The Christchurch Arts Festival gets an extra touch of winter magic with the installation of the Ice Dome in Cathedral Square. The indoor rink will be open to skaters of all ages and abilities, and will also host demonstrations and performances. The festival features an extensive programme covering all performing and visual arts. It runs July 23 to August 9.

Contact: (03) 365 2223
On the web: artsfestival.co.nz

Tartan tribute
Pipe band parades, a tribute to Robbie Burns, a midwinter swim, Highland dancing and a Scottish-themed ball are some of the events scheduled for Waipu's Tartan Week, June 27 to July 4.

Contact: (09) 432 1234
On the web: breambay.co.nz

Northern lights
The Whangarei Mid Winter Arts Festival runs July 24-26 and showcases talented performers across a range of art forms. It's preceded by fringe events such as the Festival of Light and Colour at the Quarry Arts Centre, July 18-26. Every evening the grounds will be transformed into a glittering wonderland, culminating in a lantern parade and fire show on July 26.

Contact: (09) 435 4113, 027 235 5943
On the web: mwaf.co.nz

Sweet as
Dunedin's precipitous Baldwin St rattles with the sound of rolling Jaffas during the Cadbury Chocolate Carnival, July 11-17. The iconic Giant Jaffa Race is one of many chocolatey events including theatre, train excursions, cooking demonstrations, art classes, a gala day, magic shows, fashion parades, beauty therapy, and a winter ball at Larnach Castle.

On the web: chocolatecarnival.co.nz

Fuel for winter
Hamilton's top venues host the Fuel Festival of New Zealand Music, July 1-5. It features performances from top local and national musicians, ranging from classical to cabaret, and rock to reggae.

On the web: fuelfest.co.nz