Auckland to expect culinary invasion

Duke Carvell's Cafe in Wellington.

The capital is planning a culinary invasion of New Zealand's biggest city.

Some of Wellington's best-known bars and restaurants will be at a "pop up city" at Silo Park on June 25 and 26 to show off some of the best of the capital's food and drink, including craft beer and bespoke cocktails.

Auckland Chamber of Commerce chief executive Michael Barnett reckoned the Wellingtonians could be shooting themselves in the foot.

"They might discover there is a real audience here with real spending power and the danger is, they will want to stay."

Positively Wellington Tourism chief executive David Perks, however, insists his team will hold their own in the City of Sails.

"Fantastic flavours and great hospitality to match are an integral part of our city's culture."

The event, dubbed The Capital, will highlight some of Wellington's celebrated establishments such as top eateries Logan Brown and Grill Meats Beer.

Others taking part are Six Barrel Soda, the Hawthorn Lounge, Duke Carvell's, Flight Coffee Hangar and the Wellington Chocolate Factory. Trendy Italian cafe Scopa, The Library, the Garage Project, ParrotDog, Ti Kouka and the Leed Street Bakery will also be represented.

The Capital is invite-only, but WellingtonNZ.com is giving away 10 double passes.