🐝Rainbows, Raves & Mother’s Day Magic

🐝 Kia ora Pōneke!

It’s the second week of May and the capital has thrown us all the autumn vibes – a bit of wind, a splash of rain, and even a rainbow or two. The good news? The weekend is looking brighter just in time for Mother’s Day on Sunday. From Booktown delights in Featherston to Tape Face and pun battles in the capital, there’s no shortage of fun. Grab your coats, gather the whānau, and let’s make some memories before winter knocks on the door!

📣 P.S. Can you do us a quick favour?
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🔥 Quick Picks This Weekend

• 📚 Featherston Booktown Festival – NZ’s only booktown turns Featherston into a reader’s paradise with books, talks, and literary fun all weekend.

• 🤡 The Tape Face Show – The hilarious mime sensation (you’ve seen him on TV) brings his quirky silent comedy to the Opera House Saturday night.

• 🍷 Urban Wine Walk – Sip and stroll on a self-guided wine tasting trail through Wellington’s coolest bars and restaurants (Saturday arvo, various CBD spots).

• 🎈 Family Rave – Zoo Escape – Midday dance mayhem for kids and grown-ups alike — dress up and boogie at the zoo-themed Family Rave.

🔥 In This Week’s Buzz

🐾 Pet of the Week – Meet Toru, the sun-loving, three-legged fox terrier who’s mastered the art of lounging in style.
🕰️ Welly’s Time Machine – The fiery tale of Wellington’s forgotten waste-burning “Destructor”
🌟 Local Legends – Two small biz gems to check out
🍽️ Food & Drink – 3 new favourites to eat, drink & unwind
🎉 Events – What’s on across Wellington this weekend
🌦️ Welly Weather Watch – Cosy, cool, and very May
💝 Extra Sprinkles – One charity doing big things

🐾 Pet of the Week – Toru the three-legged fox terrier

Say kia ora to Toru — a sunshine-loving fox terrier with three legs and a whole lot of heart. 💛 This charming boy lives life basking in sunbeams and soaking up the love. Whether he's curled up on the couch or striking a pose in his winter woollies, Toru proves every day that resilience looks downright adorable. 🐶🌞 Big thanks to Jo for sharing him with us!

🕰️ Welly’s Time Machine – The Fiery Tale of Wellington’s “Destructor”

In the late 19th century, Wellington faced a mounting waste problem. To combat this, the city introduced the "Destructor" in 1888, a massive incinerator located where Waitangi Park now stands. This facility burned the city's refuse, reducing waste volume and generating steam to power parts of the sewerage system. The Destructor was a marvel of its time, symbolizing industrial progress. However, as the city grew, so did the challenges. By the 1930s, the incinerator struggled to keep up with the increasing waste, leading to its eventual decommissioning in 1946.

🌟 Local Legends

Baron Hasselhoff’s – 470 Adelaide Rd, Berhampore
A chocolate lover’s wonderland tucked in Berhampore. Baron Hasselhoff’s is a tiny craft chocolate emporium run by local duo Clayton and Erin, whipping up outrageously delicious treats by hand. Step inside this whimsical shop and you’ll find inventive flavours of bean-to-bar chocolate, decadent salted caramels, and fudge that locals rave about. It’s community-minded too, often popping up at local markets and events. If you’ve got a sweet tooth or need a special gift, the Baron’s got you covered (in chocolate!).

Schrödinger’s Books – 137 Jackson Street, Petone
An independent bookshop with a twist in the heart of Petone. Schrödinger’s Books carries a carefully curated range of reads – from the latest NZ novels to timeless classics – all in a cozy, friendly space. The owners are passionate locals who know their books and their community; they host author evenings, book clubs, and even the occasional poetry night. It’s the kind of place you can lose track of time browsing staff picks or chatting about your next favorite read. Pop in for a visit or browse online.

🍽️ Food & Drink – Must-Try Spots This Week

Puku Pies & Kai – Unit 56/74 Kingsford Smith St, Rongotai
Opened in February 2025, this bakery is a new gem in Rongotai. Puku Pies & Kai offers a selection of high-quality, locally sourced pies and baked goods. With its prime location at Lyall Bay Junction, it's the perfect spot to grab a delicious bite after a beach stroll or while exploring the area.

Graze Wine Bar – 95 Upland Road, Kelburn
An intimate wine bar that’s the talk of the town. Graze offers an ever-changing list of natural wines and seasonal small plates perfect for sharing. Think local cheeses, marinated olives, and crostini topped with house-made spreads – yum! The vibe is warm and low-key, with friendly experts to help you pick the perfect vino. It’s the ideal spot to unwind on a cool evening.

