WellyBuzz – December 8, 2024

Welcome to WellyBuzz, your trusted source for all things happening around the capital. Here's your weekly update on events, news, local businesses, and all the reasons why Wellington is the best place to be.

In today’s WellyBuzz:

• Wellington’s Summer Festival Kicks Off! 🎉

• What’s On: Christmas Events, Music & More 🎶

• Business Spotlight: Wellington’s Hidden Gems 🎁

• Best Outdoor Dining Spots in Wellington 🌞

• Welly’s Weather Watch: A Hot Week Ahead 🔥

SPONSORED BY LOCAL BUSINESSES

We're excited to partner with Wellington's best businesses to bring you amazing deals and festive finds! Check out our WellyBuzz Business Spotlights below.

THE DIGEST

Wellington’s Summer Festival Kicks Off! 🎉

The holiday season is officially here, and Wellington’s Summer Festival has kicked off! With a packed lineup of outdoor events, live music, food festivals, and family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone. Don't miss out on exciting events happening all month, including:

• New Year’s Eve Waterfront Party: Enjoy a massive celebration with food stalls, live performances, and a stunning fireworks display over the harbour.

• Wellington Summer Concert Series: Check out free concerts happening in various parks around the city, featuring local and international artists.

• Ongoing Exhibition

  The Art of Banksy

  • Until: January 20, 2025

  • Venue: Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre

  • Features: 150 original and authenticated Banksy works

For more details on the festival and event schedule, visit: Wellington Summer Festival.

What’s On: Christmas Events, Music & More 🎶

• Wellington Christmas Parade: On December 9th, the streets will come alive with a grand parade, featuring festive floats, dancers, and a marching band. This is one of the city's biggest events, a true Wellington Christmas tradition!

• Christmas Markets:

  • Frank Kitts Park Christmas Market: A festive market offering handcrafted gifts, delicious food, and a warm, holiday spirit.

  • Wellington Farmers Market: Still the best place for fresh seasonal produce and artisan gifts for the holiday season.

Business Spotlight: Wellington’s Hidden Gems 🎁

• The Green Room Café: Tucked away in Te Aro, this cozy café serves the best locally sourced coffee and homemade treats, perfect for a relaxing morning out.

• Arty Bees Books: For book lovers, this independent indie bookstore offers an amazing selection of novels, history books, and Wellington-themed literature that make fantastic gifts.

Best Outdoor Dining Spots in Wellington 🌞

With the sunny weather, now is the perfect time to dine al fresco. Here are some of the best outdoor spots to enjoy great food and stunning views:

• Harbourside Market & Café: A beautiful spot along the waterfront to enjoy breakfast or brunch with a view of the harbour.

• The Boat Shed Café: Perfect for a waterfront lunch with fantastic seafood options and a relaxing atmosphere.

• Scorch-O-Rama: Enjoy delicious wood-fired pizzas while sitting under the sun at Wellington’s premier outdoor pizza restaurant in Karaka Bay.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Theatre & Events 🎭

• Wellington Repertory Theatre presents The Nutcracker Ballet
  Celebrate the holiday season with this magical ballet, running until December 20th. Perfect for all ages!
  Get your tickets: Wellington Repertory Theatre

• Cuba Street Night Market
  Every Friday and Saturday, the famous Cuba Street Night Market offers a wonderful blend of food, live music, and local crafts from 5 PM to 10 PM. It’s a must-visit every weekend!
  More info: Cuba Street

• Wellington Farmers Market
  Head to Wharewaka Function Centre every Saturday for fresh produce, artisan bread, and handmade crafts.
  More details: Wellington Farmers Market

EXTRA SPRINKLES

Support Wellington’s Community This Holiday Season 🎁

The Wellington City Mission continues collecting donations of food, toys, and gifts for families in need. It’s an excellent way to give back to the community this Christmas.
Learn how you can help: Wellington City Mission

WEATHER WATCH 🔥

7-Day Weather Forecast

For live weather updates, check out MetService Wellington.

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN 🎶

Upcoming Concerts

• New Orleans Joymakers
  Day: Sunday
  Date: December 8, 2024
  Venue: Meow, Wellington

• Solar Daze - Single Release
  Day: Thursday
  Date: December 12, 2024
  Venue: Meow, Wellington

• David Dallas | FAFO - Vita Tour ft PNC
  Day: Friday
  Date: December 13, 2024
  Venue: Meow, Wellington

• The Phoenix Foundation
  Day: Saturday
  Date: December 14, 2024
  Venue: Meow Nui, Wellington

For more live music events, visit Eventfinda - Upcoming Events in Wellington.

SPORTS UPDATE ⚽️

• Wellington Phoenix FC: The Phoenix are playing Macarthur FC on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at Sky Stadium in Wellington. The match is scheduled to kick off at 5:00 PM NZT.
  Tickets and details: Wellington Phoenix

• Wellington Firebirds vs. Auckland Aces – Plunket Shield Match
  The Wellington Firebirds are currently competing against the Auckland Aces in a crucial Plunket Shield match at Kennards Hire Community Oval in Auckland. The match started on Saturday, December 7, 2024, and will continue through December 10, 2024. As of now, the Firebirds are working hard to chase down the Aces' first innings total. Come down to support Wellington's best as they battle it out on the field!
  Tickets and details: Wellington Firebirds

• Upcoming Hallyburton Johnstone Shield Match

  The Wellington Blaze will face off against the Auckland Hearts in the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield Women’s One Day Match on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at10:30 AM NZDT at the Kennards Hire Community Oval.

• Wellington Phoenix Women’s FC
  The Wellington Phoenix Women will be facing Brisbane Roar on Sunday, December 8, 2024, at Porirua Park. Catch all the exciting action as the Phoenix Women’s team competes in the A-League Women's competition.
  Tickets and details: Wellington Phoenix Women

• Wellington Rugby
  Wellington’s top rugby teams are gearing up for their summer matches, with local clubs playing throughout December. Whether it’s a friendly match or a competitive fixture, you can catch all the action at various rugby fields across the city.
  More info: Wellington Rugby

Thanks for reading WellyBuzz!

If you found something useful, share it with a friend or neighbor who loves Wellington as much as you do!
Until next time—stay connected, stay positive, and stay Wellington!