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News | 12 February 2025
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What to do in Wellington on Valentine's Day

Whether you want to celebrate with someone you love or want to find love yourself, there’s plenty to do in Pōneke this Valentine’s Day. Check out some of these ideas for you and your valentine.

Carter fountain with the sunset in the background.
Image from WellingtonNZ.

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.

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 some new and notable foodie spots from WellingtonNZ.

Two meerkats kissing.
Image from Wellington Zoo.

Learn about love in the animal kingdom at Wellington Zoo

Want to treat your loved one to a wild night this Valentine’s? Wellington Zoo is throwing an exclusive adult only event from 5pm to 8.30pm – with live music, an outdoor bar and love themed animal talks! You can even book a delicious picnic basket to share on the Wellington Zoo website. 

Get your tickets on the Wellington Zoo website.

Head to one of Wellington’s longest-running festivals

The Island Bay Festival started in 1985 and showcases the talent and diversity of the South Coast every February. With events on every day until Sunday 18 Feb, you can fill your Valentine’s Day with a range of exciting activities such as yoga, followed by life drawing! 

Find out more on the Island Bay festival events page.

Planetarium dome at Space Place lit up with pink lights.
Image from Space Place.

Heavenly Bodies: Valentine’s Under the Stars

For the sci-curious (science curious) lovebirds of Pōneke. Enjoy a bespoke planetarium show, photobooth fun, Wellington Chocolate Factory Treats and surrealist art activity supported by Gordon Harris the Art and Graphic Store. There is only one session left before it's sold out, so book now!

Stay in with your favourite film buff 

Celebrate with a special night in. Try a new recipe from Wellington City Libraries’ Magazines on Libby. 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.