What's on this weekend

Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show. Photo / Supplied

We've handpicked five of the best things to head to this weekend.

1. Float your boat

One of the country's longest-running shows, the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show has water toys for boys (and girls) galore. Check out the Aquakids zone, a trout aquarium, try the latest in kayaks and marvel at the human-powered submarine, the Taniwha, plus some terrific prize draws if you're at the right place at the right time.

Details: Saturday, Sunday, 10am-6pm. ASB Showgrounds, Greenlane. Kids get in free.

2. Write stuff

The annual Auckland Writers Festival has once again broken ticket sales records, with a terrific line up of authors. There's a special family day for the kids on Sunday, plenty of free sessions, loads of debates and piles of books to buy. Indulge your word nerd.

Details: Saturday and Sunday, Aotea Centre and Art Gallery.

3. Havin' a laugh

Comedy festival brings back Stand-Up for Kids, a crazy interactive show where some of the festival's funniest comics find their inner five year old, hosted by Jarred Fell. Plus there's a ton on for the grownups, too (last shows Sunday).

Details: Saturday, 3pm. Q Theatre.

4. Eat around the world

The local eateries of Mt Roskill, Hillsborough and Lynfield - all 37 of them - are bringing back the Taste of Puketapapa. Each joint showcases a signature dish from $5 - $12 - grab a passport from any participating restaurant, from Kiwi pies and cupcakes, to the best of Asia and beyond.

Details: Until May 21.

5. Bright ideas

If you loved the stimulation of TEDx Auckland, head out to the island to find out what ideas have been percolating in the Gulf at TEDxWaiheke 2015. Twelve speakers on the theme of positive deviance share inspiration on music to the environment, humanity to history, science and culture plus great food.

Details: Saturday, 10am-6pm. Waiheke High School, Surfdale.

- nzherald.co.nz