Wairarapa Balloon FestivalThe Wairarapa Balloon Festival kicked off on Thursday and there are still opportunities to catch the action. Head down to Henley Lake this morning from 7am until 9am for the Resene Splash n' Dash competition. At this free event you will see balloons launch upwind of the lake and attempt to score points through a variety of exciting skill challenges. If you're a late riser there is always the Trust House Night Glow at Solway Showgrounds tonight from 5pm. Tethered balloons will light up the night sky in a dazzling display set to music. Entertainment, music, night markets and aviation displays will entertain the whole family in the lead up to the glow. A range of food and drinks will be available to purchase on the night and tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children. Under-5s are free and family passes are $30 at the gate. If your Saturday is already booked you can check out the balloons from the Martinborough Town Square on Sunday morning from 7am until 9am.
Green Dollar MarketAlternatively, start your weekend with a trip to St Johns hall in Greytown from 9.30am to 12.30pm today to see what Green Dollar Market has to offer. Cash, Green Dollars and WAIS vouchers will be accepted by stallholders and there is a lovely selection of original Wairarapa-made crafts and goods to choose from including jewellery, soap, candles, knitwear, clothing, books, artworks, plants and seedlings, jams, relishes and other spreads from Wairarapa produce, and a small selection of pre-loved bargains. There will also be hot and cold food.
Cheap FakesCheap Fakes, a six-piece brass-infused band from Brisbane, Australia, are performing at King Street Live tonight, supported by Wairarapa band Circa. This will be a homecoming gig of sorts for Cheap Fakes' frontman and guitarist Hayden Andrews who originally hails from Carterton. This will be one of the last nights at King Street Live. Tickets are $12 and doors open from 7pm.