On this page 6 sections
What makes a good first date
Keep it public, easy and short enough that it can end politely, with the option to keep going if it's going well. In Wellington, it's also worth having an indoor option ready in case the wind picks up.
In the city
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Coffee on Cuba Street
Wellington takes its coffee seriously, and Cuba Street is the heart of it. Meet for a flat white, then browse the bookshops and vintage stores.
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The waterfront to Oriental Bay
Walk the waterfront from the city to Oriental Bay, with the harbour on one side. On a calm day it's one of the nicest walks in the country.
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Te Papa
The national museum has plenty to talk about, from natural history to art to Māori and Pacific taonga. Easy to spend an hour or a whole afternoon.
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The cable car and Botanic Garden
Ride the cable car up from Lambton Quay, take in the view, then wander down through the Botanic Garden. It's an outing without much effort.
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Embassy Theatre
A grand old cinema at the end of Courtenay Place. Pair a film with a drink beforehand so you get some time to talk.
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A craft beer bar
Around the city on Google Maps
Wellington is known for its craft beer scene. A tasting paddle gives you something to talk about, and there are plenty of good spots to choose from.
Get outside
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Mount Victoria / Matairangi lookout
Walk or drive up for a view over the city and harbour. The walking tracks through the town belt are a good excuse for a longer chat.
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Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne
An ecosanctuary close to the city, full of native birds. The guided night tours, where you might spot kiwi, make a memorable date.
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Matiu / Somes Island
Wellington Harbour on Google Maps
A short ferry ride to a predator-free island in the harbour. Take a picnic and walk the loop track.
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Red Rocks coastal walk
A rugged coastal walk on the south coast. Fur seals often rest along this coast in the cooler months. Check the weather first, as it's exposed.
Something different
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Wētā Workshop in Miramar
See props and creatures from the films made here. A good pick if you're both into movies.
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The night market
Street food from all over the world in the middle of the city. Share a few dishes and walk while you eat. Check the times before you go.
Tips for dating in Wellington
- Meet in the middle. Coming from the Hutt, Porirua or the other side of town? Matcha's meet in the middle planner suggests a café, bar or restaurant about halfway between you, open when you want to go, without either of you sharing where you live.
- Check the wind, not just the rain. A walk that's lovely on a calm day can be hard work in a southerly.
- Keep a café in your back pocket near wherever you're meeting, so a change in weather doesn't end the date.
- Walk where you can. The central city is small, and walking between places gives you more time to talk.
Common questions
What's a good free first date in Wellington?
Try the waterfront to Oriental Bay, Mount Victoria / Matairangi lookout or Red Rocks coastal walk. They cost nothing, so add a coffee or an ice cream and you've got an easy first date.
What can you do on a rainy first date in Wellington?
Try Te Papa, Embassy Theatre or Wētā Workshop in Miramar. They work whatever the weather.
Where can you go for an evening first date in Wellington?
For an evening date, try the night market.
How do you pick a first date spot halfway between you in Wellington?
Use Meet in the middle in Matcha. Choose coffee, drinks or food and a time, and it suggests a café, bar or restaurant about halfway between you, without either of you sharing where you live.