New parklets popping up in time for summer

Parklets have become more popular across the city with business owners seeing how successful they have been for other restaurants and cafes. 

These pockets of outdoor space can bring more people and activity to a street while leaving footpaths clear for people passing through. 

They can also add more plants, art, seating, and bike or scooter parking to a neighbourhood, supporting zero or low carbon ways of moving around the city.

Currently, there are 11 existing parklets in the city, with the additional four popping up over December and January of the new year. 

The most recent parklets that have opened are at BL3, a new bar on Courtenay Place, Puffin Wine Bar on Ghuznee Street and Burger Liquor on Willis Street. 

Other businesses such as the Wellington Seamarket, The Hangar and Evil Twins are in the process of getting a parklet. 

Dan Haycock from Burger Liquor says that his neighborhood burger joint has been serving the community for 10 years, and the parklet will continue to add to the vibe of his restaurant. 

“We love a good time so aren't shy to turn the music up and love slinging tasty cocktails and fresh beer too. We have been doing this here in the heart of Wellington for 10 years now.

“We think it is just a great way for us to serve our community in other ways, like for an after work drink in the sun. Or a warm breezy way to get out of the office for lunch. We decided that it would help out business but also bring more life to Willis Street. The coolest cities in the world have so many things like this. We are stoked to be able to do this.”

When it comes to people claiming that Wellington weather is too unpredictable to be able to sit in a parklet, Dan says it hasn’t stopped people yet. 

“Plenty of people have been using it! Even though the weather hasn't been amazing yet, we still get guests out there enjoying some fresh air. We can't wait for summer and better weather.”

Hannah Wells from Puffin Wine Bar echoes Dan's thoughts, and encourages people to come enjoy a wine in the sun.

"Puffin just turned five this year so this area was a great way to extend what we already offer and provide an opportunity for people to enjoy a wine in the sun! We have been such a cosy winter spot for so long that this felt like a nice addition to round out the year.

"We've had some wonderful summery days so far and it's been great to see the space enjoyed by people. It also seems like a nice addition to the other areas around us like Rogue and Regent with their grass area and balcony." 

Wellington City Council Urban Designer Jessie Zhou says parklets help people enjoy streets in a different way.

“Parklets enable businesses to transform car parking spaces to outdoor dining and green spaces where people can connect and enjoy the streets in a unique way. Done well, they support city safety with more passive surveillance on the street, all while contributing to attractive streetscapes without compromising accessibility and people’s ability to use the footpath.”

Information and a design guide are available on the Council’s website so interested businesses can work out if an area near them could be used for a parklet. Or, you can contact parklets@wcc.govt.nz for more information.