SWEET AXE - Blog

Wellington's best Indoor Activities- perfect for a rainy day!

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 21:16:32 GMT

We've rounded up the most epic all-weather Wellington activities as cooler temperatures roll in, but don’t let the gloomy weather get you down; There’s plenty of indoor fun to be had in the Capital!

A date night that's All-thrills, no chills!

Indoor axe throwing is the perfect way to enjoy a thrilling experience while staying warm and dry. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, it's a great way to let off some steam!

We're now open for walk-ins and have options for individuals right through to groups of 60-100! It's the perfect activity for a teen birthday party or a family day out!

Pricing: Starting from $50 per person

Things to check out:

Date night meal-deals on Thursdays
Epic school holiday offerings
League nights- the best Winter sport!
In-house bar, board games

Family Friendly Rating: 9/10 (ages 12 +)

What you'll get out if it:

Sweet Axe Website

A holey Wellington Experience!

Wellyputt Mini Golf is an indoor mini-golf course with a Wellington twist! Enjoy quirky, creative holes that make for a fun and competitive experience, rain or shine. Featuring 16-holes of jaw-dropping mechanics, unique hands-on gameplay and immersive artwork.

Pricing: $24 per adult, $18 for U16’s
Family Friendly Rating: 10/10

Things to check out:

Score cards with discounts for other activities & bars in town!
The most unique mini golf holes we've ever seen!
Pop in for a round before/after catching a film at Lighthouse Cinema for the ideal rainy-day date idea (they're on the same street)!

What you'll get out of it: Unbridled fun, play, spontanaity & a sense of child-like joy! A great choice if you're short on time!

Wellyputt Website

Get out and clay!

At Karla Marie Ceramics you can unleash your creativity at this ceramics studio, where you can paint your own pottery in a relaxing, cozy environment. Try your hand at wheel throwing, handbuilding, making a mug & more. We've been several times; for team building, a special mother daughter clay date, casting workshops & more! The vibes at KMC are unmatched!

Pricing: Options for ‘taster’ classes and multi week courses, prices vary.

Things to check out:

Taster classes- a super fun introduction to pottery
Specail classes with guest ceramicists like Laurie Steer and Mae Ceramics
Gift certificates - perfect for your bestie/workmate/parent/partner or that special someone in your life!

Family Friendly Rating: 9/10

What you'll get out of It: A sense of calm, that satisfaction of getting your hands dirty & learning a new skill. Quiet connection with others.

Karla Marie Ceramics Website

Is it getting hot in here?

The Velvet Haven is sanctuary where you can escape the mundane and embrace the art of burlesque. The Velvet Haven offers a transformative experience where you can liberate your artistic expression—and, most importantly, have a blast doing it.

Pricing: Classes and experiences vary—check their website for details.

Things to check out:

The ultimate hens party packages
Comedy bulesque classes from absolute leaders in the scene!

What you'll get out of it: A feeling of fierceness, acceptance and empowerment!

The Velvet Haven Website

It's giving break-up energy!

The best remedy for a bad day- be it break up or printer jam or general state of the world? At The Smashroom Wellington you can let it out in a controlled environment! Here you can smash everything from glassware to electronics- it's the perfect outlet to unleash it all! It's a unique way to blow off some steam and have fun!

Pricing: Starting at $25 per person.

Things to check out:

The "Ex-Boyfriend Pack" perfect for those post-break-up feels
Upgrades including printers, guitars, monitors & more!
On-site board game bar!
Walk-in options available

Family Friendly Rating: 9/10 (ages 12 +)

What you'll get out of it: A release of stress, a flood of adrenaline & a whole lotta fun!

Smash Room Website

So, next time the weather doesn’t cooperate, head indoors and make the most of your day in Wellington with these fantastic spots!

The best thing about throwing axes? No space for discrimination

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 23:50:18 GMT

At a time when it seems more and more damaging and transphobic bills are being introduced and passed through parliaments around the globe, we wanted to do our part in advocating for trans and LGBTQIA folk taking up more space in professional sports.

Axe throwing is a resoundingly inclusive sport; one which embraces equality, individuality and diversity. Our community has been built on the fundamental principle that we are all equals, competing together regardless of our differences.

