I can’t be sure but as well as having the highest number of cafes proportionate to the population Wellington must have the largest number of cinemas. There are all shapes and sizes and a film festival running in one cinema or another all the time.

Trips to the movies were regular things when we first moved to New Zealand but after a few evenings being blown up Courtney Place by a southerly whilst we waited ages for a bus we seemed to settle into a routine of DVDs on the TV instead.

To avoid becoming couch potatoes we renewed efforts this week to get back out to the movies and think we’ve found the perfect solution. A lounge cinema!

Not a new concept I know but a growing breed in NZ. Small cimenas (often with more than 1 screeen) with excellent cafes with plenty of parking. The real treat is your very own sofa to sit in, complete with cushion and lovely wide arms to put your drinks and snacks on.

We went to see Notes on a scandal which was a fabulous movie and well worth watching blog readers if you get the chance. Dame Judi was very spooky but still up to the usual high standard of acting.

Anyway, the point of it all is that New Zealanders have civilised movie going into a fine art. You can get a drink (alcoholic if you like) and take it, and the accompanying nibbles with you in to the cinema. If it wasn’t for the other 30 people also on sofas eating their nibbles you’d think you were actually in your own lounge.

You’ll be pleased to know I am sure that there is a lounge cinema in Upper Hutt (10 minutes drive from Kaitoke) so we’ll continue to be well served when we move to the country.