Hutt ValleyEat & Drink
Three people sitting at a wooden picnic table on a patio at Brewtown in Upper Hutt, Wellington. They each have a flight of beers and are doing a cheers.

Grab a drink in the Hutt Valley

Home to Wellington’s only craft beer village, the Hutt Valley has more than its fair share of great places to grab a drink. From boutique breweries to lively bars, you’ll find some of the region’s tastiest brews right here.

The exterior of Abandoned Taproom in Petone. It is a large white building with a large 'Abandoned' sign above the door, and the red logo on the wall. People sit in front on benches.
The vintage car themed interior of Gear Street Union Lower Hutt.
Three people drinking beer in front of Brewtown sign in Upper Hutt.
A wide look at the main bar at Baylands Brewery, with two bartenders posing in front of the beer taps, with a beer in hand.
The interior of The Victoria Tavern located in Petone in Lower Hutt. It is a spacious, luminous restaurant with concrete floors, tables of varying sizes, chairs and two staff members standing at the front desk.
The bar at Sprig + Fern Tavern in Petone, Lower Hutt. Two workers are pouring draught beers.
Two people enjoying drinks on the patio of Seashore Cabaret, a café and restaurant located on the Esplanade in Petone, Lower Hutt.
The exterior of Abandoned Taproom in Petone. It is a large white building with a large 'Abandoned' sign above the door, and the red logo on the wall. People sit in front on benches.

Abandoned Taproom Petone

38 Fitzherbert Street, Petone, Lower Hutt

Abandoned Taproom in Petone serves craft beers, big sandwiches, and a whole lot of attitude.

Covered in graffiti and industrial touches, it’s a casual spot for an afternoon drink or evening catch-up. The taps offer a rotating selection of classics and favourites alongside craftier new creations. On weekends you can often see live music and DJ sets. 

Big, hearty sandwiches are on the menu. Locals who remember the venue’s previous tenant, Ontrays, will welcome the return of its famous Reuben sandwich. Made using the exact recipe and suppliers served at Sheckter’s Deli, it's the very same classic you know and love. The halloumi-laden Layla sandwich is also available, alongside a selection of sides and a tasty kids menu.

Abandoned Brewery
The vintage car themed interior of Gear Street Union Lower Hutt.

Gear Street Union

18 Gear Street, Petone, Lower Hutt

Gear Street Union is a fun and vibrant diner-style bar. In the old Wellington Motorcycles building, it’s full of character. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks, the diner theme continues throughout the menu. There’s a mix of American-influenced and Kiwi fare, a long list of craft beers on tap, a selection of themed cocktails, and lots of local wines to choose from. Bright, bold and full of character, the interior is a mix of neon signs and retro Americana. This popular drinking spot is always bustling on Friday and Saturday nights.

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Three people drinking beer in front of Brewtown sign in Upper Hutt.

Brewtown Upper Hutt

27 Blenheim Street, Maidstone, Upper Hutt

Brewtown is a one-stop for lovers of craft beer, hearty food, and entertainment. Spread across 6,000 sqm of Upper Hutt’s former Dunlop Tyres site, Brewtown brings together some of the region’s top breweries. Along with great eateries, there’s a 4,500 sqm entertainment centre offering mini golf, ice skating, paintball, ten-pin bowling, cart racing, and a trampoline park.

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A wide look at the main bar at Baylands Brewery, with two bartenders posing in front of the beer taps, with a beer in hand.

Baylands Brewery

22 Victoria Street, Petone, Lower Hutt

Home to more than 31 different craft beers, Baylands Brewery and taproom showcases the best of its on-site brews. You can watch the brewing process unfold, then pull up at the bar to sample the finished product. You can even fill a rigger to take home and enjoy later.

Started in a garage by husband and wife team Aidan and Louise Styles, Baylands is one of Wellington’s longest-running craft breweries. The industrial fitout of the brewery is contrasted by its warm hospitality and family-friendly vibe. Here you’ll find tasty barbecue food and great conversation with the locals.

Baylands Brewery
The interior of The Victoria Tavern located in Petone in Lower Hutt. It is a spacious, luminous restaurant with concrete floors, tables of varying sizes, chairs and two staff members standing at the front desk.

The Victoria Tavern

140 Jackson Street, Petone, Lower Hutt

First built in 1888, “The Vic” has gone through several makeovers to become the light, modern pub it is today. Featuring a full dining space and expansive bar, this is a great place to come for a drink and meal with friends.

