Flake news: A guide to Wellington’s pies

You’ll spot office workers in suits and tradies in high-vis all tucking into this flaky baked good. Try Puku Pies & Kai for classics like mince and cheese or bacon and egg. Check out one of four spots, including one in the central city on Grey Street. The three size variations satisfy a range of hunger levels. To reduce waste uneaten pies are shared with those who need them most. It’s clear manaakitanga is a core value at this Māori-owned and operated bakery. 

Hidden down a short alleyway off Victoria Street, Salut Pies has built a cult following with its experimental fillings. Bakers Joe and Carey Player change the flavours depending on what is available. But you can expect each pie to be hand-shaped and baked in small batches. You’ll find gourmet flavours like eggs Montréal (egg, smoked salmon, spinach, and hollandaise) or Gochujang Pork Belly. Large colourful wall art and a few tables and stools are dotted around to make your quick bite even more enjoyable. Don’t leave your pooch behind at the office, because this is a dog-friendly spot. 

You can’t miss the replicas of baked goods covering the exterior of Johnsonville’s Nada Bakery. Inside these small walls is an award-winning steak and cheese pie. Bite through the flaky shell and you’ll hit slow-cooked beef steak and rich cheese. The family business has served Wellington from several locations since 1975. Suburban bakery Jo’s Pies has Brooklyn tradies and remote workers flock to get their lunchtime fix. This is usually The Homeboy pie (steak, cheese and hash brown).

Pies aren’t just for eating on the go. Sometimes they deserve a knife and fork. At Sixes & Sevens, take in the pink and teal decor as you sit down to a pastry on a plate. Despite a doughnut cult following, the café also serves great pies. Order the popular Japanese beef curry pie or go for a classic like mince and cheese, all made in its nearby kitchen. 

Experience Wellington’s take on a New York delicatessen at Lombard Lane’s Pickle & Pie. Co-owner Mia Freeman said the ‘pie’ part of the name refers to the sweet American pies it serves. But Kiwi demand meant the owners added savoury pies to the menu. Enjoy your pie with handmade pickles on the side and opt for the cauliflower pie if you’re veggie. Sit in a space with soaring angular ceilings or soak up the sun in the north-facing outdoor area. 

Try fan favourite salmon and brie pie at Aro Valley’s Arobake. This bakery with Swiss roots has been baking up a storm since 1989. Come to Shelly Bay Baker before midday to get a classic pie before they sell out. Bring your dog, grab a blanket from the pile inside, and cosy up.

Experience Brazilian hospitality at French bakery and patisserie Uncle Leo’s. Owners Leandro Jose da Silva and Leticia Timal welcome customers like dear friends. Step into the Evan’s Bay café, check out what’s on offer in the cabinet, and take a seat. The brisket and onion pie and potato-topped pie are customer favourites. Leandro and his team make everything in-house and don’t skimp on butter. On a balmy day, head for a dip at Hataitai Beach after (just give your stomach time to settle first). 

Try the chilli beef pie at Island Bay’s The Blue Belle Café; expect beef slow-cooked in-house for four hours. This offers a wide range of veggie pies too, from pumpkin to creamy mushroom. Find this café and hole-in-the-wall bakery Patrisha’s Pies on The Parade. The latter has signage that looks unchanged for decades and only adds to its charm. Inside, you can expect to find pies with fillings like macaroni cheese and bacon, or steak, cheese, and jalapeño. It's also home to a highly praised gluten-free pie. Grab yours before heading for a seaside stroll. 

Whether an artisan spot or classic bakery takes your fancy, remember the most important rule: “Always blow on the pie”.