What to give that person who doesn’t want “things”
We’ve got you sorted with gift ideas for Wellington experiences, so you can give something to do rather than something to have
Central city serenity
80 Tory Street, Te Aro, Wellington
Step into your own mini-retreat in the city at Tory Urban Retreat and pamper yourself or your favourite person. The sanctuary provides the ultimate stress-free treatments, including salt pods, sauna, a refreshing plunge pool, and massage experiences.
Purchasing a treatment for a gift is also possible and if you are getting FOMO (fear of missing out) why not book in for yourself too – it’s a win, win gift package.
A twinkly night tour
53 Waiapu Road, Karori, Wellington
Swap the Christmas lights for a more natural alternative – stars and glow worms.
A visit to Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne at night is a special experience as you get to see and hear some of New Zealand’s rare and endangered species which only come out after the sun goes down. Explore the sanctuary by torchlight as your guide leads you in search of wētā, glow worms, kiwi, and tuatara.
Gain insights into New Zealand’s natural history and the significance of the unique species within Māori culture. The tour ends with a replenishing cup of hot kawakawa (bushman’s tea) in the Visitors Centre.
Give the gift of yoga
Wellington is home to many wonderful yoga studios offering a range of classes from sweaty vinyasa to soothing yin.
If your giftee is into yoga with a view, Pause Yoga in Eastbourne or Space Yoga on Mount Victoria both offer stunning views of the harbour and native bush.
Awhi Yoga & Wellbeing offers classes in the heart of the city or give the gift of yoga at home with a set of Yoga With Me cards by local yogi Shirley McLeod.
Best foot first
108 Tory Street, Te Aro, Wellington
Spring Spa provides spa treatments that’ll soothe any soul. Or sole. We highly recommended the Spring Signature Foot Massage for an all-over foot makeover. Your special someone’s feet will feel reinvigorated and silky smooth for those flip flops they’ve been hiding deep in their wardrobe.
If that’s not their thing, Spring Spa has a range of skincare and beauty treatments. Gift vouchers come with a menu so they can choose what they want.
Day out on an e-bike
Shed One, Queens Wharf, Wellington waterfront, Wellington
An e-bike basically does all the work, so they’re great for riders of all levels.
Now, buying someone an e-bike won’t fit into many Christmas budgets, but a voucher for a day’s e-bike hire is a great alternative.
Switched on Bikes not only hire out e-bikes, they also offer guided tours. Co-founder of Switched on Bikes, Ryan O’Connell is the perfect tour guide with inside knowledge on cycle lanes and paths to ensure a safe ride through the city, and has tips on where to go and what to do.