A Ruth Pretty Christmas Cake, or High Tea at Hippopotamus?

I know I am biased, but when I give, I like to support Wellington as much as I can.

This Christmas inspiration for gifts has come from a variety of favourites. I’m just here to share!

HEMA Water – a Wellington standout has a Christmas deal. A case (12 bottles 750ml) of lightly carbonated Hema spring water delivered to your door in Wellington city for only $40. I give Hema water for those who are tricky to buy for, and darn it, it’s healthy luxury! Contact Donyale Hema directly at donyale@hemawater.co.nz.

High Tea Voucher – another winner is a voucher for two for High Tea at Hippopotamus at Museum Hotel. Glamour plus and earns great brownie points from the lucky recipients. Visit the gorgeous front of house team at Museum Hotel for this chic treat. High Tea vouchers start at $30 per person.

Ruth Pretty Christmas Cake – OK, we may overdo this in our family giving them annually to our aged mothers, but they love it. Kirkcaldies is the only place to buy it; exceptional packaging with real Christmas flair. $56 per cake.

Cheap and Cheerful for the Kids – last Christmas I made my own vouchers for the kids to enjoy the child-friendly bungy jump at Frank Kitts Park. They could redeem it at a convenient time to suit the family, and we enjoyed a family treat with Mum paying the $10 per child on arrival at the bungy jump after they hand over their vouchers to Mum.

Home Harvest Gardeners’ Lavender Scrub – I discovered the fabulous Home Harvest stall taking tours on Saturday mornings and stopping by the Frank Kitts Market. This is great scrub for the feet, and only $14. Visit the stall on a Saturday morning or www.homeharvest.co.nz to buy online.

HEMA Skin Care Online – speaking of online, a Wellington treasure, HEMA Skin Care, now has an online store. Buy classic gifts like Millennium Oil online at www.hemaproductsonline.com for yourself or others. Gift vouchers are on the way, just ask.

Best Christmas Buffet – oooooh, if you can find a free booking you must try the Christmas buffet at Wakefields at West Plaza Hotel, Monday – Friday during December. Take a friend as a Christmas treat. At $24.95 you get full Christmas fare, plus lots of smiles from very friendly staff, and sometimes a pianist plays beautifully in the background. We’re big fans.

2012 Festival of the Arts tickets – with a few extra dollars to spare, just do it! We only have the privilege of hosting this world-class festival every two years. Don’t hesitate to buy now early. My pick, Circenses (Circus Ronaldo – Belgium), a treat for all ages and quite simply the perfect Wellington Christmas gift.

Enjoy the city this Christmas, there is much to celebrate.

Jennifer