Friday Five: Valentine’s Day ideas in Wellington

1. Learn about love in the animal kingdom at the zoo

Wellington Zoo will be opening its doors after hours for a special adults-only night on Valentine’s Day! It’s a chance for the grown-ups to enjoy a picnic and a glass of wine, and learn more about what goes on when the lights go off in the animal kingdom.

Why not take your sweetheart along for the ride? Find out more on the Wellington Zoo website.

2. Make a thoughtful gift at Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush 

Have a go at making putiputi bouquets to gift to your nearest and dearest! On Saturday 11 February from 1:30pm to 4:40pm, you can learn all about traditional Māori weaving while going the extra mile and making something from scratch for Valentine’s Day. There will even be whakakano (dyed) harakeke to add some colour to the bouquets. 

Book your spot on EventFinda.

3. Take a date to dinner

Food is an easy way to someone’s heart! Luckily, Wellington has many options to pick a great spot to eat. Whether it's on the day or not – we reckon you don’t need to wait for Valentine’s Day to treat yourself to a delicious meal out. 

To get some inspiration, take a look at WellingtonNZ’s awesome list on where to take a date for dinner. 

4. Watch the sun go down

How about packing a picnic, some blankets and heading to a vantage point where you can watch the sun go down? Sounds pretty romantic to us! 

There’s plenty of top spots to visit in the city, including Te Ahumairangi Hill lookout and Mount Victoria lookout. Or, check out our list of hidden gems.

5. Stay in with your favourite film buff 

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. 

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