Flight of the Conchords star Bret McKenzie has shared his favourite spots in Wellington, the New Zealand capital he calls home. Known for its wind and creative energy, McKenzie describes the city as ‘incredibly liveable and creatively buzzy’, with wooden homes on hillsides and a pedestrian-friendly layout that makes it easy to get around.
For coffee lovers, McKenzie recommends Prefab Cafe, which a musician friend calls the best breakfast in the world, and Gramercy Bakery in Berhampore, where queues form for sourdough, pastries and coffee. He also highlights Morteza Kebab & Bakery in Newtown for its fresh flatbread and kebabs, and Rita, a set-menu fine diner in Aro Valley housed in a century-old workers’ cottage.
Nature enthusiasts can visit Kaitoke Regional Park for river swimming in spots used in the Lord of the Rings films, or take a day trip to Kapiti Island bird sanctuary to see rare birds like weka. For a calm harbour paddle, Fergs Kayaks offers rentals, while Princess Bay beach provides a magical sunset swim with views of the South Island’s Kaikoura Range.
McKenzie also suggests exploring the Wellington Botanic Garden at night to see glow worms, and heading to the Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve for stargazing. For drinks, he recommends The Ram for tiramisu, Garage Project’s Aro Valley tap room for craft beer, and Hawthorn Lounge for cocktails. The Rogue & Vagabond offers casual gigs, and Bar Next Door is a tiny, intimate spot.
Looking ahead, the Te Ara Tupua scenic coastal pathway linking Wellington and Lower Hutt will open this winter, making cycling or walking between the two cities easier. Events like the Loemis mid-winter arts festival (9–21 June 2026) and the Newtown Festival in early March add to the city’s cultural calendar.
