🐝 WellyBuzz 14 Feb – What’s On in Wellington This Weekend (Valentine's Edition!)

February 14, 2025

Good morning Wellington! 💝

Happy Valentine's Day beautiful people! Whether you're celebrating love with a special someone, gathering with friends, or treating yourself to some self-care, we've got your weekend sorted. Plus, with this gorgeous summer weather, Wellington's really showing the love!

☕ Grab your morning coffee, and let's dive into this love-filled edition! 🐝

🔥 In This Week's Buzz:

✅ Time Machine: Cuba St from Yesteryear 💌
✅ Local Legends: Two Heart-Warming Wellington Businesses 🏪
✅ Extra Sprinkles: Spreading Love Through Local Charity 💝
✅ Events: Romance, Fun & Adventure This Weekend! 🎭
✅ Weather: Spoiler — Love is in the air (and so is sunshine)! ☀️

🕰️ Time Machine: Cuba Street's Love Affair with Wellington! 💝

Hey Welly history lovers! This Valentine's Day, we're diving into the romantic past of our beloved Cuba Street - and trust us, it's got stories to tell!

Did you know our favorite street got its name from the settler ship 'Cuba' that sailed into the harbour way back in 1840? By the 1890s, Cuba Street was absolutely buzzing - imagine horse-drawn carriages instead of cars, and dapper Wellingtonians shopping at the famous Te Aro House!

Speaking of Te Aro House - in 1866, a savvy businessman named James Smith opened this amazing drapery store at the corner of Cuba and Dixon Streets. If you were anyone who was anyone in Wellington, this was the place to shop! (Next time you're at the intersection, imagine all the Victorian-era fashionistas who walked those same streets! 👗)

Over time, those charming wooden buildings made way for fancy brick ones - many of which you can still spot today! Next time you're grabbing a coffee or browsing the boutiques with your Valentine, look up at those historic facades. You're walking the same streets as generations of Wellington sweethearts before you! 💕

🌟 Local Legends: Wellington's Hidden Gems

🍫 Wellington Chocolate Factory - Sweet Love in Action! (5 Eva Street, Te Aro)

More than just a chocolate maker, this ethical bean-to-bar factory has been spreading joy since 2013. Founders Gabe and Rochelle have created a space where sustainability meets indulgence. Every bar tells a story – from their direct relationships with cacao farmers to their stunning wrapper designs by local artists. Pop in for their famous hot chocolate or join a factory tour to see how the magic happens.

💐 Flowers Manuela - Where Blooms Tell Stories (126 Cuba Street)

For 25 years, Manuela has been creating floral magic from her tiny Cuba Street shop. This isn't just a florist – it's a community hub where every bouquet comes with a story and often a cup of tea. Manuela specializes in sustainable, locally-grown flowers and runs monthly workshops teaching everything from basic bouquet-making to ikebana.

💝 Extra Sprinkles: Compassion Soup Kitchen - Love in Action

This Valentine's Day, let's shine a light on the Compassion Soup Kitchen and their unwavering dedication to our community. Since 1901, they've been extending compassion to Wellingtonians in need through:

• Nutritious Meals: Serving breakfast and dinner six days a week to those experiencing food insecurity.

• Community Support: Providing a welcoming space for individuals to connect and access essential services.

• Advocacy and Guidance: Offering assistance and referrals to help guests navigate various social services.

Want to spread some love? The Compassion Soup Kitchen appreciates donations of non-perishable food items, toiletries, and warm clothing. Monetary contributions can also be made through their website. Visit soupkitchen.org.nz to learn how you can help.

🎉 Weekend Events

🔥 Friday, 14 Feb – Valentine's Day Special!