You can choose from a range of tap beers, a rotating list of cocktails, and local wines. Pair your choice with a menu that highlights the best in regional and New Zealand cuisine.

The Victoria Tavern
The bar at Sprig + Fern Tavern in Petone, Lower Hutt. Two workers are pouring draught beers.

Sprig + Fern Petone

146 Jackson Street, Petone, Lower Hutt

A homely pub full of charm, the Sprig + Fern is a great place to stop for a pint and some bar-side banter.

Set in the historic Raynor & Woodward hardware store, the Sprig + Fern is reminiscent of the quintessential British pub.

Here you’ll find 20 taps showcasing Sprig + Fern craft beers, ciders, and special-release brews. There’s also a list of New Zealand wines, and spirits from around the globe. When you’re feeling hungry, a menu of sharing plates, bar snacks, and pizza is available. The food is fast, filling, and generous.

Regular hosts to quiz nights and live music, the Sprig + Fern offers the complete pub experience.

Sprig + Fern Petone
Two people enjoying drinks on the patio of Seashore Cabaret, a café and restaurant located on the Esplanade in Petone, Lower Hutt.

Seashore Cabaret

160 The Esplanade, Petone, Lower Hutt

With views stretching across the Petone Esplanade and out to the Cook Strait, Seashore Cabaret’s expansive deck is the ideal spot to enjoy a drink. Soak up the sunshine on a clear day or watch the storm clouds roll in across the harbour in spectacular fashion. The drinks list here features a selection of New Zealand craft beers and wines, along with a handful of kitsch cocktails. The menu is full of tasty diner-style food, including burgers, curly fries, fish tacos, and more.

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Two people converse over a glass of wine in the corner booth at Puffin wine bar, a natural wine and cocktail bar in Te Aro, Wellington.

Hidden bars of Wellington (and how to find them)

Up a flight of winding stairs or down a laneway, these are Wellington’s best-kept secret bars.

Four adults sit together at a table on the patio at Long Beach Tavern, located in Waikanae Beach, New Zealand.

Grab a drink up the Coast

From craft beer to cocktails, a drink on the Kāpiti Coast is best enjoyed with a side of sea views.

People sitting on lawn chairs and bean bags on a grassy lawn enjoying food and drinks on a lovely summers day.

Alfresco in the city

There’s a reason why they say you can’t beat Wellington on a good day. When it’s one of those days, the capital has a great selection of outside dining options. Whether day or night check out these spaces for fair-weather dining and drinks.

Four colourful cocktails lined up on the counter at Crumpet, a bar located on Manners Street in Te Aro, Wellington.

Mix it up at Wellington’s cocktail bars

Shaken or stirred, the capital’s bartenders know how to make a mean cocktail. Revisit a classic, or ask for something made specially for you. These cocktail bars have a tipple or two to tempt your tastebuds.

Wide view of bar in Atura Hotel, with seating around the bar.

Stay near the stadium

Got tickets to a big game at the stadium? Make it easy for yourself and find accommodation nearby. There are some great hotels within walking distance of Sky Stadium. Set out early and enjoy a walk along the waterfront before the whistle blows.

Two people play Super Mario racing arcade game machines in Holey Moley, the mini golf course and bar at Willis Lane located in the Central Business District of Wellington.

Things to do when you want to have fun

If you want to have a fun day or night out in Wellington there are plenty of options in the city. Why not think outside the box and try something different.

A person in a red sweater cuddles their dog sitting on a beanbag, on the grass at Glover Park, outside Rogue & Vagabond.

Paws-itively dog friendly dining

Wondering where to eat with dogs in Wellington? These dog-friendly cafés and bars are a great place to start. If you’ve got a furry friend with a taste for a puppuccino, or you’re a dog lover hoping to spot a good boy/girl, these cafés and bars are great spots for dogs and humans alike.

View of Courtenay place from Dirty Little Secret rooftop bar.

Get a taste of Courtenay Place

A hotspot for all things fun and entertainment, there’s plenty to tempt your tastebuds on one of Wellington’s buzziest streets — Courtenay Place.

A person chats with friends over coffee and pastries at Floriditas.

Wellington city brunch: Start your morning sunny side up

Wellington is a city that takes its mid-morning meal seriously. Whether you’re in the mood for eggs just the way you like them, a vegan feast, or a sweet treat, you’ll find a meal to suit your cravings. Cosy up in a casual café, or get your crew together to debrief on the week. Here’s where to get brunch in Wellington.