19 March 2013

Sporting Chance for a Wellington Weekend

New Zealand’s capital is heating up with more winter sporting action than you can shake a stick at. From historic matches to capital clashes, Wellington’s got all the goods for a good time.

Aussies Rule
Witness a whole new ball game this ANZAC Day as the St Kilda Saints take on reigning premiers - the Sydney Swans, at Westpac Stadium. In an international first, the two teams will compete for points as part of the 2013 AFL premiership season in a showcase of speed, skill, strength and stamina. Adult tickets start from $25; kids from $5.

When the Saints come marching in, stay four nights at West Plaza Hotel and only pay for three. AFL is on the mind at James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor but in the form of accommodation, food and lager - enjoy one night’s accommodation in a Lambton Room and you’ll receive a bowl of fries and two complimentary beers. Alternatively, stay at the Bay Plaza Hotel and enjoy a hearty breakfast before the ANZAC Day action.

Before the game, visit Zibibbo Bar and enjoy their ANZAC Day special – a tapas platter with two glasses of house wine or tap beer for $40.

Capital Clash
On 11 May, Westpac Stadium becomes the Vodafone Warriors home away from home as they take on the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs in a ninth-round NRL capital clash. The Vodafone Warriors will be kitted out in Wellington colours to mark the first home game outside of Auckland in the team’s history. Ticket prices start from $25 adults and children from $10.

Basketball Business
On 27 May, witness basketball like you’ve never seen it before as the Harlem Globetrotters take to the TSB Arena. Think ball-handling wizardry, basketball artistry, and one-of-a-kind sports entertainment. Tickets start from $49.

For more hoopla, Wellington plays host to the SKYCITY Breakers on 12 September in their 2013/2014 pre-season game against the Melbourne Tigers. Get a taste of NBL action and cheer on New Zealand’s basketball best. Tickets on sale 28th March.

Battle for the Bledisloe
Get a taste of Bledisloe Cup action on 24 August. For the first time since 2009, you can support the All Blacks from Wellington’s own Westpac Stadium as they battle our favourite neighbours, Australia, for Bledisloe supremacy.

Capital’s Collection
The capital’s favourite teams are also in full force this winter. Watch Wellington’s Haier Pulse compete in the 2013 ANZ Championship in a showcase of trans-Tasman netball rivalry at its best. Or get along to Westpac Stadium and support the city’s Super Rugby team, the Hurricanes. With two wins in a row under their belt, the team’s looking like a force to be reckoned with.

Get Crafty
A trip to the capital for a sporting clash wouldn’t be complete without a visit to a craft beer bar. Made with the attention and care usually reserved for mothers of small children, craft beer is as tasty as a nice meal out and as refreshing as a Wellington southerly breeze. Stop by the Fork & Brewer (14-20 Bond St), Malthouse (48 Courtenay Place), Hashigo Zake (25 Taranaki St) and The Hop Garden (13 Pirie St); be sure to put in your order for a Wellington Tuatara, Garage Project, ParrotDog or Yeastie Boys brew.

Market Potential
After the action, recharge your batteries by visiting one of Wellington’s popular weekend markets. Foodies in town on Saturday can enjoy a taste of the region at Hill Street Farmers Market (5 Hill Street, 9am-1pm), while the waterfront is the place to be on Sunday, courtesy of the Harbourside Market (7.30am-2pm) and City Market (8.30am-12.30pm) combo. With powers combined, the two ensure Wellington’s waterfront is the number one weekend destination for top quality local cuisine and entertainment.

Café Confidential
If you missed the markets, but are in need of a feed, visit Wellington institution Fidel’s Cafe (234 Cuba St). Order off the menu, or try their great counter food and be sure to give the Snickers milkshake a go. Duke Carvell's Swan Lane Emporium (6 Swan Lane) is a hidden gem just off Cuba Street - a stylish restaurant with lots of tidbits to look at. They have a classic brunch menu with a few daring alternatives like lamb's brains. And if you’re on your way to the airport, cruise around the coast and park up at Lyall Bay’s Maranui Cafe (7 Lyall Parade). If it's a nice day, grab a seat on the deck and take advantage of the view.

Ends…/

© Scoop Media