Hey Travellers, if you're heading to Wellington on 26 Nov 2024 for #SunriseNZ24, we’ve got your back.
We enlisted the help of some of our local experts for their secret spots and all-time favorites to help you dive into Wellington and all it has to offer. Whether you're looking for the best cup of coffee before the event or a chill spot to unwind after a day of inspiration, they’ve shared their top picks (and we’re eternally grateful!). Get ready to eat, sip, and explore your way through Wellington like a true local.
☕ Best Coffee Spots
When it comes to coffee, the people of Wellington are serious. Here are some top picks to fuel your adventures:
Caffe L’affare and Havana Coffee Works
"Too many to list and it’s hard to play favourites with such a high density of coffee shops per capita!” (Ryan McMillan, MD - Atlas Digital)
Customs on Ghuznee and Raglan Roast
“Customs for the fancy stuff, Raglan for unpretentious good value coffee.” (Paloma Group)
Pravda, Nikau and Chocolate Fish Cafe
“I'm a tea drinker but love a cuppa at these places + Choc Fish Cafe do a yum whitebait fritter!” (Brooke Roberts, Co-Founder of Sharesies)
Or, come straight to Sunrise at Shed 6 where Previously Unavailable + Caffeine will be serving up barista made coffee as you walk in the door!
🍳 Top Breakfast Places
Kickstart your day with a delicious breakfast at one of these local gems:
August Eatery
"Grab a smoothie!” (Ryan McMillan, MD - Atlas Digital)
Fred’s
“Great sarnies, and a truly sublime egg sandwich if you get in before 11.30. Decent vegetarian options too.” (Robert Curry, Dino Polo Club)
Prefab
“This place is a staple” (Brooke Roberts, Co-Founder of Sharesies)
The Beach House and Kiosk
“If you want to get away from the conference bustle head here followed by a walk at Red Rocks.” (Paloma Group)
🤝 Meeting Spots
Take a walking meeting!
“Take a walking meeting around the waterfront, find each other in front of Te Papa.” (Ryan McMillan, MD - Atlas Digital)
Waitoa Victoria Street
“Meet here for a local brew and yum Malaysian kai.” (Brooke Roberts, Co-Founder of Sharesies)
🌳 Must-Visit Landmarks
No trip to Wellington is complete without checking out these local favs:
Zealandia
“If you’re in need of some nature, this place is an incredible inner city sanctuary, plus they have a free shuttle that leaves from Wakefield Street.” (Ryan McMillan, MD - Atlas Digital)
Lambton Quay
“If you’re short on time, take the cable car from Lambton Quay for some amazing views of the harbour.” (Ryan McMillan, MD - Atlas Digital)
Stroll along Lyall Bay
(Brooke Roberts, Co-Founder of Sharesies)
Mt Vic Lookout
“Go for a short hike up Hobbits Hideaway & head up to the Mt Vic Lookout for panoramic views of the city.” (Paloma Group)
🎨 Local Experiences
Wellington is full of unique experiences, here’s a couple you don’t want to miss:
Te Papa
“This is an essential stop for a dose of Aotearoa’s history, especially the Gallipoli exhibit.” (Ryan McMillan, MD - Atlas Digital)
Jhana Millers Gallery
(Brooke Roberts, Co-Founder of Sharesies)
Get your 10,000 steps in
“If you need your ten thousand steps, walk from the Beehive all the way along the waterfront to Oriental Bay.” (Ryan McMillan, MD - Atlas Digital)
Cuba Street (and Unity Books!)
(Paloma Group)
🍿 Night Before Sunrise
On Monday 25th November from 5-7.30pm - why not catch the Startup Movie Night at Te Papa Museum, featuring documentaries on the founding journeys of Canva and SafetyCulture. Followed by a live Q&A and networking drinks and nibbles with fellow attendees. Thanks to the support of WellingtonNZ. Use code SUNRISE for 50% off your ticket here.
🍷 Evening Hangouts
After a day of exploring, unwind at one of these great spots:
Rogue and Vagabond
“Now that daylight savings time has come around, and if the weather is good, a drink on the lawn in front of Rogue and Vagabond (18 Garrett Street) is a great way to relax with a group, or on your own with a book if you need to recharge your social battery.” (Ryan McMillan, MD - Atlas Digital)
Puffin Wine Bar
“This is a sweet spot for small crews to go and connect.” (Brooke Roberts, Co-Founder of Sharesies)
Crumpet and Meow
“Crumpet for cocktails or try and catch some live music at Meow - a Wellington institution!” (Paloma Group)
🍽️ Best Dinner Spots
Indulge in Wellington’s best food at these top dinner spots:
The Ram on Cuba
“This place has a traditional bistro vibe with cosy booths and a great wine list.” (Ryan McMillan, MD - Atlas Digital)
Jinweide Chinese Noodle House
“For a big group, this place is excellent.” (Ryan McMillan, MD - Atlas Digital)
Highwater
“Thoughtful cuisine paired with great service and an excellent venue.” (Robert Curry, Dino Polo Club)
Rita
“A gem!” (Brooke Roberts, Co-Founder of Sharesies)
KK Malaysia or Waitoa
“Serves Little Penang for more chill, cheaper and casual vibe” (Brooke Roberts, Co-Founder of Sharesies)
Golding’s Free Dive
“One of the best craft beer bars in the city, plus you can order pizza from nearby Pomodoro and enjoy the Star Wars decor.” (Robert Curry, Dino Polo Club)
Ortega
“If you’re feeling fancy!” (Paloma Group)
KC Cafe
“For any other time - IYKYK” (Paloma Group)
🗺️ Hidden Gems
Looking for something off the beaten path? Check out these lesser-known spots:
Taste of Home
“A tiny hole in the wall, this place is possibly the best noodle spot in Wellington.” (Ryan McMillan, MD - Atlas Digital)
Hataitai village
“Good gluten free cafe and restaurant along with Waitoa” (Brooke Roberts, Co-Founder of Sharesies)
Harbour diving board
“If you need to de-stress with some cold water immersion, pack your swimmers and head here for a plunge.” (Ryan McMillan, MD - Atlas Digital)
Space Studio Yoga in Mt Vic
(Paloma Group)
🚌 Transport Tips
Thanks to the local expertise of all our contributors, we’ve got a few goodies to make your time in Wellington as easy as possible”
- Walking is a great way to get around the city - don’t forget to pack your sneakers.
- There’s an airport bus which is great if you’re on your own - it takes paywave too!
- Once you’re in town, a Snapper card is great for using public transport.
See you at #SunriseNZ24!