JAANA Krause moved to New Zealand from Germany three years ago - “I soon found out Wellington was the best place to live,” she says. Outside the office Jaana likes to keep busy outdoors by tramping and running with friends - and last year she fought off a field of sprinting Santas at the annual KidsCan Santa Run to win first prize. Ahead of her title-defending run this year, we asked Jaana to share the tips she’s picked up for our city…
Insider’s tips, try… Mt. Kaukau on a clear day or get a permit from the council to light a bonfire at Princess Bay on a spring or autumn evening.
Best place for dinner… KK Malaysia and Satay Village on Ghuznee Street and Siam Reap on Dixon St.
Best value meal… Fish fresh from the boat on a Sunday morning from Waitangi market. A piece of red snapper, tuna or salmon as sashimi is beautiful. Try fresh local foods as accompaniment like roasted kumara and steamed puha with some tarakihi or moki.
Best place to drink with the locals… Small bars like Hashigo Zake on Taranaki Street. You really need to know where they are otherwise you might miss the door.
Best day trip… Tramps in the Tararuas, kayaking in the Marlborough Sounds or Abel Tasman National Park – and driving over the Rimutakas towards Martinborough, the Pinnacles or further north towards Hawkes Bay is great too.
Something special you’ve discovered about our city… It’s difficult to walk along the street without meeting someone you know.
Best bad weather activity… There is no such thing as bad weather, only wrong clothes. Put on your Gore-Tex and go for a walk on the south coast on a rainy, stormy day to watch the amazing waves roll in and enjoy a coffee at one of the cafes afterwards.
Favourite run… Whichever one it is, it should include at least one hill. I enjoy the Skyline track every time, part of the northern walkway.  We start in Johnsonville, then run over Mt. Kaukau and either through Wadestown or Ngaio and back to the city over Tinakori hill. This one has got it all – it’s a challenge, and there are great views over the harbour and good cafes for a brunch afterwards as a reward.
Top tip to run fast in a Santa suit… It’s for KidsCan, so dress up as stupid as you can and don’t worry about speed.
KidsCan Great New Zealand Santa Run, Frank Kitts Park, 6.30pm, December 7