece here.
- 43Superette WellingtonTe AroSuperette, originally based in Auckland with a great store open here in Wellington, is a sartorialist's dream. The shop is impeccably tailored, with pops of bright colors amongst the more traditionally dark Wellingtonian palette. Go-to brands like Mad Love and I Love Ugly find a home here alongside Ksubi frames and high top Vans, while a floor-to-ceiling mirror at the back allows for ample twirling space to admire your new finds. With a friendly and helpful staff who seem to genuinely enjoy what they do and an incredible selection of clothes and accessories for both women and men, I find it completely impossible to leave this store empty handed.
- 54St. 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.
Caro D.'s
Best Beer Selection
- 16CrumpetTe 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.
- 211MalthouseTe AroPick a beer, any beer, and I bet they have it in stock at Malthouse. With six temperature-controlled refrigerators behind the bar and a rotating list that consistently boasts over 150 beers, you'll be hard pressed not to find something you like on their menu. I'm partial to the Garage Project's Aro Noir, one of about 30 brews on tap at Malthouse. Come in on a cool winter's night to fuel up and watch rugby with friends on one of the bar's many big screen TVs. And if beer's not your thing, don't sweat it-- they're known to make a mean vodka soda as well.
- 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.
- 428MontereyNewtownBurger joints aren't all that difficult to spot in Wellington, but finding one with a classic diner twist can be. Monterey tops the list-- any place serving fried pickles in New Zealand immediately screams Americana to me. While you're waiting for your meal, flex your drawing skills on the paper tablecloth while Paul Simon persuades you to call him Al. Try the float, combining any Six Barrel Soda with vanilla bean ice cream. The halloumi burger is a must for any vegetarians (and many non-veges, too, I suspect-- it's that good!), or go with the salad for a healthier version that doesn't leave anything out on taste.
- 512Four Kings Sports BarTe AroI'll admit, I'm not the most dedicated sports fan. But when my home team, the Baltimore Ravens, made it to the Super Bowl this January I had to see them destroy the 49ers. Four Kings provided the perfect arena (hehe) for witnessing this showdown. Serving up cold Budweisers and miles of big screen TVs locked on ESPN, watching the Super Bowl at Four Kings has been (to my knowledge) the most 'American' thing I've done since moving to New Zealand. Obviously, I know Four Kings isn't just a good place to watch all the American games you can't manage to stream online from the comfort and secrecy of your home, but it sure did the trick for me.
Caro D.'s
Where to Grab Cocktails
- 132Chow ToryTe AroChow is always a solid bet for a date night. With shared plates and yummy cocktails, Chow is there to hand out a ready-made atmosphere for those nights when you just want a bit of romance with your significant other. The Beggars Purse and Korean Kim Chi Gyoza are tried and true favorites, and the Jungle Curry is nice if you're craving something a bit more substantial. As for cocktails, you won't go wrong with the Fun Fun Fooey or Feng Shui Lemonade. Of course, Chow isn't just for the romantically inclined. With a kitchen that stays open til midnight every night and a prime location on Tory Street, Chow will also be there for you if you're in desperate need of a late night snack between catching the show and dancing at Puppies. Don't forget that plates are 2 for 1 on Mondays and cocktails are 2 for 1 on Wednesday and Saturday!
- 219Go for cocktails with friends or a quiet cup of tea. With a noisy main room (a jazz band was playing when I left) and plenty of small hideaways to tuck yourself into, The Library suits multiple moods. My significant other and I shared desserts in a quiet alcove (which we shared with a bathtub!) The portions are small but the taste is big, and with a great two-for-one deal on Tuesday nights, worth it. Try the warm chocolate fondant or the earl grey creme brulee. The wait staff bumbled a bit, and the decor tries slightly too hard to make you feel cosy, but on a cold winter night any small nitpicks can be quickly brushed aside with a toasty hot chocolate.
- 38Boogie Wonderland WellingtonWellington CentralOne of my most favorite kiwi phrases has to be the question, "Are you keen for a boogie?" At Boogie Wonderland, you certainly will be. Located on Courtenay Place just next to Paramount Cinema, this club is dated-- in the best way. Boogie boasts at least seven disco balls, playing a constant stream of 70's music. While Boogie won't become a regular haunt for me, it is certainly reliable, and a lot of fun.
