Munkustrap from the NZ production of Cats. Photo / Supplied
The New Zealand Opera's Tosca is just what you'd expect from the Italians: Aa passionate story of lust, revenge and sacrifice. Gorgeous sets, the Auckland Phil playing live and singers Orla Boylan, Teddy Tahu Rhodes. Grown up treat.
Details: Saturday, 7.45pm, plus Wednesday 23, Friday 25, Sunday 27. Aotea Centre.
Cats - The Musical is the show you have to see at least once in your life. This Andrew Lloyd Webber classic was revived in London's West End (scooping awards and rave reviews), has had a whole new look. Stunning costumes, clever sets, dancing to die for...and some of the quirkiest show tunes you didn't know you knew.
Details: Season extended to October 11. Civic Theatre.
Auckland Zoo is celebrating their fluffiest friends with Red Panda Weekend with panda encounters at noon and 2pm. Learn all about them at the information station, and get your photo taken with Rufus the Zoo's friendly red panda character.
Details: Saturday and Sunday, 10am-3pm. Auckland Zoo.
If you're thinking this is the summer you really would like to sail, go with the float at the Dinghy Expo at Westhaven. Plenty of boats to view on and off the water and even some to try out. Who knows, you could be the next Sir Peter Blake. Bring your bike and pedal around the beaut Westhaven boardwalk while you're in the 'hood.
Details: Today, 10am-3pm. Westhaven Marina, Adjacent to Pier Z.
On Sunday, both Motat and the Museum are commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain - one of the definitive aerial battles. New Zealand Warbirds perform an aerial salute at 11am over MOTAT (plus check out the armoured personnel carrier and steam train rides ). Auckland Museum's cenotaph has for the RNZAF parade, memorial and flyover.
Details: Motat, Sunday 10am-5pm. MOTAT
New book, New Zealand’s Best Gourmet Pies, features 38 unique pies and their origins.