A Sweet Start to the Day

As an advocate for sustainable travel, I often find myself drawn to experiences that not only delight the senses but also support local communities and eco-friendly practices. The Wellington Chocolate Tour was a perfect fit for my ethos. My journey began with a slight twist, as the iconic Wellington Cable Car was undergoing its annual maintenance. However, this unexpected change led to a delightful surprise. Our guide, Stella, and her partner graciously picked us up in their Tesla, a nod to eco-conscious travel, and drove us to the top of the hill for a breathtaking view of the city.

From there, we embarked on a leisurely walk through the Wellington Botanical Gardens. Although it was August and the gardens weren’t in full bloom, the serene beauty of the landscape was still captivating. The gardens, a testament to Wellington’s commitment to preserving natural beauty, set the tone for the rest of our chocolate-infused adventure.

Chocolate and Culture Intertwined

Our first chocolate stop was La Petite Chocolate shop in Thorndon, a short walk from the gardens. This charming shop offered a delightful array of chocolates, each crafted with locally sourced ingredients. As I sipped on a rich hot chocolate and sampled three different types of chocolate, I couldn’t help but admire the artwork on the chocolate bars, created by local artists. It was a beautiful fusion of culinary and visual arts, highlighting the vibrant cultural scene in Wellington.

Continuing our journey, we strolled through a quaint street, passing the iconic Beehive, before arriving at Bohemian Chocolate. Here, we indulged in gelato and chocolates, including a unique variety featuring Hokey Pokey, a New Zealand specialty. This stop was a reminder of the importance of supporting small businesses that celebrate local flavors and traditions.

A Sweet Finale

Our chocolate tour continued with a visit to Le Ciel, where we enjoyed a well-deserved rest with cake and tea. The portions were generous, and the cakes, crafted by a passionate young entrepreneur, were a testament to the creativity and dedication of Wellington’s small business owners.

As we approached the end of our tour, we visited Devonport Chocolates, housed in a historic building that once served as a bank. The transformation of this space into a small mall was fascinating, and the chocolates were, of course, delectable.

Our final stop was the Wellington Chocolate Factory, where we had the opportunity to see the chocolate-making process firsthand. The factory’s commitment to transparency and quality was evident, and it was a fitting conclusion to a tour that celebrated both the art of chocolate and the spirit of Wellington.

Reflecting on this experience, I realized that the Wellington Chocolate Tour was more than just a culinary journey; it was an exploration of the city’s culture, history, and commitment to sustainability. It was a reminder of the joy that comes from supporting local artisans and businesses, and the importance of choosing travel experiences that align with our values. I left Wellington with a heart full of gratitude and a renewed passion for promoting eco-friendly travel.