While the term "professional axe thrower" might conjure visions of a bearded lumberjack, it's our mission to dispel these stereotypes and continue to create more space for diversity in the axe throwing community. Axe throwing has no divisions for age, weight, gender- as you might see in other sports. There is no need for a Paralympic style division for axe throwing competitions. These are all irrelevant to a persons ability to master throwing an axe. Professional axe throwers are people of all walks of life, a spectrum of genders, outlooks and backgrounds.

Speaking personally, the fact that axes don't discriminate is why I own an axe throwing venue and it's why I love this community. When I step into a lane, it's me and my axe against a piece of timber and frankly, the gender/age/weight/race/physicality/account balance of the person I'm throwing against is irrelevant. It's a space where we can all leave that behind.

Sweet Axe's values are Inclusivity, Community and Fun. Our community considers Sweet Axe a safe space, and I feel really privileged to be one of the caretakers of that safe space.

In 2021, there was an event of an axe throwing venue in the States discriminating against & attempting to prevent a trans woman from competing in a Women's event. As devastating as it was to see such ignorant & damaging views coming out of an axe throwing venue, it sparked a massive wave of support for trans competitors throughout the axe throwing community, and resulted in an official decision from the governing body of the sport, WATL (the World Axe Throwing League), to terminate the membership of the venue in question.

We're proud to be part of a he global community of axe throwers that take a stand against transphobia.

There is no space for transphobia or discrimination of any kind here. Just space for love and axes 🪓

Sarah Hilyard
Owner, Sweet Axe

Best Covid Safe Date Ideas in Auckland

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 22:57:20 GMT

Give love the green light while COVID restrictions have us in red light

It’s almost Valentine’s Day and we are in the red light setting. Are all your romantic dreams dashed!??! Heck No! Don’t let the red light put a hold on all of your plans! We've found the best Valentine's Day date ideas for red light settings in Auckland. You want in on the info? We’ve got you covered. Here is our list of best Valentine’s Day Date Ideas for Traffic Light Red:

Explore together

(C) Clearyak 2022

Take a breath of fresh air and see Motu Hāwere ā Maki (Goat Island) Marine Reserve from all angles! If you and your partner in crime feel like doing something both romantic and special, check out Clearyak. During this unique experience, you're likely to see a variety of fish such as Snapper (tāmure), Red Moki (nanua), Blue Maomao, and perhaps even some Eagle Rays (whai keo) and Stringrays (whai). The best part? Since this activity is outside, you can rest assured it’s super COVID safe and will get you enjoying the great outdoors!

Price: $60-$240 for 30-120 minutes in paradise
Website: https://www.clearyak.co.nz/

Get primal and throw axes

You read that sentence right, there’s a place in Auckland’s CBD that’ll let you release some tension while enjoying time with your loved one. You’ll be taught by one of their axe-perts how to throw an axe like a champion all the while being entertained by their witty banter. They even have a valentine’s day special where you can book a private lane for 45 minutes for you and your partner for only $180. Each lane has its own designated area in the venue so you’ll be socially distanced from any other group inside plus the extra large garage doors at the entry are always open for a boost of excellent air flow!

Price: $180 for 45 minute private lane hire for 2
Website: https://www.sweetaxethrow.com

Feast your eyes at the Auckland Art Gallery

(C) Auckland Art Gallery 2022

Offering unique exhibits from around the world, the Auckland Art Gallery has loads to discover and enjoy. Featuring artists who push the boundaries, you and your partner will have plenty to chat about as you roam the massive halls and see a variety of styles and topics being presented.

The ultimate date night? You and your beau can even join in on a life drawing lesson from 6.30pm Fridays! Set in the Gallery spaces, all materials and even some instruction is included and you can stay for as short, or as long, as you'd like.

The gallery requires masks on at all times and you won’t have any issue social distancing. Don’t take our word for it, check it out for yourself!

Price: Free!
Website: https://www.aucklandartgallery.com/whats-on/event/friday-lates-drop-in-drawing

Why not go for a little thrill?

