Your guide to spring in Wellington

Sweet dreams are made of these 

WOW by name and wow by nature — that’s the World of WearableArt (WOW) Show. Running for over 30 years, WOW is Aotearoa’s largest arena spectacular. For three weeks from 26 September, the TSB Arena comes to life with live music, aerial artistry, dance, and digital technology. Each of these performance arts elevates the phenomenal works of wearable art on display. This year’s WOW Show ‘DREAM AWAKE’ will take you through six awe-inspiring ‘realms’. Imagination becomes reality as you navigate worlds spun by the mysterious and magical Dream Maker. 

Keep your eye on the ball, sport 

The 34,000 seats at Sky Stadium are bound to be heaving with rugby fans come 28 September. The All Blacks take on trans-Tasman rivals Australia in a thrilling match. This much-anticipated test doubles as a Bledisloe Cup and Lipovitan-D Rugby Championship game. The Bledisloe Cup, dubbed the pinnacle of trans-Tasman sport, is one of the most revered trophies in the world of rugby. Don’t miss your chance to watch who wins it this time. 

The New Zealand Silver Ferns will also be playing for glory in Wellington. Two international teams are travelling to New Zealand to help the national team celebrate its centenary. Don’t pass up the chance to see some fast footwork when the Silver Ferns meet the England Roses on 2 October at Te Rauparaha Arena. The Australian Diamonds then meet them on 20 October at TSB Arena. 

Get your groove on 

Over 100 scheduled gigs make the Wellington Jazz Festival an action-packed five days. Running 16 to 20 October, with American Grammy-award-winning artists bookending the festival. Bass player Marcus Miller opens proceedings. He’s performed jazz, R&B, fusion, and soul in over 500 recordings across a thirty-year career. Bassist, singer, and composer esperanza spalding wraps up festivities. Her closing night concert promises to thrill audiences. She has previously collaborated with Prince, Bruno Mars, and Wayne Shorter. Between these two concerts, venues, bars, and cocktail lounges will groove to the beat of multiple gigs. Check out Alexander Flood, Louisa Williamson, Fly My Pretties, The Rodger Fox Big Band and ORO MĀIA, a soulful tribute to the words of Dr Maya Angelou.

That’s a tasty pastry 

Spring’s longer days mean you’re probably getting up earlier — or maybe it’s the smell of fresh bread that’s enticing you out the door? The rise and rise of quality bakeries around Wellington gives plenty of options for something fresh and flaky. 

Baker Gramercy in Berhampore has made a name for itself by making simple, honest breads. The croissant selection includes almond, ham and gruyere, jalapeño cheddar, or chocolate almond. In the central city, Belén Vegan Bakery avoids all animal products in its baking. From doughnuts and brioche to “mince” pies and sandwiches. Its menu changes monthly so repeat visits are necessary. Over in Kelburn, new kid on the block, Volco has pastries, doughnuts, and sandwiches, along with flatbreads straight out of an imported Italian pizza oven. 

Those boots were made for walking 

It’s spring. There’s no excuse not to get out and about and enjoy the warming air. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to trails to walk, run, bike, or ride. Head across to Eastbourne to try out the Kowhai Street Track at East Harbour Regional Park. The well-maintained track leads to some wonderful views over Wellington Harbour. If you’ve got half a day spare, the Skyline Walkway makes the perfect walking or biking. Bring your stamina and your camera as you journey along the ridge tops above the northern suburbs. 

Exterminate! Exterminate!   

The TARDIS has landed, and the Daleks are loose. Fans of the hit television series ‘Doctor Who’ will be pleased to hear that an exclusive exhibition is being hosted at Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre. Come face to face with the iconic characters and on-screen worlds from across the show’s history. Explore scientific concepts like time travel, and why the TARDIS is bigger on the inside. ‘Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder: Where Science Meets Fiction | Doctor Who Ngā Ao Mīharo: Te tūtakitanga o te Pūtaiao ki te Pakimaero’ runs until 28 October.