Duncan’s Brewing Co. – 4B Sheffield St, Paraparaumu
A local favourite that’s earned national fans, Duncan’s is an award-winning microbrewery just minutes from Paraparaumu Beach. Known for playful, flavour-packed beers (like their Raspberry Ripple Sour and Whippy IPA), the taproom is a relaxed spot to try the latest seasonal drops. Often paired with rotating food trucks and casual coastal vibes.

🎉 Events: Your Weekend Lineup 🌟

Friday 9 May

🏡 Wellington Better Home & Living Show
Eco-friendly inspiration, home improvement ideas, and 200+ exhibitors under one roof.
📍 Sky Stadium | 🕒 Fri–Sun, 10:00am–5:00pm (Sun till 4:00pm) | 🎟 $5 adults, Free for under 16. Gold Card holders $2.50 (Friday only).

🩰 Choreographic Season 2025
NZ School of Dance students premiere original choreographed works in a fresh showcase of emerging talent.📍 Te Whaea, 11 Hutchison Rd | 🕒 Fri & Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2:30pm | 🎟 $15-$30

🤠 A Tribute to Kenny & Dolly
A high-energy tribute to the iconic country duo Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton.📍 Upper Hutt Cosmopolitan Club, 11 Logan St, Upper Hutt | 🕒 7:30pm | 🎟$25

🎭 Give Way – The Musical
A hilarious Kiwi satire about New Zealand’s road rules – complete with toe-tapping tunes and local humour (also runs Sat and Sun)📍 Circa Theatre, Wellington | 🕒 8:00pm | 🎟 $30–$60

🎶 Legends: Mozart & Beethoven
The NZ Symphony Orchestra performs iconic classics under the baton of Masaaki Suzuki.
📍 Michael Fowler Centre | 🕒 6:30pm–8:30pm | 🎟 From $26

🎤 Daisy Grae – Funkathartic Release Party
Indie funk vibes and a high-energy launch party.📍 San Fran | 🕒 8:00pm | 🎟 $10.30

🎸 Sweet As! Swing & Blues
Honky-tonk, fiddles, and classic swing with Don Burnham & The Bandoleros.📍 The Undercurrent, Te Aro | 🕒 7:00pm | 🎟 $15

🍽 Fish’n’Chip Supper – Featherston Booktown
Kick off Booktown weekend with fish ‘n’ chips, kapa haka, and guest speaker Matt Brown.
📍 Anzac Hall, Featherston | 🕒 6:00pm–9:30pm | 🎟 $58.63

🪗 Mehana at The Moon
Gypsy and Balkan folk tunes to get your feet moving.📍 Moon, Newtown | 🕒 8:30pm | 🎟 $15 (plus booking fee).

🕺 Disco Dreams with Chanuii
Funk, disco, and 80s vinyl till late — sequins optional.📍 Meow, Te Aro | 🕒 9:00pm | 🎟 $15

🎶 The Quickening – Americana Duo
Clayton Taylor and Nathan Torvik channel Bob Dylan and Dust Bowl soul in this Kelburn house concert.📍 Hilltop, 17 Upland Rd | 🕒 7:30pm | 🎟 $30.75 suggested donation

🎤 Dan Boerman Folds A Fitted Sheet On His Own
A chaotic, hilarious solo show from rising Kiwi comedian Dan Boerman — fresh from the UK circuit and a sell-out Edinburgh Fringe debut.📍 The Fringe Bar, 26 Allen St | 🕒8:30pm | 🎟 $27

🎭 The Addams Family: A New Musical
Kāpiti College’s kooky and spooky musical comedy featuring Wednesday, Gomez and co.
📍 Te Raukura ki Kāpiti, Raumati | 🕒 7:00pm–9:00pm | 🎟 Student/Child $15.58, Adult $20.70

🌈 Rainbow Wellington Monthly Mixer
Connect with Pōneke’s LGBTQ+ community over a drink at this friendly monthly catch-up in a beloved Cuba St bar.📍 S&M's, 176 Cuba St | 🕒 5:30pm | 🎟 Free

🎸 Rob Joass – Live Acoustic Set
Classic rock covers and relaxed vibes in Porirua.📍 Get Fixed Bicycle Café & Bar, 20 Parumoana St, Porirua | 🕒 6:00pm | 🎟 Free

🎤 Sabrina Carpenter vs Olivia Rodrigo Party
A pop showdown for the ages! Dance, sing, and snack your way through a night of hits, themed drinks, and sweet-and-sour vibes.📍 Circus Bar, 17B Allen St | 🕒 8:00pm | 🎟️ From $10.81

🎤 Late Night Lit: Ko au te taiao
Poetry and storytelling open-mic celebrating nature and Māori identity, includes a drink.
📍 The Royal Hotel, Featherston | 🕒 8:00pm–9:30pm | 🎟 $38.13

