Four of the best: Culture swaps

Eleanor Goldsmith learned how to appreciate the Japanese tea ceremony. Photo / Steven McNicholl

It's time to enjoy new cultures, right here on our Auckland doorstep.

1. Learning Japanese
The New Zealand Japan Society runs Japanese language courses through the term (classes finish for this year in November, restart February 2013). Check out the tea ceremony club, performances for Taiko dance, the fast-paced Karuta card game or even the best of softball.

2. Korean cooking
Experienced chef Michael Choi teaches signature and contemporary Korean dishes such as kimchi and bibimbab ("mixed rice" with sauteed vegetables), meat bulgogi (Korean barbecue) and gochujang (chilli paste).

Places limited to 20 people per class, $120 per person. AUT School of Hospitality and Tourism. Ph (09) 921 9999 extn 8012 or email: jessica.yamamoto@aut.ac.nz. Next classes today, Dec 1 and 8.

3. Bollywood fitness
Not dance but a full body workout to Bollywood music, said to be exceptionally easy and fun, suitable for all age groups and all fitness levels.

Sessions at Mt Roskill War Memorial Hall, 13 May Rd Mondays and Wednesdays, 6.30pm-7.30pm; Allan Brewster Recreation Centre, Papatoetoe, Fridays 7pm-8pm or New Lynn Community Centre, Saturdays 11.15am-12.15pm. Sports Recreation and Outdoors Trust has further info.

4. Spanish Night Market
Auckland's only Spanish night market with the best of Spanish and South American cuisine and artisan products, all at affordable prices. More than just paella, here you can feast on arroz con pollo, empanadas, churros, choripan, alfajores, crema catalana, tapas, Spanish beer and wines, and loads more.

Hispanic Club, Level 3, Premier Building, 2 Durham St East (180-184 Queen St), Auckland. Friday nights Nov 16, 23, December 7, 14 and 21, plus every Sunday 12pm-2pm.