During the inaugural Wellington On a Plate festival more than 40 cafes and restaurants participating in Dine Wellington will offer set lunchtime menus, as well as dinner and other specials. Other events include banquets, a comedy dinner, theatre lunches, gourmet helicopter tours, behind-the-scenes kitchen tours, cocktail training, and much more.
It runs August 17-30.
On the web: wellingtononaplate.com
Aspire to adventure
Everyone from adrenalin junkies to armchair adventurers will be inspired by the selection of action sports, travel, endurance, and cultural and environmental films screening at the Queenstown Adventure Film Festival, July 3 to August 4.
On the web: adventurefilmfest.co.nz
Winter by the river
Winter packages offered by Takou River Cottages near Kerikeri follow themes of either romance, gourmet food or winter warmth. Two self-contained cottages set in peaceful gardens share a riverfront pavilion with outdoor claw-foot bath and a potbelly fire. Also on-site is romantic Magic Cottage, which has its own outdoor bath overlooking the river. Valid until September 30.
Contact: (09) 407 8065
On the web: takouriver.com
Art on sale
Art lovers should head to the New Zealand Affordable Art Show, which runs July 31 to August 2 at Wellington's TSB Bank Arena. Work from around 800 selected artists will be on show, with pieces priced between $100 and $5000. The show covers all genres from oil painting to glass art, and many artists will be available to talk to visitors.
Contact: (04) 387 4370
On the web: affordableart.co.nz
Cruising into summer
The new small luxury ship Ipipiri will offer overnight cruises in the Bay of Islands from spring. The opening special of $199 per person, twin share, includes a night's accommodation in a state room, afternoon tea, dinner, breakfast, island activities, and transfers from Paihia accommodation. Valid until November 25.
Contact: 0800 653 339
On the web: overnightcruise.co.nz
