What's on this weekend

Pizza making at Newmarket's Festival Italiano.

Handpicked, the best activities for your weekend agenda.

1. Ciao bella

To coincide with the Italian Film Festival, Newmarket is hosting the annual Festival Italiano on Sunday. There's al fresco dining, an Italian market with over 30 stalls, live music and entertainment - including special guest Italian aficionado Sir John Kirwan. Delicious food, of course, spot prizes (one is a trip to Italy, mamma mia), and a line up of gorgeous Ferraris and Italian motorbikes. Dress like you're in Milano.

Details: Sunday, 11am-4pm. Osborne Street and Kent Streets, Newmarket.

2. Whatever floats your boat

The Viaduct basin is once again home to the Auckland On Water Boat Show (really, why would you bother with any other sort)? From the yacht gin-palace to powerboats, paddleboards and jet skis, plus fishing gear for the optimists - over 200 exhibitors. A mariner's paradise in a supersized floating showroom. Saturday has a world record attempt for the most people on a stand up paddleboard: 20-metres long, 52 brave paddlers, led by Quiksilver SUP team rider, Troy Huston. While you're there, pop across to the Dangerous Duties open weekend at the Voyager New Zealand Maritime Museum - see how the rescuers work, try out vessels, be aware of the dangers at sea.

Details: On water boat show, Saturday (10am-6pm), Sunday (10am-5pm). Viaduct Events Centre. Voyager New Zealand Maritime Museum, Saturday, Sunday, 9am-4pm.

3. Geek paradise

The second Digital Nationz sees the return of tech toys, gizmos and gaming to Vector Arena. No need to head to Las Vegas's Consumer Electronics Show, 'cos we have our own here. Check out game previews and prototypes (Creed Unity, Creed Rogue, Far Cry 4 and more), innovation workshops, international speakers and the first LAN parties and pro championships (up to 500 players compete for $30,000 prizes). Drive electric cars, see new green tech ideas. This show has everything.

Details: Vector Arena, Saturday 10am to 6pm, Sunday until 5pm.

4. Talent Spotting

Imagine if you spot the next Lorde or The Checks: Smoke Free Rock Quest is where they first turn up. With a round-up of nine finalist acts who have made it through over 40 heats from the Far North to Invercargill, this is their big moment for fame and fortune. Support them, delight in them, place bets on tomorrow's stars.

Details: Saturday, 7pm. Q Theatre, Auckland.

5. Cultural colour

The Visit Malaysia Carnival feature fabulous foods from the many cultures of Malaysia, with cooking and craft demonstrations, eye popping cultural performances and competitions. Go in the draw to win a trip for two to Malaysia, check out travel options and more.

Details: Sunday, 11am-6pm. ASB Showgrounds, Auckland.