Market Days
Auckland is celebrating summer with some wonderful - and free - central city markets and events. Britomart's Big Day Out runs from 8am to 1pm today, with stalls, food and entertainment to keep the whole family entertained. Later in the afternoon, just up Queen St at Aotea Square, there will be performances by Massive Company's energetic Massive Nui Ensemble from noon, which is a must-see. Minnie St in Kingsland is busting out face-painting and storytime for the kids, and a bit of shopping and free boxing and yoga classes for the grown-ups from 9am today. On the waterfront at Silo Park, the markets and food stalls will be in full swing, along with a special visitor at the ASB Santa's Bach from 10am, while over the bridge at Smales Farm there is a fun food market and a special outdoor screening of Home Alone from 7.30pm.
Xmas sing-a-long
Choral performances
Surround yourself with some wonderful music this weekend to get into the festive mood. This afternoon, the APO is celebrating Christmas with a performance at Parnell's Holy Trinity Cathedral from 3pm with special choral guests. Tickets from $26. The Auckland Youth Choir also performs Christmas favourites today, from 8pm at St Patrick's Cathedral in the central city. Entry is free.
Tomorrow, the Pakuranga Choral Society presents The Joy of Christmas from 2pm at All Saints Church in Howick. Tickets $25 for adults, $10 for children.
Community Caroling
There are some fun carolling being done in your own backyard, too. Pt Chevalier Community Carol Service is happening today from 5.30pm at the Church of Church of the Ascension. Entry is free. In Glen Innes, the Christmas Stars event is on at Mayfair Place Square from 3pm, with carols as well as food stalls and cultural performances. On Waiheke, Carols by the Sea will fill the air at Little Oneroa Beach today from 5pm, and tomorrow, Silverdale celebrates with Christmas in the Village from 7pm at the Pioneer Village.
Coca Cola Christmas In The Park
For more than 20 years it's been the holiday event of the year - and 2015 is no different. MC Matt Gibb will be joined by musical stars including Avalanche City, Jessica Mauboy, and The Voice Australia's Caleb Jago-Ward, for a sing-along for the whole family.
Tonight, from 7.30pm. Auckland Domain. Free entry.
Place your bets
Ellerslie Christmas at the Races
Witness some of New Zealand's best thoroughbred racing, plus all the fabulous fashion, entertainment and food you would expect at this electric day out. Bring a picnic or secure your spot in this stands to be part of the party atmosphere.
Tomorrow, from noon. Ellerslie Racecourse, 80 Ascot Ave. Free general admission, Ascot Stands $10.
Bathe in history
Parnell Baths book launch
Discover the rich history of these favourite 101-year-old pools at the Parnell Baths:
A Jewel in Auckland's Crown book launch.
Witness a spectacular water ballet display, from the Wet Hot Beauties, and then stick around for an early evening swim.
Today, 4pm-5pm. Parnell Baths, Judges Bay Rd. Entry free for spectators, $6.30 for adult swimmers (under-16 free).
Sporting chance
Auckland pro-wrestling training day
Reckon you could be the new Hulk Hogan?
Test your skills at this training day where you will be put through your paces in all aspects of wrestling - and might even get a chance to compete in the evening showcase.
Today, 9am-7pm. Mania, 2/335 Sandringham Rd. Tickets $60.
Thunder in the park
Start your engines. This action-packed weekend of non-stop V8 racing is a must-see family event for petrol heads young and old alike.
Today and tomorrow from 9am. Pukekohe Park Raceway, 222-250 Manukau Rd.
Entry $20.
NZ Ocean Swim Series
Make an early move this morning and head down to the harbour to watch the dedicated swimmers as they make their way across all 2.9km of the Auckland Harbour.
Today, 7.30am-11am. Wynyard Quarter. Free for spectators.
Ironman 70.3 Taupo
While we might be enjoying the season's excess, these athletes are at the peak of their game. Cheer them on as they swim, bike and run their way around the picturesque Lake Taupo.
Today, from 7am. Great Lake Centre, Story Place, Taupo. Free for spectators.