🎶 Dimension (UK) | Wellington
Experience a night of electrifying drum & bass with Dimension, Nero, and more at TSB Arena! High-energy beats, stunning visuals, and an epic crowd await.
📍 TSB Arena, Wellington | 🕕 6:00pm - 11:00pm | 🎟️ Tickets from $89 | 🔗 More Info

🎧 Carl Cox (UK) | Wellington
The legendary DJ returns for an unforgettable open-air set at Brewtown, featuring Wehbba and more. Pure energy, top-tier sound, and an epic afterparty!
📍 Brewtown, Upper Hutt | 🕓 4:30pm - 10:30pm | 🎟️ Tickets from $99 | 🔗 More Info

💘 Valentine's Speed Dating! (Ages 23-30)
Meet new people and spark connections this Valentine's Day!
📍 The PowWow Room, 74 Courtenay Place, Level 1, Wellington | 🕖 7:00pm - 10:30pm | 🎟️ Tickets: $34.95 per person | 🔗 More Info

🪓 Love at First Throw: Valentine's Day Axe Throwing
Experience a thrilling Valentine's with axe throwing sessions at Sweet Axe Throwing Co.
📍 60 Cambridge Terrace, Te Aro, Wellington | 🕔 5:30pm & 6:30pm | 🎟️ Tickets: $88.60 per couple | 🔗 More Info

💝 Love at First Bite: A Macaron Masterclass
Master the art of heart-shaped macarons in an intimate baking class with Chef Shuchi Bhardwaj! Enjoy expert tips, a glass of bubbles, and a Black Forest cake for two.
📍 Le Ciel Bakery, 100 Tory Street, Wellington | 🕔 Fri 14 & Sat, 5:00pm - 8:00pm | 🎟️ $126.85 per person | 🔗 More Info

🎶 Valentine's Day Shanties with Wellington Sea Shanty Society
Celebrate Valentine's Day with rousing sea shanties at Abandoned Taproom Petone!
📍 38 Fitzherbert St, Petone, Lower Hutt | 🕢 7:30pm - 10:00pm | 🎟️ Tickets: Waged $20, Unwaged $10 | 🔗 More Info

💖 Joyeuse Saint Valentin - Valentine's Day Special
Indulge in a romantic French-inspired 4-course dinner with sparkling wine at The Thistle Inn.
📍 3 Mulgrave St, Thorndon, Wellington | 🕖 7:00pm - 10:00pm | 🎟️ $89 per person | 🔗 More Info

😂 Josh Wolf - High On Life Tour
Acclaimed US comedian Josh Wolf brings his hilarious, high-energy storytelling back to Wellington for one night only! Expect big laughs and unforgettable moments.
📍 Hannah Playhouse, Wellington | 🕢 7:30pm - 9:00pm | 🎟️ Tickets from $49 |

🎲 Roll For Romance
A playful speed dating event where singles connect over fun board games, drinks, and laughter—no awkward small talk, just great vibes!
📍 Counter Culture, Wellington | 🕖 7:00pm - 9:00pm | 🎟️ Tickets: $50 | 🔗 More Info

🎵 Petit ChouX
Experience a sensual and passionate musical journey to France with French songwriter Petit ChouX and Ana.
📍 Leroy's Bar, 2 Plimmers Steps, Wellington | 🕖 7:00pm - 9:00pm | 🎟️ Tickets: $20 | 🔗 More Info

🎶 Cumbia Blazera
Celebrate Valentine's Day with energetic Latin rhythms and original tunes by Cumbia Blazera at The Rogue and Vagabond.
📍 18 Garrett St, Wellington | 🕤 9:30pm | 🎟️ Free Admission | 🔗 More Info

🛍️ Wellington Market Outlet Days
Don't miss out on great bargains, clearance items, and market day specials at Nood Outlet! 🛒🎉📍 Nood Outlet Wellington, Shop 1.11, 2-10 Semple Street, Porirua | 🕠 Fri 14 - Sun 16 Feb 2025, 10:00am - 5:00pm | 🎟️ Free Admission
🔗 More Info

🖤 Anti-Valentine’s Flash Day
Ditch the clichés and embrace love’s darker side with gothic and macabre flash tattoos at The Gallery Tattoo. First in, first served!
📍 Level 2, 4 Bond St, Wellington | 🕙 10:00am - 8:00pm | 🎟️ Free Admission | 🔗 More Info

