HOW did you end up where you are today?
I moved to Wellington about seven years ago to study acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine. While settling into Te Whanganui-a-Tara, I connected with the vibrant rainbow community and found myself drawn into the city's thriving queer and drag nightlife scene. It's been a creative and transformative journey ever since. It's taken me some incredible places across Aotearoa and given the most amazing memories with the most amazing friends.
WHY Wellington?
Wellington really stood out to me (I could have studied in Auckland too) because of its vibe, walkability, and buzzing nightlife. It's cozy, cool, and has a unique charm that's hard to resist. One of my favourite things about this city is that you can grab a cheeky dairy-free cake and coffee at almost any time of day or night – thanks, Midnight Espresso!
WHERE is your #1 overseas destination?
I can never say no to a cheeky shopping trip the ditch, but I do need to expand my overseas travels. Berlin is high on my list—I'd love to explore its incredible art, nightlife, and queer culture one day.
WHAT are you listening to/watching atm?
I've been really into The Shacks lately and love exploring a good 'artist radio' to discover more music. As for shows, I've been winding down in the evenings with Vox Machina. It's such a fantastic series—proof that D&D will never die!
WHO are your current sources of inspiration?I'm preparing some super-secret drag performances for the not-so-distant future, and I've been diving into the '90s for inspiration—think boy bands, grunge, and pop rock! I'll forever be a teenage dirtbag, baby. Come to all my shows and maybe you can see it!
Shop Manson's fit: here
TWT x Manson Williamson
Late last year, we had the most fun time, hanging with our mates & capturing the "TWT" experience.
A few of our regulars were kind enough to support the cause, & in the spotlight this week is none other than superstar Manson Williamson. Manson works as an acupuncturist, and moonlights as drag queen extraordinaire @the_selina_simone - follow the page to catch performances across the country throughout the year!
We love the gorgeous energy Manson brings into the shop, and loved having this grace and sass to work with on our shoot!
We chatted with Manson about Wellington and current sources of inspiration -