🧶 Earth & Ease: A Mother–Daughter Exhibition
Explore handcrafted fibre art and botanical creations by Marie & Katie Pickering — a heartfelt tribute to rural NZ and natural beauty.📍 Thistle Hall Gallery, Cuba St | 🕒 12:00pm–8:00pm | 🎟️ Free Entry

Saturday 10 May

🎈 Family Rave – The Great Zoo Escape
Kid-friendly dance party with DJs, lights, and zoo-themed fun.📍 The Hunter Lounge, Kelburn | 🕒 12:00pm-3:00pm | 🎟 Tickets

😂 Pun Battle
Dad jokes and brutal wordplay hosted by Hugo Grrrl.📍 Te Auaha – Tapere Nui | 🕒 9:30pm | 🎟 From $30 + booking fee

🎪 Korokoro School Gala
Old-school fair with stalls, games, books, and bouncy castles.📍 Korokoro School | 🕒 10:30am–1:30pm | 🎟 Free

🎭 Re-Engineered – Opening Night
Powerful Māori storytelling on identity and resilience.📍 Circa Two, 1 Taranaki St | 🕒 7:30pm | 🎟 $25-$60

🦕 Inflatable Dino Races
It’s Jurassic jockey time! Watch (or join) a herd of inflatables charge the track at Trentham in this hilarious dino dash.📍 Trentham Racecourse, Upper Hutt | 🕒 11:15am | 🎟 Free

🎭 Abby Howells – Welcome to Abby’s Dream
A delightfully oddball hour from Taskmaster NZ’s Abby Howells, diving into life’s wins, worries, and outdoor furniture. Smart, silly, and deeply funny.📍 BATS Theatre | 🕒 5pm | 🎟️ $28–$40

🎳 BBQ & Bowls 2.0
Tunes, tacos, bowls, board games, and beers — this family-friendly village hangout is back for another chilled Saturday session.📍 Hataitai Bowling Club, 157 Hataitai Road | 🕒 3:00pm–10:00pm | 🎟 Free Entry

🎤 The Witch of Maketu – Anika Moa (Kids Show)
Anika Moa performs a hilarious story-and-song set for tamariki.📍 Royal Hotel, 22 Revans St, Featherston | 🕒 12:00pm–12:45pm | 🎟 Free

🍷 Urban Wine Walk
Wander Wellington’s best bars with wine tastings at each stop.📍 Various CBD bars | 🕒 12:00pm–4:00pm | 🎟 $82

🪩 Early Bird Party: 30+ Club Night
Dance to your fave throwbacks from Queen to Shakira — all before bedtime! A fun, feel-good club night for the over-30s who love a boogie and a good sleep.📍 San Fran, 171 Cuba St | 🕒 5:00pm–9:00pm | 🎟️ bit.ly/EBWELL30

📖 Featherston Booktown – Day 2
Panels, kids’ storytime, and the buzzing Book Fair Tent.📍 Featherston | 🕒 All day | Check out the programme here.

🎶 The Early Bobs – A Tribute to Dylan
Harmonicas, protest songs, and pure Dylan magic — this soulful duo brings Bob’s golden era to life in an intimate Kelburn gig.📍 Hilltop, Kelburn | 🕒 7:30pm–9:30pm | 🎟️ $30 suggested donation

🛼 Richter City Roller Derby – Double Header Showdown
Two epic bouts, one wild night! Welly’s B and A teams take on Kapiti and Dunedin in this full-throttle roller derby clash.📍 Kilbirnie Rec Centre | 🕒 5:00pm–9:00pm | 🎟️ Adults $15

🎭 The Tape Face Show
Mime meets mayhem in this wildly creative comedy.📍 The Opera House | 🕒 7:00pm-8:15pm | 🎟️ $39-$42

⚔️ Brewtown Bash – Armoured Combat & Medieval Market
Axes clash, swords swing, and blacksmiths blaze! Watch real-life knights battle it out, browse the medieval market, and sip craft brews while the mayhem unfolds.📍 Brewtown, Upper Hutt | 🕒 11:00am–4:00pm | 🎟️ Free Admission

🌽 Wairarapa Farmers’ Market
Fresh produce, live tunes, giant Jenga and local crafts — this market has it all. Wander the indoor and outdoor stalls, grab a pastry, and enjoy a relaxed Saturday morning under the trees.📍 Solway Showgrounds, Masterton | 🕒 9:00am–1:00pm | 🎟 Free

💃 Mamma Mia! On Repeat Party
Calling all Dancing Queens — it’s a full-blown ABBA and musical theatre tribute night! Expect Mamma Mia bangers, Disney singalongs, and glitter galore.📍 San Fran, Wellington | 🕒 9:30pm–late | 🎟️ bit.ly/MAMMAWEL

🌸 Ancient China Cultural Day
Immerse yourself in traditional Chinese culture — try calligraphy, enjoy dumplings, make lotus crafts, and dress up for photos in historic attire.📍 Aro Valley Community Centre | 🕒 10:00am | 🎟 Free