🎸 Kenny Mill
Enjoy an evening of live music with Kenny Mill, performing classics you know and love. The Whatman Restaurant will be open from 5:30pm for dinner or a snack; book a table for Valentine's Day and receive a free berry cheesecake dessert with each main meal ordered.
📍 Club Wairarapa, 20 Essex Street, Masterton | 🕢 7:30pm | 🎟️ Free Admission | 🔗 More Info

🎭 In This Economy? - NZ Fringe Festival
Join one-liner comedians as they navigate the cost-of-living crisis with humor and wit in this unique Fringe show.
📍 The Fringe Bar, 26 Allen Street, Wellington | 🕕 Friday, 14 February 2025 & Saturday, 15 February 2025, 6:00pm - 7:00pm | 🎟️ Tickets: General Admission $25, Concession $15 | 🔗 More Info

🎭 Running Wet Through A Tunnel
A hilarious and educational musical comedy about the sperm’s journey to the egg—filled with drama, action, and plenty of laughs!
📍 BATS Theatre, Wellington | 🕡 Fri 14 & Sat 15 Feb 2025, 6:30pm - 7:30pm | 🎟️ Tickets from $15 | 🔗 More Info

💖 Aroha Atu Aroha Mai - Share the Love
Celebrate Te Papa’s 27th anniversary with live performances, crafts, rare photo ops, and love-themed treats this Valentine’s weekend!
📍 Te Papa, Wellington | 🕙 14-16 Feb 2025, 10:00am - 2:00pm | 🎟️ Koha Donation | 🔗 More Info

🌅 Palliser Sunset Fridays
Kickstart your weekend with live acoustic music by Carl Webley, a seasonal sharing menu by Attilio, and exquisite Palliser wines.
📍 Palliser Estate Wines, Kitchener St, Martinborough | 🕕 6:00pm - 9:00pm | 🎟️ Free Admission | 🔗 More Info

👻 Horror Corn Maze
Brace yourself for an adrenaline-pumping, spine-chilling adventure in a cornfield filled with terrifying surprises! 🌽😱📍 272 Aorangi Rd, Aorangi, Feilding | 🕠 6:30pm - 9:00pm (Last entry at 10:00pm) | 🎟️ $30
🔗 More Info

🎭 This Wasn't the Plan: A Musical Theatre Cabaret
Join lecturer Glenn Horsfall as he humorously navigates life's unexpected twists through song and storytelling in this heartfelt cabaret.
📍 Thistle Hall, 293 Cuba St, Wellington | 🕢 Fri 14 & Sat 15 Feb 2025, 7:30pm - 9:00pm | 🎟️ Tickets: Adult $25, Concession $15 | 🔗 More Info

🎨 Anyone Can Draw - Structural Morning Class
Learn to draw with perspective and geometric techniques in this structured 8-week course—perfect for all skill levels!
📍 Inverlochy Art School, Wellington | 🕙 10:00am - 1:00pm | 🎟️ All materials provided | 🔗 More Info

🤿 PADI Open Water Diver Course
Get certified as a PADI Open Water Diver with expert training, pool sessions, and open-sea dives—perfect for beginners!
📍 New Zealand Sea Adventures, Porirua | 🕗 8-16 Feb 2025, 8:30am - 2:00pm | 🎟️ $720.33 | 🔗 More Info

🔥 Saturday, 15 Feb – Keep the Love Going!

