Whangamata Summer Festival.
Whangamata Summer Festival
This is the place to be if the beach is getting a bit much for you. Kicking off with fun rides for the kids, including bouncy castles and slides, this summer festival hosts a night market with loads of stalls and live music.
Starts tomorrow, 4pm-8pm. Williamson Park, Whangamata. Free entry.
Pauanui Waterways Kids Duathlon
Rather than a competition, this is all about participating, having fun and achieving a goal. The course is designed to be challenging, but safe and achievable - just what sport should be all about for kids. There are lots of spot prizes to be won.
Monday, 8am-10.30am. Waterways Parade, Pauanui. Entry $20 for first child, $15 for every subsequent child.
Children's Discovery Trail
Start a journey into an enchanted world of secret themed gardens. Behind every door, a magical story and a portal to far-flung corners of the world. Download the free discovery trail sheet from the gardens' website to find where the bees, hens and woodland creatures are hiding.
Today and tomorrow, 8am-6pm. Hamilton Gardens. Free entry.
A Gypsy Extravaganza
Roll up, roll up. This colourful event is sure to put a smile on your face. Take your pick from arts and crafts, funky jewellery and retro clothing, healthy food options (and those traditional favourites like candyfloss and homemade fudge, of course) or just kicking back and watching the travelling musicians on stage to pass the holiday weekend.
Tomorrow, 9am-5pm. Raglan Rugby Club, cnr Cross St and Park Dr, Raglan. Free entry. On Facebook.
Summer Walk and Talk with a ranger
A short guided walk with one of the park's knowledgeable staff, who can let you into all the secrets of the wonderful Waitakere Ranges Regional Park. Suitable for all ages this easy walk will take in some of the highlights of Arataki.
Today and tomorrow, 11am-2pm. Arataki Visitor Centre, 300 Scenic Dr, Waiatarua.
The New Zealand Herald Boxing Day Races
The Boxing Day races are an institution, featuring on Auckland's social calendar for more than 150 years. Always a great day of high fashion, entertainment, and premier thoroughbred racing, grab your form guides and pack a picnic of Christmas leftovers for a wonderful day out, with entertainment from iconic Kiwi singer Jordan Luck and friends.
Today, from 10am. Ellerslie Racecourse, 80 Ascot Ave, Auckland. General admission $20.
Interislander Summer Festival Rotorua Races
Swap the high heels and suits for shorts and jandals, gather the kids and soak up the summer atmosphere at this relaxed family day out. There is plenty to keep the whole family smiling with face painting, games and goodie bags as well as the action on the track.
Tomorrow, from 11am. Arawa Park Racecourse, Fenton St, Rotorua. General admission $10 (children under 18 free).
Taupo Thoroughbred Racing Club
This inclusive racing club is celebrating its 50th anniversary this summer - and they are putting on a heck of a party to mark the occasion. The massive family picnic day will see lots of fun and games for the whole family, as well as some serious business on the track with the professionals racing for a stake of $20,000 in the Taupo Cup.
Wednesday, noon-5pm. Taupo Racecourse, Centennial Dr. Entry $10.
Rerewhakaaitu Rodeo
Watch as some of the most talented and experienced cowboys and cowgirls take on well-bred horses and bucking bulls. It is bound to have a real Kiwi country atmosphere.
Today, 9.30am-4.30pm. Rerewhakaaitu Domain, Rotorua. Entry $10.
The new free open-air saltwater pool is already proving popular.