WellingtonEvents
A person on stage with a microphone reads a book to a packed audience at the Verb Readers and Writers Festival in Wellington.

Word on the street is — the festival celebrating the written word is back, and it’s better than ever.

Welcome in spring with a literary bonanza at Wellington’s iconic readers and writers’ festival. Verb has supported and nurtured Wellington’s arts community since its founding, and its annual festival has become a highlight of the literary calendar. Over three days, writers from across Aotearoa and several from around the world will share their ideas and stories with curious readers. Verb 2026 will be jam-packed with writers’ talks, workshops and panel discussions. 

Taking place from 25 to 27 September, Verb is a celebration of the written word and the community that surrounds it. See their website for a full list of the festival and special events.  

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Two people browse through books outside Pegasus Books in Left Bank off Cuba Street. Pegasus Books is an older wooden building with shelves of eclectic books outside.

Wellington’s independent bookstores

Welcome to bookworm heaven. From secondhand treasures to the newest releases, there’s a book for everyone at these boutique bookshops in Wellington.

Interior of Hummingbird restaurant in Wellington, with guests seated at a green-tiled bar while a staff member prepares drinks behind the counter, shelves of bottles and glassware illuminated by warm, ambient lighting.

Capital classics: Long-lasting restaurants

Wellington is fortunate to have a batch of fantastic restaurants that have stood the test of time.

Two people look at the art on display at Te Whanganui a Tara exhibition, Wellington Museum.

What to do on a rainy day in Wellington

When it’s wet outside, Wellington provides plenty of indoor activities to keep you occupied. Head to these attractions to stay warm, dry, and entertained.

A vinyl record player with a pair of headphones laying on top at Xreeps Record Parlour, a record store in Petone, Lower Hutt, New Zealand.

For the record: Where to buy vinyl in Wellington

Help keep independent music alive with this list of where to get your wax or find your favourite artists.

People seated at a bar, holding drinks and talking with a bartender, with records displayed on the wall behind.

New and notable places in Wellington

Treat your tastebuds and find a new place to eat at one of these new cafés, restaurants, and bars in Wellington.

Two people enjoy a flight of coffee at The Hangar.

Your essential guide to coffee

Wellington takes its coffee seriously. Whether you’re after a creamy flat white, a jet-fuelled long black, or something in between, there are plenty of places to keep you caffeinated.

A croissant is picked up with a pair of tongs by a baker wearing a yellow teeshirt and dark grey apron.

Your knead to know list of Wellington bakeries

Rise and shine for your daily dose of carbs at these Wellington bakeries. From doughnuts and croissants to loaves of bread, the proof here is in the pastry.

Two customers clink their wine glasses and enjoy their food at Graze Wine bar.

Wine not? A full-bodied list of Wellington wine bars

Part of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail, Wellington is the perfect place to sample a local drop (or two).

A person holds a tool applying smoke to the top of a pint of red and yellow beer at Beervana 2023, a beer and food festival in Wellington New Zealand.

Beervana

21 – 22 August 2026Hnry Stadium

Festival attendees gather outside of St James Theatre with the Aotearoa New Zealand Arts Festival displayed on the marquee.

Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts

February to March 2028