There’s something rebellious about trading one season for its opposite. I left London’s golden summer and flew thousands of miles into the crisp heart of a New Zealand winter. While my friends back home are in linen and sandals, I am layering in cashmere, and honestly? It feels like the perfect reset.
In 2025, I unexpectedly went through daily intensive cancer treatment. So, to be in remission and on the other side, quite literally, and enjoying life at a slower, cosy pace is truly wonderful.
Wellington in winter has this moody, creative energy that London does too, but with a wild, windswept edge that’s uniquely its own. The light is softer, the coffee is stronger, and the city feels like it’s entirely yours.
Cuba Street is where I often end up. This bohemian artery is Wellington’s creative heartbeat. Full of street art, music instrument shops, vintage boutiques, and record stores. In winter, the pedestrian mall glows with warm lights from the cafés, and the famous bucket fountain somehow still delights everyone who walks past.
It’s the perfect place to wander while ducking into cosy spots whenever the wind picks up.
Floriditas (at 161 Cuba Street) is where I tuck myself away. This grand café restaurant with high ceilings and dark wood has the charm of a European brasserie.
Their seasonal European New Zealand cooking is exactly what you want on a chilly winter day. Perfect brunch, excellent coffee, and in the evenings, beautiful dinners with local wine. It’s elegant without being stuffy. The kind of place where you linger over a flat white and watch the city go by. Highly recommend the avocado toast or whatever is in season.
Other spots I love are:
•Loretta (just down from Floriditas) a fun, Mediterranean inspired “little sister” with generous plates, natural wine, and a lively atmosphere. Perfect for dinner.
•Old Bank Arcade. This is a beautiful heritage building turned shopping destination with lovely boutiques and a refined, editorial feel.
•The Tannery (if you venture to Christchurch) or Wellington’s own hidden gems like Ghuznee Street for emerging designers and creative studios.
•Midnight Espresso or Fidel’s for that late-night Cuba Street energy when you just need another excellent flat white.
Do you have a favourite Wellington (or NZ) spot I should add to my list? I’d love to hear your recommendations.
Images:
Sea: @emergingaesthetic
Floridas cafe & Restaurant: @floriditas
Old Bank Building portrait: @Brendangrantnz
Leave a Reply