Overview
When summer comes calling, so does the hankering to be outside in the fresh air. Here in Wellington, we have an abundance of scenic spots that are picture-perfect to view the sunset. We may be a big-little city, but we definitely aren't lacking in the nature department either. Grab a picnic blanket, some friends and make an evening out of it. In partnership with Rekorderlig, here are five scenic spots to watch the sun go down in Wellington.
Capture Studios
MOUNT VICTORIA
Most of Wellington City has a liquor ban over it, but we have sourced a few beautiful spots where you can enjoy both a casual drink and the outdoors. Mount Victoria is at the heart and overlooks the city, giving us breathtaking views of every angle of Welly. Bypassing the ever-popular summit, there are certain secluded spots where you can relish in the evening sun and get that Instagram-worthy pic.
If you enter at the end of Majoribanks Street, you will see a sign for the Southern Walkway. If you walk slightly up, you will quickly find a small field of grass that faces towards the ocean. This here, has got to be one of Wellington's best kept secrets. It's cool, it's quiet and it is absolutely a spot where anyone can make use of the golden hour.
HATAITAI
Hataitai spreads over the Southern flank of Mount Victoria, therefore, totally susceptible to radiant views. Although there are a number of stunning spots to watch the colours fade into the night in Hataitai, Evans Bay has sealed the deal for us. Situated right by the sea, we couldn't think of a better spot to marvel at the bursts of oranges, pastel pinks and blues across the sky. The views are honestly like something from a dream and similar to a Van Gogh painting. This spot is ever-so-slightly out of the hustle and bustle of the city, making it the ultimate location to sip on a cool beverage and then make the short stroll back into the city.
Zkarj via Flickr
LYALL BAY
Lyall Bay is absolutely all it is cracked out to be. The rumours you've heard? They're true. The crescent shaped beach will give you views for days. This spot is usually populated with the early brunch goers to Spruce Goose and Maranui, but it also sports an impeccable beach. And an impeccable sunset, come nightfall. An ideal spot to settle down on a picnic blanket and let mother nature do her thing. It's almost guaranteed you will spot a few dogs going for their sunset strolls along the beach too, which is a win in our books. Don't forget to bring mosquito repellent (you will thank us later).
Alica Anton
KILBIRNIE PARK
Kilbirnie Park is usually occupied with footballers, rugby players and cricketers. But when it comes to the sun going down, the sport enthusiasts more or less, vacate. The field is placed across the road from the ocean, which seems to attract the most spectacular sunsets. If you're an aviator nut, this is the spot for you. The park is only a stone's throw away from Wellington Airport. There's something very special about watching planes come and go against a canvas of orange. Snuggle up as you sip on a cold one and gape at the eye candy in the sky.
Aiden via Flickr
SKYLINE WALKWAY
The Skyline Walkway runs from Karori to Johnsonville and holds the history of Wellington within its tracks. For example, Old Coach Road Heritage Track was the first formed road to connect Johnsonville to Ohariu Valley. Funnily enough, its popular name is incorrect since no coaches ever used the road in the 1850s when it was built. Lucky for you, it is now a track that can be walked upon with stellar views. A picture-perfect situation would be to pack a backpack, along with walking shoes and make an adventure out of it.
The walk to Mount Kaukau is the most spectacular of them all if you're looking for sunset spots. The Mount is bountiful with its 360 degree view of the entire city, Wellington Harbour, the Rimutakas and Tasman Sea. It is simply overwhelming with its spoilt-for-choice scenic views.
To start your summer sundowner adventure, grab a four pack of Rekorderlig's new Arctic Berries range.