(C) Game Over 2022

Get your game on at Game Over! Just a wee ride up Highway 1, you’ll find yourself at the ultimate fun spot with go-karting, mini golf, laser tag, and more. A romantic getaway for two or bring your whole crew in for some “lols”, Game Over is great as something a little alternative for this Valentine’s Day. Being Open during red means that they’re taking extra measures to ensure all guests are kept safe during their experience including mask wearing and regular sanitation to keep things clean.

Price: $69pp for their Adult “All experience”
Website: https://www.gameoverauckland.co.nz/

Ride my pony- no digidy!

(C) Ti Tree Hills 2022

Is there anything more romantic than a horse back riding journey? The folks at Ti Tree Hills don’t think so! Offering guided tours,( including a special “engagement tour” for those perhaps contemplating something extra special for Valentine’s Day ;) ) They’ve got both the experience and the horses to make your day extra unique. They keep their guided tour groups small which helps limit bubble merging. Additionally, you can even book in for a private tour if you’re feeling extra precautious. Go check them out and see what the buzz is all about!

Price: $60pp for 1 hour Horse Trekking
Website: http://www.titreehills.co.nz/

Go get you some food with soul!

(C) Soul Bar 2022

A soulful meal under a canopy of flowers, overlooking the peaceful waters of Auckland's Viaduct? It doesn't get much more romantic than that! The open-air dining of Soul Bar is well ventilated whether you’re seated indoors or out, you can breathe easy! They also keep tables and chairs generously distanced to help maintain proper bubbles for our red light setting. Soul Bar's selection of seafood, and poultry is to die for; we've started getting hungry just thinking about it! So take your valentines on a special dinner by heading over to Soul Bar.

Price: Approx.$30- $40 per main but varies based on selection
Website: https://www.soulbar.co.nz/

Don’t let COVID's Red Light put a stop to your romantic night. We’ve got so much to celebrate so why not celebrate together. There’s plenty to do that’s safe and fun for everyone. Now go out there and give your local some love!

turn your axe throwing game from barely there to barbarian best with these hot tips!

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 03:08:54 GMT

Keen to sharpen your axe throwing skills but not sure where to start? Here’s a list of basic pointers to help you slice through the pine like a skilled viking warrior!

Back to basics: Check your technique

Start with your feet on the black line, take a step forward with your non-dominant foot
As you step forward raise the axe straight up above your head, pointing the head of the axe straight up as you do so.
Lean forward, bringing your chest over your front foot as you lift up your back foot. With your arm/s still fully out stretched and point at where you want the axe to land.
When the axe is pointing at your target, just release!

While all of this sounds and looks simple, if you don’t have the fundamentals in place you won’t be able to progress.

you’ve got the movement sorted, it’s time to check the landing

If your axe isn’t sticking to the board, take time to assess why. After throwing your axe, watch it as it hits the board, if it hits the handle and falls, check out note 2. If the axe is hitting with the top of the head, read note 3. If you can’t see how the axe is landing it’s probably because you’re throwing too hard! Remember axe throwing is about technique, not strength so ease up a bit!

If your axe lands on the board with a rough 45° angle then you’re doing great! Keep up the good work!
If your axe landed and the handle is parallel to the board or touching the board you’re under rotating. This means you haven’t given the axe enough time to complete its rotation. To fix this, go back to the black line and move an extra 6cm back. Repeat until the axe lands at a rough 45° angle.
If your axe landed and the handle is perpendicular to the board you’re over rotating.This means the axe has had too much time to complete its rotation. To fix this, go back to the black line and move 6cm forward. Repeat until the axe lands at a rough 45° angle.
If the axe isn’t making it to the board it might be because you’re overthinking the technique or don’t believe you have enough power. EVERYONE has enough strength to throw an axe! To help power up, take an extra step back from the black line and try the “1, 2, THROW!” Instead of stepping forward with your non-dominant foot, step with your dominant foot followed by your non-dominant and throw. Focusing on the two steps will give you the extra power needed to stick that axe!
If your axe is always veering left or right of your intended target, focus on keeping your arm straight. Or adjust your starting position to account for it. E.g. if you’re always hitting the left 3 zone move your starting position further to right to account for that.

Mixing it up- experiment to find your style!

Now your axe is landing consistently, you can start tweaking your style. Just like with a science experiment try to only change one variable at a time so you can accurately see whether that variable is improving your accuracy.

