Close to home: Busking all over

World Buskers Festival in Christchurch. Photo / Supplied

For amazing street theatre, head to Christchurch for the World Buskers Festival, January 20 - 30. Circus, mime, puppetry, aerial acts, musicians and magicians are part of a huge line-up. Adults will enjoy the R18 Pacific Blue Buskers Club.

On the web: worldbuskersfestival.com

Family adventures

This summer River Valley near Taihape is offering several family adventure holidays, ranging from a half day to three days. Adventures may be centred on the Rangitikei River, or horse riding, or a mix of both. Some involve overnight camping, while others are based at River Valley Lodge.

Contact: 0800 248 666
On the web: rivervalley.co.nz

Train your palate

The new Wairarapa Grape and Grain Escape is a one-day train and coach package that incorporates visits to a Wairarapa vineyard, and Tui Brewery in Mangatainoka. It includes beer tasting and a special Kiwiana lunch. It departs Wellington daily at 8.25am.

Contact: 0800 471 227
On the web: tranzit.co.nz

Flying free

Queenstown's Ziptrek Ecotours' new Kea 6-Line Tour includes the world's steepest tree-to-tree flying fox. The eco-adventure starts near the Skyline Gondola and takes thrill-seekers through the air at speeds of up to70km/h. Participants must be over 10 years' old.

On the web: ziptrek.com

Race on down

For a family-friendly day at the races, check out the Interislander Summer Festival programme. It kicks off on Boxing Day and offers 30 events throughout the country.

On the web: theraces.co.nz.