It’s easy to get comfortable in the Auckland-sphere.
When you’re surrounded by the same brands, the same founders, the same familiar faces, inspiration can start to feel… recycled. So last week, FNZ hit pause, packed a bag, and headed south for a much-needed refresh in Wellington – New Zealand’s cultural capital and, as I quickly relearned, a city that does things its own way.
I hadn’t been to Wellington in over eight years. Within minutes of arriving, my Uber driver asked why I’d missed CubaDupa the weekend before. I had no idea what it was – apparently a major moment in the Wellington calendar – and just like that, I realised how out of the loop I’d been.
This trip was already doing its job.
A Strong Start at Kowtow
First stop: Kowtow HQ. Bright, welcoming, and unmistakably Kowtow, the space set the tone for what was shaping up to be an inspiring trip. I was there to interview and film Dayne Johnston, Head Designer at Kowtow, and both he and the team were nothing short of incredible.
We headed downstairs into the store to film, and from the energy in the room, I could tell this trip was already off to a great start.
My travel MVP? The R.M. Williams Alice Weekender bag. It quickly became my lifeline – big enough to carry my tripod, sleek enough to move between appointments with ease. I was bouncing from location to location before check-in, and it kept up with me every step of the way.
QT Wellington: A Stay to Remember
By the time check-in rolled around, I was more than ready to reset. My home for the night: QT Wellington, perfectly positioned on the waterfront overlooking Te Papa.
From the moment I stepped inside, it felt less like a hotel and more like an experience. QT Wellington is known for blending expressive art with designer luxury – and that balance hits you instantly. The lobby is dark, moody, and unapologetically creative, filled with curiosities and pieces that make you stop mid-step. It’s the kind of place that invites you to explore, not just pass through.
I was welcomed at concierge and guided through to my Gallery Harbourview King Room, one of just 81 individually designed rooms in the hotel – each tailored to feel completely unique. When I opened the door, I was greeted by a MECCA package waiting on the bed, filled with travel essentials thoughtfully organised by the staff.
Inside, everything felt considered. Designer furnishings, bespoke art, and those small luxury touches that elevate a stay — from the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer to the Kevin Murphy amenities and Nespresso setup. The room struck that perfect balance between comfort and personality, with harbour views that made it hard to leave.
But what really sets QT apart is its deep connection to art. The hotel houses one of New Zealand’s largest private art collections, curated by Sir Chris Parkin, and it shows – not just in the public spaces, but in the rooms themselves. Everywhere you look, there’s something to discover.
From City to Storybook: Visiting Chloe Hill
After a quick reset, it was back out the door – this time heading to Stokes Valley to film Wellington-based creative Chloe Hill for our new series Favourite Eight.
What struck me most was how quickly the city shifted. In the span of 15 minutes, we went from a buzzing metropolis to something that felt like a quiet, storybook town. Chloe’s home matched the setting perfectly – warm, creative, and full of personality.
Behind the Curtain at St James Theatre
Next stop: the St James Theatre, where I was given a private tour of the Royal New Zealand Ballet’s costume department.
This was a highlight.
The costume department felt like stepping into a hidden world – racks of garments, intricate detailing, and a team working like a perfectly tuned machine behind the scenes. It was the kind of access that feels special, like you’re seeing something not everyone gets to.
From there, we moved into the theatre itself.
Originally opened in 1912, the St James Theatre is one of Wellington’s most iconic heritage venues, known for its grand Edwardian architecture and long-standing role in the performing arts scene. Walking into the empty auditorium, I was completely stunned. We sat in silence for a moment, just taking in the scale, the symmetry, the history embedded in every detail.
Then came the moment: standing on stage as the curtain lifted in front of me.
It was surreal.
Wind Down at QT
After a full day, I headed back to QT where a bottle of wine and pre-dinner snacks were waiting in my room. I sat out on the balcony, looking over the harbour, reflecting on just how much had happened in a single day.
Later, I made my way down to the QT Gallery Lounge Bar – and honestly, it could hold its own on Ponsonby Road. Nothing like your typical hotel bar. The drinks list was stacked, the staff were exceptional, and the arancini? Easily some of the best I’ve ever had.
I wandered through the space, soaking in the hotel’s art installations before heading back upstairs and passing out.
Day Two: Back Into It
The next morning started early. Sunrise over the harbour, a quick reset with all the room’s amenities (and a few more Mecca treats), then breakfast at QT Hippo Restaurant & Bar.
Waffles were on the menu – decision made.
I sat by the window, mapping out the day ahead, before exploring the space, which – unsurprisingly – was filled with eccentric decor and art. Perfectly Wellington.
Round Two with Kowtow & Buoy Salon
After checking out, I headed back to Kowtow HQ to shoot and film an Unzipped feature with the team. Walking in felt familiar this time – like I’d already become part of the weekly rhythm.
From there, it was on to Buoy Salon, a Wellington institution I’d been wanting to visit ever since seeing their electric presence at NZFW. I sat down with owner Sam Elvey to film a This or That video, chatted all things Wellington, and quietly envied every client walking out with perfect hair.
Final Stop: Sully’s & Smoko Confessions
My final appointment took me to Sully’s, where I met founder Hannah Sullivan to film for our new series Smoko Confessions.
Getting there wasn’t exactly glamorous – I was caught in a rain shower and hobbling thanks to some serious blisters from day one – but it was more than worth it.
We filmed, talked about Wellington style (apparently heels in the daytime are a rarity – awkward, considering I was wearing them), shared laughs, swapped stories, and it all felt incredibly natural. Like catching up with an old friend.
Signing Off
Before boarding my flight, I made one final essential stop: Best Ugly Bagels. Because some things are non-negotiable.
This trip was exactly what it needed to be – refreshing, inspiring, and a reminder that stepping outside your usual orbit can completely shift your perspective.
Wellington, you delivered.
Thank you to everyone who made FNZ On Tour possible.