Some variables you may want to test:

Change axes: Everyone has a spirit axe, some axes are a perfect fit for others but not for you.

Try a different grip: Some people are naturally gifted and can throw easily with one or two hands, try both, find your preferred method and then change it slightly.

One Hand Variations:

Move your hand further up the axe handle or further down, you might find it more comfortable and successful than the standard grip.
Thumb up - If you’re always over rotating, placing your thumb up the back of the handle of the axe is an easy way to slow your axes rotation.
The OK grip - Hold the axe with your thumb and pointer finger and very loosely grasp the rest of the axe with your remaining fingers. This grip allows you to get a little extra flick in your throw.

Two Hand Variation:

The “snail” grip - If you’re constantly over rotating the snail grip is another way to slow down your throw. With your dominant hand wrapped around the base of the handle, interlock your other hand and fingers around the axe with both thumbs pointing upwards. This creates a little snail shell (interlocked fingers) and snail stalks and eyes (your thumbs and thumbnails).

Power: Most professionals throw with a very light throw. It can be helpful to test how throwing lighter/harder affects your throw. You might find the change in power makes you more accurate.

No step: If you’re comfortable with your throw and want to attempt a no step throw, start with your toes where you would normally finish your throw. Follow the instructions above based on whether the axe under or over rotates until you get it landing at the rough 45° angle. This is a difficult technique to master and will be affected by every small movement you make. So prepare for a lot of drops as you figure out your personal no step throw.

Final tips:

If you’re overthinking try throwing, collecting the axe and then throwing as quickly as possible. The more you can drill your personal technique in without hyper analysing every movement the more fluid and comfortable you’ll become.
If your throws are inconsistent make sure to freeze your body after releasing the axe. Look at your arm, wrist, where are your feet and are you leaning enough?
Have fun: You’re throwing an axe at a target and it feels hella good! Don’t get caught up in others' scores. Axe throwing is about challenging yourself.

Finally, practice makes perfect, our Sunday Axe Addicts sessions are a great place to practice and learn from other throwers. Our axe-perts are always here to help and you can always check out our "How to Throw an Axe" playlist on Youtube!

Brittany Austin

Brittany is our Head Axe-pert in Auckland, her passion for axe throwing coupled with a background as an elementary school teacher make her a fantastic axe throwing coach!

A Freaky Friday in Windy Welly

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 05:52:57 GMT

We’ve got your guide to a frighteningly fun time in the coolest little capital. Follow in the footsteps of Officer O’Leary or choose to face your fears head on, whatever you do, don’t miss out on these awesome activities!

1. The Witching Hour- Haunted Mini Golf & Bar

Check out one of Wellington’s newest spooky spots for a bit of glow-in-the-dark mini golf. A round will cost you $18.50 per person and when the sun goes down this place becomes an 18+ venue which makes it a perfect date spot for all you thrifty ghouls and goblins. Take advantage of their Friday happy hour deal between 5-7pm and get a round of mini putt and any $330ml drink for $25. BUT BE WARNED: With supernatural themes and special effects, the Witching Hour doesn’t offer refunds to those who are too scared to finish the course. Find more details here.

2. Fear Factory on Cuba Street

Are you brave enough to enter one of the scariest places in Wellington? Our hearts were racing before we even made it into the first room! Take a walk through their Nautical Nightmare experience for the fright of your life before heading off to one of our other Freaky Friday activities. Save $10 on adult admission when you book online!

3. Sweet Axe Throwing Co.

Jason won't be the only one who can wield an axe! Make sure you’ve got the skills to send the boogeyman back where he came from by swinging in for an axe throwing lesson today. Get your crew ready and join one of our Mixed Group Sessions for only $55 per person. Book today and we’ll slash the price. Get 13% off any booking between now and September 30th with the promo code: FRIDAY13. TODAY ONLY!

4. Check out the Wellington Paranormal haunts!

From the Vic Tunnel to the Hataitai Bakery, Wellington’s most famous mockumentary has filmed all over the city. Heck, even the moving plastic “Bucket Fountain” in the Cuba Street Mall serves as a portal to the underworld in one of the episodes of Wellington Paranormal. Grab a map and check out all the nerdy details here.

