Enjoy the winterless north at the Cavalli Beach House. Photo / Supplied
Enjoy the winterless north at the Cavalli Beach House. Photo / Supplied
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The Winter@Waipu Festival runs throughout June, July and August. Dozens of events are planned, including a Tartan Day on July 1 that showcases the area's Scottish heritage. Plays, poetry, exhibitions, concerts, walks, markets and parades are just part of what's on offer. A full programme is online.
Orienteering twist Explore Wellington, get fit and have some fun by joining the Wellington city safari on Sunday, May 18, with three and six-hour options. It involves teams using public transport to get to various control points around the city, including the suburbs, the town belt, walkways and some of the city's best vantage points. A travel pass is part of your entry.
Luxury up north Experience the winterless north in style at Cavalli Beach House Retreat near Matauri Bay. This exclusive waterfront lodge enjoys spectacular views over a secluded bay to the Cavalli Islands. Plenty of activities are available, but it's also the perfect place to slow down and unwind. Special winter deals are available.
Come to the cabaret The Christchurch Cabaret Festival presents international and national acts in music, song, comedy and satire. Starting on June 18, the festival offers five fabulous nights of entertainment across the city.
Wild in Wellington Take a walk on the wild side at Wellington zoo and catch some of the fascinating talks about zoo inhabitants. Regular talks include the rather creepy spider talk, a talk featuring Tahi, the one-legged kiwi, a chimpanzee talk that includes the new baby Abeni and a giraffe talk at the new giraffe house.
Get steamed up On Queen's Birthday Weekend, May 31 to June 1, the immaculately restored steam locomotive WA165 will make several return trips along the beautiful Pacific coastline between Gisborne and Muriwai. Tickets are available from the Gisborne i-site visitor centre and cost $20-$25 (adult), $10-$15 (child).
