Something Different this Valentine’s Day

words by niall roeder

Whether you believe in star-crossed lover and chivalry laden schmoosh, or you’re being expected to produce the romantic goods on February 14 by your lovesick “better” half, you should try something different on Valentine’s Day in Wellington.

We take a look at Wellington’s different Valentine’s Day options:

Wellington Zoo
Love is instinctual, right? There is romance in the animal kingdom. Female praying mantis’ eat their partner’s head after sex, but never mind that – penguins mate for life, so let’s focus on that cuteness. Wellington Zoo is holding a tender after-hours tour with themed talks about the romantic exploits of animals. There’ll be live music from The Ratbags and if you really want to impress the pants off your date, the zoo keepers will arrange a hamper and Close Encounter.

Picnic Spots
You’ve hand-picked a place to lay the rug, prepacked the brie and Sauv Blanc, and there’s no lining up, bill-paying or disturbances in sight – how can a picnic possibly fail? Wellington Picnic spots include Otari-Wilton’s Bush, Mount Victoria, Waitangi Park and the Botanic Garden. Note – We take no responsibility for rain ruining your picnic.

Carter Observatory
Aphrodite’s Delight at Space Place (Carter Observatory) is offering a Valentine’s Day package that includes admission to Space Place, a planetarium show detailing the romances of Greek mythology, telescope viewing (weather dependent) and delicious sweet treats for two. Besides all of that, you’ll obviously have the chance to drop plenty of cheesy pick up lines and astrological puns, like “you’re out of this world” and “you’re the brightest star”. Because we all know these work 70% of the time, every time.

Bug Lab
Bug flicks and chill? This is a date night for entomologist couples or those wanting something totally different on Valentine’s Day. Bug Lab is an exhibition at Te Papa that includes a gory tour of the evil genius of bugs, hosted by Binge Culture Collective, as well as fun at Te Papa’s rooftop bar and music from DJ Taco Hutt.