🎡 Petone Rotary Fair
A massive summer fair with over 100 stalls, live music, fairground rides, and delicious food—fun for the whole family!
📍 Jackson Street, Petone | 🕙 10:00am - 4:00pm | 🎟️ Free Entry | 🔗 More Info

🍷 Wairarapa Wines Harvest Festival
Sip and savor the region’s best wines, gourmet food, and live entertainment in a stunning riverside setting. Includes the exclusive Wine Geek 101 tasting experience!
📍 The Cliffs, Carterton | 🕚 11:00am - 5:00pm | 🎟️ From $82.50 | 🔗 More Info

🌍 Diversity Festival 2025
Celebrate Wellington’s rich cultural diversity with live performances, international cuisine, and a vibrant community gathering. Free entry for all!
📍 Victoria University Memorial Theatre, Wellington | 🕔 5:00pm - 9:00pm | 🎟️ Free Admission | 🔗 More Info

🏎️ 57th National Drag Racing Champ Finals
Experience the thrill of high-speed drag racing featuring all classes in Group One at the 57th NZ National Drag Racing Championship Finals.
📍 Masterton Motorplex, Manaia Road, Masterton | 🕙 Saturday, 15 February 2025, 10:00am–5:00pm & Sunday, 16 February 2025, 9:00am–5:00pm | 🎟️ Gate Entry: $30 per person per day; under 14s free | 🔗 More Info

🎤 Saturday Laughs – NZ Fringe Festival A two-hour comedy showcase featuring top NZ and international talent at the Abandoned Taproom in Petone. 📍 38 Fitzherbert St, Petone, Lower Hutt, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM 🎟️ General Admission: $30.00 (additional fees may apply) 🔗 More Info

🎪 Upper Hutt Gypsy Fair
Join the Gypsy Fair for family fun, live music, unique house trucks, and more! Browse, relax, and enjoy an unforgettable vibe. 🎶🚐📍 Riverbank Park, Upper Hutt | 🕠 Sat 16 & Sun 17 Feb 2025, All Day | 🎟️ Free Admission
🔗 More Info

🧘‍♀️ Yoga in the Sanctuary
Reconnect with nature in a peaceful hatha yoga session surrounded by the beauty of Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary. Suitable for all levels.
📍 Zealandia, Wellington | 🕘 9:00am - 11:00am | 🎟️ From $10.25 | 🔗 More Info

🎭 Private Lives
Noel Coward’s timeless comedy of manners returns! Sparks fly as divorced exes reunite on their honeymoons—expect romance, wit, and chaos.
📍 Gryphon Theatre, Wellington | 🕢 13-15 Feb 2025, 7:30pm - 9:30pm | 🎟️ Tickets from $20 | 🔗 More Info

🎶 Pirata Bellini - Days Bay Opera
A breathtaking outdoor performance of Bellini’s Il Pirata, complete with orchestra, stunning soloists, and a picnic interval.
📍 Canna House, Days Bay | 🕠 13, 15 & 16 Feb 2025, 5:30pm - 8:30pm | 🎟️ $90 | 🔗 More Info

🎭 Solovivor
Experience comedian Ralph Hilaga's ultimate improv challenge as he tackles a solo Survivor adventure—no script, no cast, just pure instinct and audience interaction.
📍 Circus Bar, 17b Allen St, Wellington | 🕗 Fri 14 & Sat 15 Feb 2025, 8:00pm - 9:00pm | 🎟️ Tickets: $22 | 🔗 More Info

💔 A Smashing Anti-Valentine’s Day
Ditch the romance and unleash your frustrations by smashing things in this ultimate stress-relief experience—includes a crate of smashables and a drink!
📍 The Smash Room, Wellington | 🕙 10:00am - 12:30pm | 🎟️ $34.05 | 🔗 More Info

🍰 Love in Every Bite: Valentine’s High Tea
Indulge in an elegant five-course high tea experience with handcrafted pastries, decadent chocolates, and a glass of bubbles at Le Ciel Bakery.
📍 Le Ciel Bakery, Wellington | 🕑 15 & 16 Feb 2025, 2:00pm - 5:00pm | 🎟️ $75.05 | 🔗 More Info

🏛️ Pukeahu Summer Tours
Discover the history and significance of New Zealand’s National War Memorial Park with a guided tour exploring its memorials and stories.
📍 Pukeahu National War Memorial Park, Wellington | 🕚 11:00am - 12:00pm | 🎟️ Free Admission | 🔗 More Info

