Friday Five: Things to do in Pōneke this Valentine’s Day

Are you wondering how you can treat your special person this Valentine’s Day? Look no further, we have come up with five romantic ideas.

Capybaras share a romantic moment at Wellington Zoo.

1. Take your wild thang to see some of their kind at Wellington Zoo

Take your date to enjoy some after-hours fun at Wellington Zoo this Valentine’s Day. Take a picnic and enjoy a stroll around the grounds and love-themed animal talks including Kinky Keas, Love Bugs and Gibbon Love Island.

Do you want to make your night even more memorable? Add on a close encounter with Giraffes, Minibeasts, Capybaras, or Sun Bear. Make sure to book as places are limited.

The zoo will be open for adults only (18+) from 5-8.30pm on Valentine’s Day. Tickets cost $27 for adults or $20 for students and seniors. Close encounters must be booked separately and have additional costs. Visit the Wellington Zoo website for more information.

2. Stay in with your favourite film buff and make the most of Wellington City’s eLibrary

Celebrate with a special night in. Try a new recipe from Wellington City Libraries’ Magazines on Libby service. Here you can find new and old magazine recipes from over 290 publications. Surprise your lover with your culinary abilities, and maybe find something new to add to your rotation.

Finish your evening with a film. Sick of the film selection on Netflix? Try Wellington City Libraries’ Beamafilm and Kanopy for free!

All of these services are free with Wellington City Libraries membership. Find out more about joining the library here.

A field of baby pink flowers in the Botanic Garden ki Paekākā.

3. Literally stop by and smell the roses at Wellington Botanic Garden ki Paekākā

Spend some quality time together at Wellington Botanic Garden. Take the Cable Car up and enjoy the historic journey which features a tunnel light show and beautiful views of the city.

While you are there, listen out for squawking kākā overhead. These large parrots are the garden’s namesake and have made a big comeback thanks to Zealandia.

Amble back to town via the beautiful Hydrangea Gully and The Lady Norwood Rose Garden – both of which are in bloom now.

4. Keep your beloved safe and get boostered together

There is little more romantic than spending a long, happy and healthy life with the one you love. Reduce the potential of COVID-19 getting in the way of that and book or walk in to get your booster this Valentine’s Day.

Book your booster or find a walk-in on the Book My Vaccine website.

5. Get active together with ClubActive

Pushing each other to stay fit is another great way of making sure that you spend a long and healthy life together.

Join ClubActive to make a commitment to spending time together getting fit this Valentine’s Day and beyond! Try a class, visit a fitness centre, or go for a swim. Find out more about ClubActive membership here.

And if none of these ideas float your boat, check out WOAP's heart warming suggestions.

For the safety of our staff and community, all Wellington City Council facilities require a vaccine pass for entry. And remember to stay safe and follow the current COVID-19 Red guidelines.

Watch out each Friday for a fun list of five great activities to do, places to explore, or things to discover in our awesome city!