KEY POINTS:
Matariki down south
Southland's Matariki Festival incorporates music, drama, black light theatre and fire performance that will enchant the whole family. Performances will be held at 6pm on June 7 and at 2pm and 6pm on June 8. It's at the Civic Theatre and costs $10 (adult), $5 (children), plus booking fee.
Contact: (03) 211 1412
Email: angela@venturesouthland.co.nz
Matariki at the Mount
Tauranga's Matariki events include an exhibition of works by local artists that interpret the celebration and a series of lectures about the Matariki constellation. There are day and night tours up and around Mauao (Mt Maunganui), an outdoor concert on June 6 and a day for kids to make and fly traditional manutukutuku (kites) on the beach.
Contact: (07) 578 8103.
On the web: www.bayofplentynz.com
By the Bay
Hawkes Bay also has an extensive series of Matariki events throughout the region, ranging from food, fun and fireworks in Wairoa to traditional Maori hand games in Hastings. A full listing is online at www.matarikifestival.co.nz.
Hibiscus art
The Art at the Estuary exhibition and sale runs from May 29-June 2 at the Estuary Arts Centre, 214B Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa. Works range from paintings to ceramics, fibre, glass and garden art. It's open 9.30am-4pm Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and 9.30am-3pm Monday. Entry is by gold coin, with proceeds going to the Hibiscus Coast Hospice. Tickets to the preview night on May 29 cost $25.
Contact: (09) 421 9180
On the web: www.hchospice.org.nz
Solstice at Stonehenge
Stonehenge Aotearoa near Carterton is a full-scale working adaptation of Stonehenge built by the Phoenix Astronomical Society. At 4.30pm on June 21, the ancient Celtic ceremony of the Winter Solstice will be held on site. It's followed by a Winter Solstice dinner and a presentation by astronomer Richard Hall. Bookings are essential.
Contact: (06) 377 1600
On the web: www.stonehenge-aotearoa.com
Southern special
Take winter indulgence to new heights with the special deal from Peppers Bluewater Resort at Lake Tekapo. For $170 per night, the "Hot Winter Deal" includes breakfast and accommodation in a studio room with an upgrade to a Lake View Villa, subject to availability. Other conditions apply.
Contact: (03) 680 7000
Email: bluewater@peppers.co.nz
