Find the perfect gift
The beauty of design is celebrated in Wellington’s excellent selection of gift shops. Spoil yourself or someone else in your life with something special and uniquely Wellington.
Cuba Street isn’t usually where you’d go for calm. The quirky street bustles with interesting characters, shops, cafés, and sights. But Wellington Apothecary is an island of peace among the throng. On its shelves sit pretty glass bottles of aromatherapy oils, herbal remedies and botanical skincare. From the dispensary, you can purchase tonics and teas. The remedies soothe irritated digestive systems, help the body cope with stress, ease coughs and colds, and much more. There’s also a natural therapy clinic offering therapeutic massage, holistic facials, naturopathy, and Ayurveda medicine.
Shopping at Wellington Apothecary is a sensory experience. There are always candles or oils burning and herbal tea brewing, creating a calm energy you notice from the moment you step inside. The team makes all teas, tonics, and skincare in the shop. Customers can see the products they’re purchasing created in front of them.
Laura Jansen, Chantal Cropp, and Jemma Scott founded Wellington Apothecary. The trio had been living in a cottage in Raglan dreaming of creating a modern apothecary when two of Wellington’s herbal dispensaries shut up shop. They saw it as a sign the time was right, and in 2014, they opened a shop on Ghuznee Street. They moved to their current location on Cuba Street two years later.
“We’ve always loved Cuba Street for its colour, culture and quirkiness,” says Jemma Scott. “There’s a strong sense of community among the locals. It’s a very supportive and collaborative environment to be in.”
In a busy city, Wellington Apothecary offers a welcome respite. “The best antidote [to busyness] is finding small moments every day to do something that you find relaxing. Simple calming rituals like sitting down with a cup of tea, or soaking in a warm bath can work wonders,” says Jemma.
Wellington Apothecary offers many workshops. Learn about herbal tea rituals, natural perfumery, modern calligraphy, candle making, and watercolour painting.
Looking for more?
At start of items
Wellington’s independent bookstores
Bookworms will be in heaven in Wellington, where independent bookstores are around every corner. From secondhand treasures to the newest releases, there’s a title for everyone. So, clear off your bedside table and pull up a comfy chair. Here’s where to find your next best read in Wellington.
Iko Iko
Find an eclectic array of fun and unique products at this Cuba Street gift shop.
Abel Odor
Follow your nose to Wellington’s chicest perfumery, Abel.
Rawson Brothers Jewellery
Rawson Brothers Jewellery creates beautiful handcrafted pieces that stand the test of time.