🧵 Ōtari Raranga Weavers 2025 Season
Join us for traditional Māori weaving workshops amidst native flora, suitable for all skill levels.
📍 Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush, 160 Wilton Road, Wilton, Wellington | 🕚 11:00am–2:30pm | 🎟️ Tickets from $10.25 | 🔗 More Info

🎤 Comedy Q&A with Hayley Sproull
Join comedian, writer, and TV host Hayley Sproull for a candid chat about her career in comedy, radio, and television. Bring your questions and enjoy a laugh!
📍 The Fringe Bar, Wellington | 🕐 1:00pm - 2:00pm | 🎟️ Tickets from $5 | 🔗 More Info

🤿 Community Snorkel: Taputeranga Marine Reserve
Explore Wellington’s underwater world with a free guided snorkel! Gear and safety support provided—just bring your togs and towel.
📍 Taputeranga Marine Reserve, 230 The Esplanade, Island Bay | 🕙 10:00am - 2:00pm | 🎟️ Free Admission | 🔗 More Info

🎉 Back to School Family Fun Fest
Enjoy a day of free activities, including motorised cars, a bouncy castle, carnival games, and a photo booth—fun for the whole family! 🚗🏰🎯📍 Community Baptist Church, 11 & 13 Sunlight Grove, Porirua | 🕠 12:00pm - 4:00pm | 🎟️ Free Admission
🔗 More Info

🌻 Ruamāhanga Sunflower Fest
Join us for a stunning walk through thousands of sunflowers at Ruamāhanga Farm, supporting the Farm Foundation’s educational and regenerative projects. 📍 Ruamāhanga Farm, Martinborough | 🕠 Sat 15 & Sun 16, 22 & 23 Feb 2025, 10am - 3pm | 🎟️ $10 (12+), free for under 12s
🔗 More Info

🌿 Back to the Jurassic - Guided Walk
Take a 60-minute walk through time and explore Jurassic-era plants—without the dinosaurs! 🦖🌳📍 Wellington Botanic Garden, 101 Glenmore St, Kelburn, Wellington | 🕠 2:00pm - 3:00pm | 🎟️ $5 (cash only)
🔗 More Info

🔥 Sunday, 16 Feb – Sunday Funday!

🐍 2025 Lunar New Year Celebration
Celebrate the Year of the Wood Snake with vibrant cultural performances, an Asian market, fun activities, and more! 🎭🎉📍 TSB Arena & Frank Kitts Park, Wellington | 🕠 11:00am - 5:00pm | 🎟️ Free Admission
🔗 More Info

🏃‍♂️ Round the Bays 2025
Join the biggest fun run in Wellington with new course options, live entertainment, and a fun party atmosphere—perfect for all ages and fitness levels! 🎉🎶📍 Waitangi Park, Wellington | 🕠 All Day | 🎟️ Free Admission
🔗 More Info

🚗 Shannon Spectacular Car & Bike Show
Check out an incredible collection of cars and bikes, enjoy food trucks, and join in on the prize giving and raffle draws! 🏍️🚙📍 The Shannon Domain, Stout Street, Shannon | 🕠 7:00am - 12:30pm | 🎟️ $2 Gold Coin Entry (Public), $10 Entry per Show Vehicle/Bike
🔗 More Info

⚰️ Tiptoe Through the Tombstones
Discover the intriguing stories behind the headstones at New Zealand’s oldest heritage cemetery on this captivating walking tour. 🏰🌿📍 Bolton Street Cemetery, Bolton Street, Wellington | 🕠 2:00pm - 3:30pm | 🎟️ $10.25
🔗 More Info

🎶 The Skiffy Rivets
Enjoy a delightful mix of Americana, folk, swing, country, bluegrass, and blues, with stunning harmonies from The Skiffy Rivets! 🎸🎤📍 The Undercurrent, 118 Tory Street, Wellington | 🕠 5:00pm - 7:00pm | 🎟️ $16.58
🔗 More Info

