Skip to main content
News | 9 December 2022
Share on social

Friday Five: Ways to have fun on Courtenay Place this summer

With the days getting longer and the life returning to some form of post-COVID normality, Courtenay Place is gearing up for a buzzing few months – here are five ways you can make the most of our lively entertainment precinct over summer.

St James Theatre on Courtenay Place.

1. Go and see a show  

With the recently reopened Hannah Playhouse and the St James Theatre back on the scene, there are lots of great options if you’re looking for an evening of arts and culture. With a mix of both local and international acts, there is something for everyone. Think Wicked, Beauty and the Beast, an ABBA tribute show and international comedy…just to name a few.

Tickets also make a great (sustainable) Christmas pressie for your culture loving friends and whānau! Check out what’s on.  

2. Grab a bite (or two) 

We’ve all heard that Wellington has more eateries per capita than New York City right? Well, it just so happens that a lot of those are in the Courtenay Place area. From cheap eats and post night-out classics to the finer side of dining, there is something to suit every taste and craving. Why not go for a stroll and see what you can find?

People drinking on a rooftop bar.
Image by Celeste Fontein.

3. Get amongst the night life  

For the young and the young at heart, the buzzing nightlife on Courtenay Place offers something for everyone. Feeling like a boogie? Here are the best bars for a dance.  

If you’re after a classy cocktail and a more relaxing vibe there are plenty of cute, cosy and quirky bars.  

Staying safe on a night out is important and that’s why we fund Take 10 through The Pōneke Promise, our joint committing to creating a safe and vibrant central city. You’ll find them on the corner of Courtenay Place and Taranaki Street. They’re set up with water, lollies, games, phone chargers and medical help. They can also help you get home safely. 

Parklet at The Champegneria.

4. Sit outside and soak up the sun 

Nothing beats a drink in the sun on Wellington on a good day. There are some great rooftop bars on Courtenay Place and spots to sit outside, soak up the vibe and enjoy people watching.  

Up the end of Courtenay Place, The Tasting Room and The Champagneria have plenty of outdoor seating options. Check out Wellington’s best outdoor spots.  

5. Enjoy some busking tunes…or create some yourself  

We’ve installed a big green ‘busk stop’ near St James Theatre to encourage buskers to make the most of the area. There is nothing like live music to bring vibrancy and people to an area. If you’re interested in bringing your band down to busk, you can find out more information about getting a permit on the website.  

Need some more ideas? WellingtonNZ have put together a guide for Courtenay Place.  

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.