Karaka Café’s on the Whairepo lagoon is an amazing sun trap, usually well-sheltered from the elements.

Beanbags on the lawn are a popular attraction, so you’ll have to move quickly. And then very slowly, once you’ve marked out your beanbag territory. Watch members of the Wellington Rowing Club doing sporty things while you don’t have to, and let the day float by.

We recommend checking out the snack and platter menu, especially Whakapipi Iti (sliders trio) ($15) and Kaimoana Wera (seafood nibbles) ($18/$22) and accompanying this with a glass of New Zealand wine. Breakfast and lunch is available too. It’s hungry work, lounging in the sun while people bring you delicious bites, right?

Brownie points for complimentary use of sun hats (pink cowboy hat, anyone?), and the regular offer of sunscreen from Karaka’s friendly staff. However if the sun’s a bit much, Karaka has a spacious, breezy interior providing shelter from the elements.

Karaka is an ideal lunch-break haunt, take time out of your busy working day and enjoy.