Your guide to autumn in Wellington

Artworks from classic stories and films spanning 100 years of Walt Disney Animation Studios are on show at Tākina. ‘Disney: The Magic of Animation’ runs until 13 July and showcases over 600 artworks from the Walt Disney Animation Research Library. Across the road from Tākina, Te Papa hosts the global premiere of ‘Vivienne Westwood & Jewellery’. The exhibition contains an impressive collection of over 500 archival and runway pieces from the British fashion brand’s bold and rebellious designs.

Those looking for a party atmosphere have two big weekends to look forward to. Jim Beam Homegrown is New Zealand’s biggest celebration of Kiwi music. Five stages along Wellington’s waterfront play reggae, hip-hop, rock, electronic, drum and bass, and more. For the first time in 18 years, it’s extended to two epic days over 14 and 15 March. Two weeks later, the inner city will again reverberate to music from multiple stages. CubaDupa brings a carnival atmosphere to Cuba Street. The lineup includes over 140 local and international acts, including music, street theatre, dance, and acrobats. 

For entertainment indoors this autumn, you have plenty of options. Kia Mau provides two weeks of dance, theatre, music, and visual art. It celebrates Tāngata Whenua, Tāngata Moana, and global Indigenous performance. There are over 130 films and video works at the Māoriland Film Festival in Otaki. It’s the largest Indigenous film festival in the world and runs 26 to 30 March. The New Zealand International Comedy Festival with Best Foods Mayo is set to run from 2 to 25 May. Over 100 comedians are coming from New Zealand and further afield. They all have the same express purpose — to make you laugh.

Before your film, comedy gig, or performance, you’ll want some kai . Check out one of the city’s long-lasting restaurants. There’s a reason why they’ve stood the test of time. Award-winning eatery Capitol has been on Kent Terrace since 2002. Its versatile menu always offers an amazing balance of flavours. Hummingbird on Courtenay Place and Logan Brown on Cuba Street have been around for more than 20 years as well. Opened in 1991, Boulcott Street Bistro is widely regarded as one of Wellington’s finest restaurants. It serves classic bistro dishes with modern twists. Some dishes have been consistently popular since day one.

On 26 and 27 April, the hills and trails around Wellington provide an epic adventure ground for athletes. Faultline Ultra serves up an endurance challenge for mountain bikers and runners across six possible routes. Wellington’s soaring peaks, rugged ridge lines, and bush-clad hills will be shown off to stunning effect. Speaking of ridge lines, Mount Kaukau is a walking trail ripe for exploring over autumn. The three-hour walk begins in Khandallah and offers a vantage point 445m above sea level.