Your guide to winter in Wellington

Fancy footwork will be on display across two sporting codes this season. Sky Stadium hosts football and rugby, so gather your friends together to practice your rowdy chants. In a New Zealand exclusive, Wrexham AFC face off with Wellington’s own Phoenix. It’s the first time the beloved Welsh football club is heading down under. They’ll bring that famed star quality to the game on 19 July. More international visitors appear on the Sky Stadium pitch on 12 July courtesy of New Zealand Rugby. In a highly anticipated double-header, the Black Ferns face Australia in the O’Reilly Cup while the All Blacks take on old foes France. Two months later, on 13 September, the All Blacks face off against South Africa in The Rugby Championship. All games promise world-class action. 

From the sports arena to the food world, August is a huge month for foodies. Visa Wellington On a Plate is an annual food festival and one of the largest in the southern hemisphere. Throughout the month themed events and pop-up restaurants will occur around the city. Watch out for over 200 burger creations as chefs compete for best burger. August also hosts an epic beer extravaganza. Beervana takes over the massive concourse inside Sky Stadium on 22 and 23 August. With more than 300 tasty brews available, you’ll be spoilt for choice. It’s not just the golden-brown liquid on offer. A wide variety of food stalls and live performances are around the concourse to keep you buzzing. 

Gimme, gimme, gimme a night of song and dance in the city. There’s no better way to warm up your winter than a dose of Mamma Mia. The stage musical is based on the songs of 70s Swedish supergroup ABBA. The ultimate feel-good show plays the St James Theatre from 14 to 31 August. After the show, head to one of Wellington’s cocktail bars. There are plenty dotted through the city. Some, like Dragonfly and Library Bar, are near the performance venues on Courtenay Place. Others, like Havana Bar and Elixir, are found down side streets and alleys. 

From the stars of the ‘70s to the stars of the big screen. The capital is a film lover’s dream destination. Not only does it have a thriving movie industry, it’s home to many independent cinemas. From grand old lady The Embassy with its 820 seats, to the intimate comfy couches of Light House Cinema — your screen time is sure to be stylish. Sit back in a plush chair away from the cold, and let the storytelling begin.