Cultural Day
Thursday, 20 November 2025
Te Ahurea | Culture and Connection
Join us for a day exploring Wellington’s creative scene, libraries, and natural beauty. Choose your morning activity and afternoon adventure!
Morning Activities (Choose One)
Option 1: Wētā Cave Tour
9:00am - 12:00pm | Behind-the-scenes tour of the iconic Wētā Workshop
Experience the magic of Wētā Workshop, home to the creative minds behind The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, and countless other films.
- Guided tour of movie props and behind-the-scenes exhibits
- Interactive experiences and photo opportunities
- Perfect for film lovers and Tolkien enthusiasts
- Cost: $99 NZD per person (paid to conference organisers)
- RSVP required - Conference organisers will book and pay Wētā on your behalf
- Limited spaces available
Option 2: Te Papa & Wellington City Libraries Tour
9:00am - 11:30am | Guided tours of New Zealand’s national museum and Wellington’s innovative library spaces
Explore two of Wellington’s premier cultural institutions with expert guides.
- Wellington City Libraries guided tour - discover innovative library spaces and services
- Te Papa Tongarewa (New Zealand’s National Museum) guided tour - explore Māori collections and New Zealand history
- Free - RSVP required for group coordination
Midday: Craft Crawl
12:00pm - 3:30pm | Wellington’s craft beer scene
Explore Wellington’s vibrant craft beer culture with stops at three iconic venues:
- 12:00pm: Garage Project / Fortune Favours
- 1:30pm: Goldings Free Dive
- 3:00pm: Malthouse
Afternoon: Choose Your Own Adventure
12:00pm - 3:30pm | Self-guided activities (link up with others!)
Not interested in the craft crawl? Create your own Wellington experience! Suggested activities:
- Lunch at Karaka Café
- Zealandia Ecosanctuary
- Matiu / Somes Island
- Wellington City cultural walk
- Mount Victoria lookout walk
- National Library of New Zealand
- Cable Car & Botanic Gardens
- Carter Observatory
Evening: Cricket & BBQ in Eastbourne
5:30pm - 9:00pm | Cricket practice and barbecue at Eastbourne Sports & Services Club
Join us for a traditional Kiwi cricket experience and barbecue in the beautiful seaside suburb of Eastbourne!
Location: Eastbourne Sports & Services Club, 48 Tuatoru Street, Eastbourne, Lower Hutt 5013
The club is also a meeting place for the RSA (Returned Services Association). You will see some references to military service, mostly referring to WW1 and WW2. As a mark of respect, people take their hats off inside.
Meeting Points:
- 3:30pm: Malthouse (for those on the craft crawl)
- 4:00pm: Ferry terminal (for everyone else)
- Ferry departs: 4:30pm sharp
- 5:30pm: Meet at the club to get acquainted with a bat before team training starts at 6:00pm
Transport:
By Bus: Catch the 81 bus (preferred - faster route) or 83 bus to Eastbourne. Get off at Stop 9851 Muritai Road (near 247). Walk towards the ocean and you’ll see a large grass field - you’ve arrived! We’ll be outside if the weather’s fine, or inside if it’s wet.
By Ferry: Queens Wharf – Days Bay ferry service available if weather permits!
Activities:
- Cricket nets practice session led by Eastbourne Cricket Club - learn cricket from the experts! (equipment provided)
- Traditional Kiwi barbecue with sausages (both meat and vegan options)
- Full bar available (cash and card accepted)
- Scenic beachside setting with harbour views
Want more food options? The Eastbourne Sports & Services Club has a full menu available for purchase.
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing (Wellington can be windy!)
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen and hat
- Camera
- Open mind and adventurous spirit
Registration
Cultural Day activities require separate registration. More details coming soon!
Contact and Enquiries
For questions about Cultural Day activities:
- Email: organisers@kohacon.org
He taonga te tangata - People are a treasure