Wellington’s boutique cinemas
The capital is a film lover’s dream destination. It has a thriving movie industry, is a UNESCO City of Film, and is home to many independent cinemas. Sit back in a plush chair and view a movie in style.
31 July – 11 August 2024
Screened across four cities, Whānau Mārama: New Zealand International Film Festival (NZIFF) brings global films to local cinemas. A highlight of the winter event calendar, the festival kicks off in Wellington in late July. It then travels to Auckland, Dunedin, and Christchurch through August.
Covering a wide variety of genres and formats, the festival also brings Q&A discussions, panels and a few surprises. Directors and producers from around the world often take to the stage to introduce and speak about their work. This is the biggest event in the New Zealand film-lovers calendar.
With a new artistic director, Paolo Bertolin, in place, 2024’s festival is set to once again bring quality films from international festivals to New Zealand audiences.
NZIFF 2024 will screen in The Embassy, Roxy Cinema and Light House Cinema Cuba in Wellington.
The capital is a film lover’s dream destination. It has a thriving movie industry, is a UNESCO City of Film, and is home to many independent cinemas. Sit back in a plush chair and view a movie in style.
29 June – 27 July 2024
26 September – 13 October 2024TSB Arena
Housed in a prominent heritage building, Salty Pidgin provides bistro food and a local gathering point in Brooklyn Village.
Get your fix of American burger bars at this central Wellington restaurant.
A dark, art-filled corridor off Ghuznee Street leads to a stylish bar you can relax in.
It’s always cosy at Dee’s Place, a neighbourhood whiskey bar hidden underground on Cuba Street.
Standing one block back from Wellington Harbour, Plonk provides an oasis of breezy sophistication to counter the busy road outside.
With a share-style menu inspired by the Mediterranean, Middle East and North Africa, this Mount Victoria charmer is a quality dinner choice.
An intimate bar that dispenses quality cocktail and wine advice, and a curated menu.
17 August 2024The Opera House
Encompassing a restaurant, tasting room, cellar door, distillery, and barrel hall space, The Runholder offers an exquisite hospitality experience in Martinborough.
Made by a talented team of chefs, the dishes at Liberty are full of flavour and made to be shared.
Nestled in Kelburn village, Graze is a sustainably focused wine bar that’s sure to become your new local.
Hot dogs and wine are the combination you didn’t know you needed at this relaxed rooftop bar.