Latest from Festivals

Auckland Writers Festival special: A sneak peek at Dervla McTiernan's gripping new novel
We're celebrating this year's festival with extracts from some authors on the programme.

Simon Wilson: Shaun Hendy's warning on the Covid lessons we're still to learn
OPINION: A new book by the Covid modeller is a compulsive read with provocative ideas.

'Significant win': New Homegrown host city confident in pulling it off
Homegrown is returning to its roots and being welcomed with open arms.

'Ready and excited': New location for Homegrown festival revealed
Homegrown is returning to its roots, dubbed an 'unbeatable location' by the local mayor.

From pop stars to Bluey on tour: What's on in Auckland this weekend
Everyone's favourite Australian cartoon dog is coming to town.

Where to next? This guidebook can set your next trip up
A snapshot of the latest travel news and fresh experiences.

Tauranga's Jazz Festival a must-do this Easter weekend
The Port of Tauranga National Jazz Festival has something for everyone even in the rain.

Spice up your spring season with these travel events
Blooming festivals, farm visits, adventure runs, and unique walks to try this season!

Watch: Timelapse video reveals NZ’s tallest mural on side of building
Jacob Yikes used 250 litres of paint and 200 spray cans for the 55m mural.

Fan’s nose fractured after Stan Walker’s drummer throws drumsticks into crowd
The drummer has apologised after the Homegrown incident.

Things to do in Auckland this weekend: Ecofest, Everybody Eats and Auckland Arts Festival
Plus get globally inspired at the World of Cultures Festival and the Auckland Travel Show.

Hundreds turn out for festival despite strong winds grounding balloons
The Balloons over Waikato Festival kicked off today.

‘We all had a ball’: Close to 5000 people taste the best meatballs in Hastings
Around 4500 to 5000 people attended the inaugural Hastings event.

Why mau rākau workshops captivated Womad festival attendees
Mau rākau helps youth manage emotions and connect with their cultural identity.

Punk rock and ADHD: Rachael King’s new children’s book is personal and musical
The Christchurch author has a new book - and a new song (sort of).

Love at first meatball: 'There was chemistry across the bakery'
'As we were both quite young some of the conversations were a bit raunchy.'

Your ultimate guide to Auckland’s must-see events this weekend
There are plenty of activities to keep you and the family/whānau busy.

Simon Wilson’s Love this City: Strawberry fair, transport fares and Phil Goff’s future
OPINION: There are zero rumours that Goff would run again for mayor. But imagine it...

Fritter Fest celebrates a decade of smooth tunes and tasty eats
The festival is celebrating a decade of showcasing the best of our culinary talent.

‘Inappropriate’ symbol: Swastika pendant removed at festival
Organisers said it went against the festival's kaupapa of inclusivity.

The ultimate guide to NZ’s top gigs and festivals this autumn
Summer may be leaving us behind, but New Zealand's music scene is still heating up.