Once again, writing on this space has been pushed to the bottom of my list. I should really be making time to put something here, again, to document the things we’ve been doing. Anyway, last month, we made the most of the sunny days. Every weekend, we took the kids out to different places (lots of beach time) in Wellington. I think this summer has been really good, compared to previous years.
When you come over to Wellington, you’ll visit the usual tourist spots, which are all nice, of course. But here are a few places to visit when you’ve done most of the touristy bits.
Makara Beach and Wind Farm
Makara is a good 30-45 minute drive away from the city. On the way, you’ll pass by several farms and end up on the beach. It’s a popular place for hikers, who start out on the beach and then go up to the Wind Farm.
We haven’t been to Makara since before the start of lockdown last year. The beach itself is not really for swimming (mostly for crabbing and fishing). The waves can be too strong, but it’s good enough if you want to be near the sea, throw some stones and chill for a few hours. Afterwards, you can drive up to see the wind turbines. The view is always awesome.
Raumati Splash Pad
About an hour and half drive out of the city is the Raumati playground. The splash pad is open during the summer, so this was a hit with the girls.
Chocolate Fish Café
Located in Shelly Bay, the Chocolate Fish Café is an iconic Wellington restaurant. I love their whitebait fritters (yum), and the girls love their outdoor play area. This is really great for families.
Red Rocks
Over on Owhiro Bay, we frequent the Red Rocks reserve for the girls to play with water. There is a 10-km hike if you would like to see the seals colony. I haven’t had the chance to do the hike, maybe when the girls are a bit older.
Waikanae Beach
Going out of Wellington about an hour’s drive away is Waikanae Beach. The water here is a bit warmer than those in the city. On the day we went, it was a bit windy and the waves were quite wild, so we mostly stayed near the shore.
Visiting these places, plus attending some parties and getting the girls in their classes have certainly kept us busy last February. But I wouldn’t have it any other way. Husband and I get exhausted, for sure, but keeping the girls happy is always our number one goal.
