Hawke's Bay has plenty of activities and events for people of all ages to enjoy. We list six of the best on offer this weekend.
(1) Monowai Estate Open Day
Head along to the picturesque and welcoming Monowai Estate for their annual open day today. Set amongst the vines in Crownthorpe, the winery welcomes all wine-lovers and visitors to enjoy some of the best food, wine and music the Bay can offer. Make a day of it to look behind the winery scenes and how it is all done, and ask questions about the whole process of winemaking. Enjoy some paella for lunch from Paella a Go Go while listening to the laid-back sounds of Rick Toner. At Monowai Estate, 1793 Matapiro Rd, Crownthorpe. Today from 10am to 5pm and all ages welcome.
(2) National Eventing Championships
Eventing is the triathlon of equestrian sport and an Olympic sport at which New Zealand excels, so here is the chance to see up-and-coming local talent alongside some of the best in the country at Arran Station in CHB today and tomorrow. The weekend will include the three disciplines of dressage, showjumping, and cross-country with both male and female competitors. Head along at no charge and check out the spectacular dressage and showjumping, then for $5 per vehicle - pay as you arrive on the day - get up close to the incredible cross-country action. There are some magic viewing spots from the bank overlooking the course where cars can park. There will be food and drink stalls on the grounds to take care of lunch cravings. At Arran Station, Fraser Rd, Takapau. Today and Sunday from 8am to 4pm. All ages and free.
(3) Village Street Carnival 2016
For one action-packed Saturday they are closing the roads of Havelock North for the Village's biggest fun day of the year. It will be huge, and enjoyment is top of the list for a party you'd be crazy to miss. Havelock North will again deliver a great family day out chock-full of events that the whole family will enjoy. There will be buskers, artists, free rides, artisan growers and supplier and many diverse food stalls. The whole village will come alive with a great carnival vibe. Today from 10am to 3pm. All ages and free to head along to.
(4) Wairoa Halloween Drag Queen Ball
A fun Saturday night out with chums or just a Halloween night out. Head along to Takitumu Marae in Wairoa and have some fun with the drag queens from Family Bar in Auckland. You will be provided with a yummy roast dinner, side buffet and desert. This is a BYO event, however you will be given a wine with dinner. At Takitimu Marae , Waihirere Rd, Wairoa. Tonight from 6.30pm to 11pm. General admission is $50 and it is R18.