This Weekend: What's on around Auckland

Tackle a trail run, LOL with Sara Pascoe head out to the boat show or visit the Writers Fest, featuring Eleanor Catton. Photos / NZ Herald, file

From books to boats, the outdoors and the last LOLs - there's plenty on the cards around Auckland this weekend.

Auckland Writers Festival

The gala opening last night was packed, with lots of laughs and a few serious moments. Festival Director shared the scientific fact that poets and writers (and, surely, then readers?) get more sex. The sessions of Eleanor Catton and our favourite Alexander McCall Smith may be sellouts, but you can stretch your mind as clever writers talk about food, family, architecture, war and science. Check out books editor Linda Herrick's hit list. We'll be Instagramming and Tweeting our personal highlights.

Details: Visit the website for the full programme.

Last laughs at Comedy Festival

The last (but certainly not the least) of the Comedy Festival LOLs are up this weekend with a couple of Nicks - Gibb and Rado - the smart observations of Sara Pascoe and funny man James Roque - among others. The Last Laugh finale will happen at Sky City Theatre Sunday night.

Details: Check out the full programme on the website here.

Hutchwilco Boat Show

Modestly billing itself as the best boat show in Australasia, the Hutchwilco Boat Show will build a Big Boat Marina to showcase the latest trailer powerboats, engines, electronics, and boating accessories. You can shop at the country's largest fishing supermarket, have a go at sailing and get the kids lined up for some fishing and fun. Prizes include a $100,000 boat, heli- and kayak- fishing experiences and more.

Details: ASB Showgrounds, Greenlane. Until 9pm tonight, Saturday and Sunday 10 to 6pm. Website here.

XTERRA Train Run/Walk

One of the longest running trail run and walk series, the Blackmores XTERRA Series is back for its 11th year. This weekend it's for varying fitness and age levels, and head out of the city with mid and short courses are available as walks too, From 8km to 20 km plus plenty of challenges for the super-fit folks building up for the season of seven runs.

Details: Riverhead Forest, Sunday. Website here.

Check out this weekend's weather:

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