Sunday 11 May (Mother’s Day)

🛍️ Porirua Mother’s Day Market
Celebrate Mum with 30+ art, craft, and foodie stalls — plus live music to set the mood.
📍 Kai Tahi, 20 Parumoana St, Porirua | 🕒 11:00am–4:00pm | 🎟️ Free entry

🌸 Harbourside Market
Start Mum’s day with dumplings, flowers, and sunshine on the waterfront.📍 Wellington Waterfront | 🕒 7:30am–1:00pm | 🎟️ Free

☕ Mother’s Day High Tea at Bolton Hotel
Scones, bubbles, and fancy teas at Artisan restaurant.📍 Level 1, Bolton Hotel | 🕒 12:00pm-3:00pm | 🎟️ $55 per person

☕ Mother’s Day Devonshire Tea
Treat Mum to a refined afternoon of scones, jam, cream, and charm inside Lower Hutt’s historic Robert Orr Homestead. Includes tea, nibbles, and a wander through this beautifully preserved heritage home.📍 132 Kings Crescent, Lower Hutt | 🕒 2:00pm | 🎟️ $30 per person

🚂 Dementia Wellington Heartland Flyer
Hop aboard a vintage steam-and-diesel train adventure through the stunning Manawatū Gorge — now closed to road traffic. With views, snacks, and charm galore, it’s a full-day rail trip to Woodville supporting a great cause.📍Various Stops | 🕒 7:50am–7:05pm | 🎟️ Price vary

🛍️ Waikanae Beach Mother’s Day Market
Treat Mum to a morning of handmade treasures, local honey, award-winning olive oil, garden art, and more at this friendly indoor market on the Kapiti Coast.📍 Waikanae Beach Community Hall, 22a Rauparaha St | 🕒 10:00am–1:00pm | 🎟️ Free

🛍️ Ōtaki Craft Market
A vibrant outdoor market full of handmade goods, native plants, vintage finds, and kai galore — from hangi to waffles. Family-friendly and packed with local flair.📍 58 Main Highway, Ōtaki | 🕒 10:00am–2:00pm | 🎟️ Free

🍄 Autumn Fungi Walk at Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush
Join expert Geoff Ridley to explore the hidden world of native fungi on this gentle afternoon bush walk.📍 Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush, Wilton | 🕒 2:00pm–3:30pm | 🎟️ $6.15

🦙 Walking with Alpacas
Take a scenic stroll through Paraparaumu with your very own alpaca buddy! A fun, family-friendly experience that’s equal parts calming and adorable.📍 Cantharis Alpacas, 105 Waterfall Rd, Paraparaumu | 🕒 10am–12pm | 🎟️See website

🎨🍻 Paint & Pint – Paint Your Mum
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a drink in one hand and a paintbrush in the other! Join this fun, guided art session at Double Vision Brewery and create a masterpiece inspired by Mum.📍 Double Vision Brewery, 128A Park Rd | 🕒 12–2pm | 🎟️ $33.30 incl. a pint or wine on arrival | All ages (under 18 with adult)

🍎 Pick Your Own Apples – Molewood Orchard
Wander the rows and fill your basket with fresh, sun-warmed apples at this family-run Greytown orchard. A wholesome, all-ages outing with picnic spots and stunning orchard views.📍 Molewood Orchard, 17 Mole St, Greytown | 🕒 9am–4pm | 🎟️ Free entry, pay per kg

🎶 Americana Jam
Local musicians gather for a relaxed backyard session of folk, blues, and roots. 📍 Hilltop, Kelburn | 🕒 3:00pm–5:00pm | 🎟️ Suggested Donation $30.75 each

(Phew – what a lineup! There’s truly something for everyone in the mix. Remember to check event links for any last-minute changes or ticket requirements. Have fun out there!)

🌦️ Welly Weather Watch

🌧 Friday: Showers and breezy northerlies. High 18°, low 9°
⛅ Saturday: Cloudy morning, clearing late. High 15°, low 8°
☀️ Sunday: Mostly fine and cool. High 15°, low 9°

💕 Extra Sprinkles – The Free Store

The Free Store rescues surplus food from cafes and redistributes it to anyone in need — no questions asked. Every weekday evening, their Willis Street container turns into a sharing space powered by volunteers. They’ve saved hundreds of thousands of meals from waste, all while supporting Wellingtonians doing it tough. Learn how you can get involved here.

Thanks for buzzing through another epic edition of WellyBuzz with us. Enjoy the weekend, hug your mums or mother-figures tight, and make the most of the cool-but-beautiful autumn days. We’ll be back in your inbox next Friday with more local goodness. Until then, have fun and stay safe out there in the best little capital in the world!

Ngā mihi nui,
Kirstie & Steve 🐝

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