Support Local - Our Midyear Faves
It’s hard to believe it’s already August, this year has gone by in the blink of an eye! Reaching the midpoint of the year has had us reflecting back on some of the incredible homes we’ve seen, lovely people we’ve met and all the local businesses we’ve visited so far this year.
If you’re a regular reader of our weekly Bulletin or this Journal, you’ll probably be familiar with our Support Local series. Each week we have our team meeting at a different local business and film it to share with all of you. We’ve been running this Support Local series for over 2 years now and it’s always a highlight of the week. There are so many incredible established and newly opened spots in our city and we just love having an excuse to check them out!
So, today we wanted to take a look back at our six favourite spots that we’ve visited so far in 2026, from inner city cafes to spots a little further afield, here are our top picks…
Sixes & Sevens
1 Market Lane, Wellington Central
Sixes & Sevens is a Wellington favourite and after their recent move to Market Lane they now offer even more cosy seating options. This cafe has a great brunch menu, some incredible counter food offerings and of course, excellent coffee.
Check out our Support Local video here
Poppies Martinborough
91 Puruatanga Road, Martinborough
If you ever find yourself over the hill in Martinborough, Poppies is one of our favourite spots to enjoy a glass of late harvest riesling and one of the best charcuterie boards we’ve ever seen! The setting at Poppies is incredibly tranquil and with plenty of seating options, it has more than enough room to cater for a celebration or large group.
Check out our Support Local video here
Squirrel Cafe
4 Blair Street, Te Aro
Keeping it super local, Squirrel is just a short stroll from our office and connected to one of my favourite homeware stores, Small Acorns. This cosy cafe offers a refined but delicious menu, counter food and great coffee, and bonus points for their adorable resident pooch!
Check out our Support Local video here
Seashore Cabaret
160 The Esplanade, Petone, Lower Hutt
Heading out of the city to the seaside streets of Petone, Seashore Cabaret is an explosion of retro decor and character. As the sister establishment to the iconic Maranui, this spot offers the same eclectic charm and a delicious brunch, lunch and dinner menu, all with an epic view of the ocean.
Check out our Support Local video here
Cutie Pie Pizza Workshop
31a Waitoa Road, Hataitai
This little spot in Hataitai is one of our new favourites, run by Tommy (of Tommy Millions Pizza) Cutie Pie offers classic pizza pies, as well as their own pizza making workshops. We loved the food, friendly staff and bright green decor, a true local hub for Hataitai!
Check out our Support Local video here
Kazu Yakitori & Sake Bar
43 Courtenay Place, Te Aro
It wouldn’t be a Support Local roundup without a shoutout to one of our favourite spots, Kazu Yakitori and Sake Bar! Tucked away upstairs at 43 Courtenay Place, their balcony is one of the best people watching spots in the city and whether you’re popping in for lunch or dinner and drinks, their menu is extensive and absolutely delicious.