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Many in New Zealand can claim Irish ancestry, but even many of those without a drop of Irish blood assert the right to celebrate on March 17.
Sure, and why wouldn't they? Auckland's St Patrick's Festival is in its 13th year, and every year it gets bigger and louder. Here's a guide to help revellers around today's events and venues. To be sure, to be sure.
The Flag
The green, white and orange flag of the Republic of Ireland flies atop the Harbour Bridge today to celebrate St Paddy's Day. Officially, the colours have no meaning, but it is widely said that the green is for the Catholics, the orange for the Protestants and the white for the peace between them.
The Mass
Mass will be celebrated at the Eden Rugby Football Clubrooms, Gribblehirst Park, Sandringham Rd, at 9.30am.
St Patrick's Cathedral
St Patrick's Cathedral in Wyndham St is open today from 10am to 3pm. It's a chance to have a good look at the extensive renovations and archaeological discoveries, and enjoy Irish food and street music in St Patrick's Square. Guided tours of the cathedral will start every 30 minutes.
The Parade
The St Patrick's Day parade goes up Queen St from 12pm, with dancers, music and St Pat himself. It will be the first St Patrick's Day parade in the world this year, And it's free.
Afterwards, head back to Gribblehirst Park for more Irish music and dance and plenty of craic. There will be an exhibition of Irish dancing from 3pm and a BBQ from 4pm.
The Pubs
* The Bog, 196 Parnell Rd, Parnell, ph 377-1510. Breakfast from 8am, $18. Dodgy and the Bastard 9am to 1pm, traditional Irish session 2pm-6pm, The Believers 8pm till late.
* The Claddagh, 372 Broadway, Newmarket, ph 522-4410. Breakfast 7am to 10.30am, $25, proceeds to Royal NZ Foundation for the Blind. Seven bands entertain from 9am.
* O'Hagans, 101-103 Customs St West, Viaduct Harbour, ph 363-2106. Breakfast from 8am, live music all day, Jigs R Us and Tumbling Dice, Connolly Irish Dancers from 3pm.
* Clare Inn, 274-278 Dominion Rd, Mt Eden, ph 623-8233. Brunch from 11am, Sean Kelly 2pm to 6pm, Jonas n' PMF 6pm to 9pm, Banned 9pm to late.
