Wellington’s autumnal treats
GOLDEN LEAVES AT THE BOTANIC GARDEN
Autumn is a lovely time to visit the Wellington Botanic Garden ki Paekākā and see deciduous trees turning from green to gold. The garden covers 25 hectares of land near central Wellington and features protected native forest, conifers, plant collections, and seasonal displays. If the weather is a little nippy, you can escape into Begonia House, a warm and tranquil Victorian inspired conservatory, or pop into Picnic Cafe, which overlooks the Lady Norwood Rose Garden and serves up delicious lunches.
WINE TASTING IN MARTINBOROUGH
Martinborough’s grapes are being harvested and turned into award-winning wine in autumn. It’s an exciting time to soak up the idyllic atmosphere and sample the last of the summer wine. The best way to explore Martinborough is on two wheels, and local hire company Green Jersey’s got a bike, tandem, or rickshaw with your name on it. If you want to buy a few bottles to take home, no problem, the Green Jersey team will pick up the wine for you to collect when you’re done.
EAT DRINK PLAY FESTIVAL
Eat Drink Play challenges Wellington venues to take hospitality to the next level, with food and entertainment that would fit right in on the world stage. The multi-venue event puts a spotlight on local beverages, culinary delights, talented performers, top tier accommodation, and the city’s nightlife. It brings together expert chefs, bartenders, baristas, hoteliers, musicians, winemakers, craft brewers, artists, and bakers to share what they do best.
6–29 May, eatdrinkplay.co.nz
TE WAI NGUNGURU
An immersive 3D installation by Lisa Reihana, Te Wai Ngunguru – Nomads of the Sea combines historical fact with speculative fiction. Exhibited at Porirua’s Pātaka Art + Museum, it follows the journey of female convict Charlotte Badger, who made her way to Aotearoa in 1804. Te Wai Ngunguru explores cultural circumstances and where women could find agency at this time, and the contrast between European law and Māori morality.
On now until 3 July, pataka.org.nz
TAKE TO THE TRAILS
Whether you’re up for an amble through native bush, a casual wander with your dog, or an invigorating uphill climb rewarded by epic views, you’ll find all of this and more on Wellington’s regional trails. There are over 200 trails around the region with something for all fitness levels. The Wellington Regional Trails website has guides, maps, and all the information you need to plan your outdoor adventure.
EXPLORE ON HORSEBACK
As if the Kāpiti Coast wasn’t magical enough, there is something truly special about seeing people ride their horses freely along the beach. Just imagine the flick of horse tails and hoof prints in the sand, set against a perfect sunset over Kapiti Island. Te Horo Equestrian can make that a reality for you with their range of trekking experiences to fit your riding ability and confidence. They even offer pony rides for little ones.