- 415La Boca LocaMiramarLa Boca Loca is worth the trip to Miramar. If you’re planning a movie night at the Roxy, please don’t leave without dinner at La Boca Loca. To start, say yes to the chips and salsa. When I went, it seemed like every single person came right over after the film let out at the Roxy. Between a bit of a wait for food and extremely tempting margaritas, you’ll want something to pad your tummy before the entrees arrive. Try the burritos or tacos– both come in yummy vegetarian options.
- 520One of the coolest setups for a restaurant in Wellington, much of the restaurant is actually located a floor below shop level on Cuba St. Step across a bridge of lights to request a table downstairs. The food is excellent and atmosphere is lively, even on the rainiest of nights. Start off with a pitcher of strawberry margaritas. Try the chilli con queso entree and fajitas vegetariana, loaded with well-spiced green beans, capsicum, carrot, and courgettes peppered with pumpkin seeds and spring onion in the softest tortillas. Great date spot.
Caro D.'s
Best Lunch Deals
- 11Ara SushiPetoneAra 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.
- 228Tommy MillionsWellington CentralWith no food in my fridge after a long trip to Australia, I found myself hungry and tired on Courtenay Place a little past lunch time until something caught my eye. 2 for 1 margherita slices for $5? Within minutes, my belly was full of yummy pizza (topped with oregano and chilli flakes and dipped in chilli oil) and a classically American--and extremely rare--can of A&W cream soda. I don't know why I'd waited so long to test out the hype I'd been hearing about Tommy Millions. With crazy lunch deals every weekday, night owl hours, and plenty of room to park your bum along Courtenay Place or in Te Aro Park, you have no excuse to wait as long as I did.
- 39Satay Kingdom CafeTe AroSatay Kingdom delivers exactly what it promises: yummy food without dipping into your rent money. Go for the Roti Chanai-- for $6.50 you'll get a bowl filled with veggies and enough broth to dip your tall stack of roti to your heart's content. The location on Cuba St.'s Left Bank makes Satay Kingdom a great stop to refuel during a day of op shopping or before catching a show at Mighty Mighty.
- 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.
- 52Cafe Roti ChenaiTe AroWell-plated South Indian Malaysian cuisine in a cosy atmosphere, Roti Chenai is one of the best places to bring your mates for dinner in Wellington. With vegetarian and carnivorous options, everyone in the group will leave feeling warm and full. Try the vegetable korma (tomato-based, not creamy like most other places in New Zealand!) when you’re in the mood for Indian, or the vegetable murtabak with dhall curry if you’re craving Malaysian.
Caro D.'s
'Wear' to Find Wool
- 16Rag 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.
- 24St. 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.
- 34Emporium WellingtonTe AroEmporium Vintage is a hidden gem for scoring great kicks in Wellington, with an array of vintage boots for both women and men in a variety of sizes, colors, and styles. While Emporium may be known for its stateside finds and epic dress collection, their Americana vibe extends to an entire wall of leather boots. Don't usually buy vintage footwear? Rest assured that Emporium won't leave you high and dry if your perfectly broken in shoes give out post-purchase. They'll work with a cobbler around the corner to make sure your shoes are back to their best in no time.
- 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.
- 57One of the most proper vintage shops in Wellington, Ziggurat is stocked with true vintage and designer pieces from the 1900s to contemporary labels. The price point reflects this, so my visits are appropriately sparing if I ever want the chance to leave home in my glamorous finds.
Caro D.'s
Best Dresses
- 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.
- 24Emporium WellingtonTe AroEmporium Vintage is a hidden gem for scoring great kicks in Wellington, with an array of vintage boots for both women and men in a variety of sizes, colors, and styles. While Emporium may be known for its stateside finds and epic dress collection, their Americana vibe extends to an entire wall of leather boots. Don't usually buy vintage footwear? Rest assured that Emporium won't leave you high and dry if your perfectly broken in shoes give out post-purchase. They'll work with a cobbler around the corner to make sure your shoes are back to their best in no time.
- 36Rag 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.
- 47One of the most proper vintage shops in Wellington, Ziggurat is stocked with true vintage and designer pieces from the 1900s to contemporary labels. The price point reflects this, so my visits are appropriately sparing if I ever want the chance to leave home in my glamorous finds.
- 51The Goodscore Retro RoomTe AroThe Goodscore Retro Room once existed as a proper op shop at 311 Willis St., but the owners have recently converted the space into a beautiful wedding dress boutique, opting to store their vintage finds upstairs until monthly vintage sales held in the courtyard at the back of the building. Check out their stock online, or come out on the first Saturday of next month for their collection of unique necklaces, sweet cardigans, and pretty dresses.