Your Wellington summer gig guide

There’s something for everyone this summer, with a huge lineup of concerts and gigs throughout the season and beyond. From fun outdoor venues to epic indoor shows, Wellington’s event calendar is packed with all your faves. Fire up the group chat, book the tickets, and get planning.

If you’re looking to groove in a garden, kick off summer at On A Good Day. The capital’s newest music series takes place in the serene setting of Anderson Park, in Wellington Botanic Garden. Beginning on Thursday 30 November, the three-night series kicks off with internationally acclaimed Irish singer-songwriter Dermot Kennedy. Night two brings indie-rock band The War On Drugs. The series ends on Saturday night with Matt Corby and Allen Stone.

At the end of January, Sky Stadium will be brought to life with the legendary sounds of Foo Fighters. With tracks from across their career as well as their latest album ‘But Here We Are’, it will be an epic night of rock music.

Performing on the opening weekend of the biennial Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts is The National. Performing for the first time in Wellington, “the world’s most influential band” (The Guardian) will take the stage at TSB Arena in late February.

Send off the season with a celebration of local talent at Jim Beam Homegrown. Set to be Kiwi music’s biggest party, the one-day festival takes place on Wellington’s waterfront. With over 45 artists, five stages, carnival rides, and delicious food, it’s a guaranteed good time.

Where to stay

You’ve got the tickets, now you need the digs. Wellington’s got accommodation aplenty, with everything from apartment-style to boutique rooms.

Serving up views with a side of chocolate is Movenpick Hotel. Perched on one of the capital’s hills overlooking the city, it’s a handy location for a variety of events. And the daily chocolate hour is sure to give you the energy for whatever your evening has in store.

If you’re looking to up your Instagram game while you’re in town, step into one of Naumi’s two central city properties. From the colourful lobby, sparkly lift, and design-led rooms, you’re sure to find a beautiful photo opportunity and a comfortable place to stay.

The newest kid on the block is The Cobbler Hotel. With apartment-style rooms, each equipped with a full kitchen, it’s a good spot to gather the gang for a fun weekend. Tucked into Hannah’s Laneway, it’s also centrally located to the waterfront or the city’s venues, as well as plenty of dining and drinking options.

Where to eat

Looking to fuel your weekend? Gig-goers are spoilt for choice with places to eat ahead of any show in Wellington.

Start your day in style and with plenty of caffeine at one of the city’s cafes. Cuba Street has many options, but if you’re looking to get amongst some greenery, try Olive. The stylish spot has a covered courtyard filled with plants and trees. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the food is a mixture of traditional and contemporary.

If you’re looking for something equally hearty and delicious for lunch, a classic sando is always a good choice. Fred’s is one of the city’s favourite spots for a sammie. With fresh bread, weekly specials, and fun flavours, these sandwiches are anything but boring.

Get yourself into the music zone with a pre-gig pizza and pint at Humdinger. The heavy-metal themed bar has a jukebox for you to select your favourite tracks, and plenty of cocktails to choose from (as well as beer and wine).

The whole gang can get dinner at Mr Go’s. The pan-Asian restaurant’s laneway location has an all-weather outside dining area, and space for big groups. Sharing plates means you can get a taste of everything, and fuel up for the evening ahead.

Debrief after the gig at your craft beer bar of choice. The city’s newest taproom is Mean Doses. Upstairs on Tory Street, you’ll find taps pouring the team’s classic brews, and some arcade games and pinball. With casual bar snacks from Mabel’s downstairs, it’s a fun spot to end your evening.