KEY POINTS:
Take off in style
This spring, flying enthusiasts can take a classic DC-3 Dakota from Ardmore Aerodrome to Mt Maunganui for a weekend of aviation-themed activities. The Classic Flyers Weekender includes return flights, a choice of classic aircraft or helicopter flights, buffet brunch and food voucher for the AvGas Cafe at Classic Flyers Museum, car rental and accommodation. Packages are available September 1 & 2 and September 29 & 30, subject to weather conditions. Each trip takes up to 28 people, and costs $495 a person.
Contact: (07) 572 4000
Email: admin@classicflyersnz.com.
On the web: www.classicflyersnz.com
Arts showcase
The Christchurch Arts Festival takes place July 26-August 12. Events encompass theatre, dance, music, comedy and visual art, with more than 350 performances, ranging from large-scale circus to solo soprano. The 35 venues include theatres, concert halls, a carnival tent, galleries, shopping malls, and on the streets of Christchurch. Tickets are on sale now and all dates and details are online.
On the web: www.artsfestival.co.nz
Three sevens
On Saturday (which is 07/07/07), everyone's invited to Havelock North to grab a piece of chalk and get creative. The pavement art event is to raise awareness of climate change on Live Earth Day, and budding artists will have to impress and inspire the judges within a time limit of 7+7+7 minutes. Many prizes can be won, and there'll be a lively village atmosphere with a jazz band and trade displays. It starts at 10am outside the Village i-SITE, and BYO chalk is recommended.
Contact: (06) 8779600
On the web: www.villageinfo.co.nz
Leg it to mid- winter fun
The Whangarei Mid-Winter Arts Festival celebrates the region's varied community arts scene, with stages for buskers and performers, theatre, a full programme of children's entertainment, workshops, exhibitions, and an extensive artisans' market. It happens July 20-22 at Forum North, the Whangarei District Library and the Community Arts Centre.
Contact: (09) 435 4113
Email: artisans@igrin.co.nz.
On the web: www.midwinterartsfestival.co.nz
Cold enough
This Saturday, the winterless north label will be put to the test during the Russell Winter Birdman Festival. The festival promises fun for the whole family, with four hours of activities, including a Beach Dig for kids aged 10 years and under, kayak races, a barbecue cook-off, and a spaghetti-eating competition. The feature event is the Birdman Jump at 1pm. Food stalls will be on site, and entertainment will be provided.
Contact: (09) 403 8020
Email: info@russellinfo.co.nz.
Southern style
The popular Peugeot Hokonui Fashion Design Awards will be held at the Gore Town & Country Stadium on July 27 & 28. The Hokonui Strictly Design evening on July 27 costs $25 and features all competition designs. The Awards Gala Evening on July 28 features all competition designs, design showcases, entertainment and the award presentations. It also includes entry into the "after fashion" function. Tickets cost $55 general admission, $75 corporate. Bar facilities and refreshments are available both nights.
Contact: (03) 202 7829
On the web: www.hokonuifashion.com