5. Take your ghost hunting to the next level

With this book from James Gilberd “Spooked: Exploring the paranormal in New Zealand” you’ll be solving mysteries by day and trying not to have nightmares at night! “In Spooked, you'll encounter a range of beliefs, theories, a bit of history, accounts of actual paranormal investigations, creepy stories of ghostly encounters, and some pretty heavy science stuff that might just make the hinges of your brain creak apart.”

The Hottest Trend in Corporate Team Building: 5 Reasons Why Axe Throwing is the Ideal Bonding Activity

Sun, 05 Sep 2021 01:49:15 GMT

Let’s face it, your team is incredible and deserves a little appreciation this winter season. So what will it be? Christmas in July? End of financial year party? Social club event? Staff rewards party? Whatever your plan, just make sure it’s memorable! We all know how much “fun” bowling can be, and if we’re honest, no one really wants to hear Carol belt out “It’s raining men” at karaoke for the fourth year in a row, so why not do something different!

Finding an activity that an entire team or office will enjoy can seem like an impossible task. But, believe it or not, axe throwing can be the perfect activity for all ages, interests, and fosters an environment for team bonding.

Still skeptical? Check out our top five reasons to use axe throwing for team building.

#1 AXE THROWING IS AN INCLUSIVE & ACCESSIBLE ACTIVITY
You're limited only by your ability to listen and adjust! Axe throwing is not divided by gender, weight or physicality (even at an elite level). It's an accessible sport for people with physical limitations or disabilities; we've successfully taught people in moon-boots, wheelchairs, walkers, people who are deaf and even blind. We use tried and tested coaching methods, calmness and positivity- we are experts (or axe-perts as we identify!) at teaching people how to throw axes!

#2 LEARNING A NEW SKILL FUELS CREATIVITY & COLLABORATION- PLUS IT'S SUPER BONDING!
Taking the chance to try something new takes guts. Showing your team that they have what it takes to slice those bullseyes will give them a morale-boost and an eagerness to continue smash their goals.

Now, we understand that suggesting axe throwing might be met with some resistance- There may be staff who are not sold on the idea. We've seen people of all walks of life overcome the self talk that tells them their not strong enough or co-ordinated enough. Overcoming fear and negative self talk leaves our least confident customers brimming with pride - it's an incomparable thrill!

#3 TEAM BASED GAMES BUILD BETTER COMMUNICATION
Bringing your team together outside of the office can be a fun and effective way to improve teamwork and identify people's strengths and weaknesses.

It builds trust, increases collaboration & communication and mitigates conflict. Effective team building improves company culture and can result in more engaged employees, which is good for boosting the bottom line!

If you've noticed fractures appearing within your team, or if you're keen to reignite the excitement and bond within your work group, selecting the right activity can draw out essential communication skills. Our team-based games transform quiet groups, break the ice and get the room cheering each other on!

#4 CELEBRATE INDIVIDUALITY & SMALL WINS TO MAKE EVERYONE FEEL LIKE A CHAMPION
When was the last time a whole room of people cheered for you? For most people, it was back at graduation, or at a school sports event. Being in a room filled with positivity and cheer is the antidote to the craziness of this past year. 2020 gave us all a whooping, and we're only just starting to discover the many ways it's impacting our collective mental health.

We're not promising to cure a global pandemic but we can offer some respite and help to re-energise your team. We're all about celebrating small wins and using positivity and connection to empower. We know if you're not sinking your axe into the bullseye, it's our chance to find the explanation that resonates with you!

#5 FINALLY, AN ACTIVITY THAT DOESN'T CENTRE AROUND ALCOHOL!
While most of us enjoy the odd tipple, alcohol and team building can bring it's own challenges! Often praised as "social lubricant" more and more companies are steering clear of alcohol-focussed bonding sessions. It can be awkward and noninclusive for those who don't drink, lead to unhealthy relationships with alcohol, result in reputational damage and we've all experienced those nights where the bar tab gets a little out of control!

Axe throwing is intoxicating in itself, as coaches we see groups getting louder, chanting and cheering, talking excitedly & generally becoming more gregarious with the added bonus that they are also becoming more coordinated!