Kelly Weaver and Kendra Cox at the Armageddon Expo. Photo / Jason Dorday
This is the biggest gaming event of the year Armageddon is back. With massive displays from all the big names, comics, sci-fi, anime and toys. There'll also be movie screenings, eating contests, amusement rides, zombie alley, animation stars, laser tag, live wrestling and more more more. Costumes optional.
Details: Today, 6 - 9 pm, Saturday, Sunday 10am-6pm, Monday until 5pm. ASB Showgrounds.
Awwww, who doesn't love the Topp Twins with their wicked humour, even wickeder harmonies and original songs. The Grand Ole Topp'ry, touring the country, is one heck of a hootenanny of country and western, bluegrass, comedy and gospel with special guests. Bring your nana, bring your kids, it's that kind of show.
Details: Friday and Saturday 8pm, Sunday 4pm. Bruce Mason Centre.
Elbow the small sorts out of the way as you head to the Auckland Brick Show - the largest fan-created Lego display in the country. Millions of bricks with the models including a 4 metre-long love boats, plus planes, castles, Star Wars, Technics, Classic Space and more. With prizes to be won and new and second had LEGO for sale, this will be epic.
Details: Friday until Monday, 9am-5pm. ASB Stadium, Kohimarama.
It's time to start working on your summer looks (hats and fascinators, check; pretty frocks, check; blokes in suits, check) for the Ellerslie racing season, kicking off on Saturday. Themed London Calling, the Contiki Whips n Spurs has a taste of London with a flutter on the pretty ponies and the chance to go in the draw for a fabulous Contiki 10 day Europe Summer Tour. Plenty of entertainment between the races, great food available and a party you don't want to miss.
Details: Saturday, gates open 11am, Contiki Whips n Spurs opens 12.30pm. Ellerslie racecourse.
Western Springs Stadium hosts Auckland's first ever Soulfest - the best of RnB, funk join forces with the newest neo-soul, jazz and hip-hop artists. Seven spectacular international artists include first-time visitors Maxwell, D'Angelo, Anthony Hamilton and Angie Stone. Just as well there's a terrific soul food for sale, and plenty of great drinks and coffee. Cool, relaxed and friendly start to summer.
Details: Sunday, 1pm - 10pm, Western Springs Stadium.
NY Times: It blocks harmful UV rays but still lets enough sunlight through for benefits.