🎶 Alistair Brown Upclose & Personal
Join renowned Scottish singer and accordionist Alistair Brown for a memorable evening of ballads, comic ditties, and hilarious stories! 🎹🎤📍 The Barn, 75 North Street, Greytown | 🕠 4:00pm - 6:30pm | 🎟️ $25.30
🔗 More Info

🎷 Sunday Jazz - Rachelle Eastwood
Enjoy a funky, jazzy afternoon with local flautist Rachelle Eastwood and her talented quartet at The Rogue and Vagabond! 🎶🍻📍 The Rogue and Vagabond, 18 Garrett St, Wellington | 🕠 5:00pm | 🎟️ Free Admission
🔗 More Info

🌿 Wellington Botanist Market
Immerse yourself in a botanical paradise filled with plants, art, fashion, homewares, and more! 🌱🎨📍 Thistle Hall, 293 Cuba St, Te Aro, Wellington | 🕠 10:00am - 3:00pm | 🎟️ Free Admission
🔗 More Info

🎻 James Jin (Violin) and Xing Wang (Piano)
Enjoy a stunning violin and piano recital by James Jin and Xing Wang, featuring beautiful classical compositions. 🎶🎹📍 Waikanae Memorial Hall, 7 Pehi Kupa St, Waikanae | 🕠 2:30pm | 🎟️ Public: $50, WMS Members: $40, Students: $10
🔗 More Info

🎶 Roots & Culture Live at Moon!
Catch legendary Roots & Culture selectors live at Moon, spinning epic reggae, roots, and culture tunes! 🎧🎶📍 Moon, 167 Riddiford Street, Wellington | 🕠 3:00pm - 7:00pm | 🎟️ Free Admission
🔗 More Info

🛍️ Greytown Country Market
Explore fresh produce, artisan goods, and more at the vibrant Greytown Country Market, all for a great cause! 🌿🍽️📍 Stella Bull Park, Main Street, Greytown | 🕠 10:00am - 2:00pm | 🎟️ Free Admission
🔗 More Info

🥋 Tuma Mau Taiaha - Mau Rākau Training
Join us for free training in the Māori martial arts of mau taiaha and mau rākau at Te Whiti Park—suitable for all ages and skill levels! 🥷🌿📍 Te Whiti Park, Whites Line East, Waiwhetu, Lower Hutt | 🕠 Sun 16 & 23 Feb 2025, 7:00am - 9:00am | 🎟️ Free Admission
🔗 More Info

🎶 Summer Sunday Sessions
Relax with live music by the vines at The Vineyard Cafe, enjoying great food and beautiful Margrain wine. 🍷🎤📍 The Vineyard Cafe at Margrain Vineyard, 5 Huangarua Road, Martinborough | 🕠 2:00pm - 5:00pm | 🎟️ Free Admission
🔗 More Info

🛍️ Ōtaki Craft Market
Explore a vibrant outdoor market with arts, crafts, food, and more—perfect for the whole family! 🧑‍🌾🍽️📍 Ōtaki Market, 58 Main Highway, Ōtaki, Kapiti Coast | 🕠 10:00am - 2:00pm | 🎟️ Free Admission
🔗 More Info

🌡️ Welly Weather Watch

Love isn't the only thing heating up Wellington this weekend! ❤️

☀️ Friday: Sunny and warm, 25°C – Perfect for outdoor Valentine's dates!
☀️ Saturday: Fine, 23°C – A beautiful day for the Petone Rotary Fair!
🌤️ Sunday: Partly Cloudy, 24°C – Get out and enjoy!

Enjoy your love-filled weekend, Wellington! Whether you're sharing it with someone special or treating yourself to some self-care, make it a good one.

Got a tip, a cool local event, or a hidden gem we should feature? Reply to this email or tag us on 📸 Instagram (WellyBuzz) & 📘 Facebook — we love hearing from you!

📬 Stay buzzing, Welly!

Ngā mihi nui,
Kirstie & Steve 🐝

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