Aucklanders' rates have given a $46 million boost to 10 rescue, safety, arts and cultural groups in the past four years and a further $14 million gift is proposed for the 2013-14 year.

The orchestra's second Inspired by Bach concert on Thursday dispensed a flurry of fugues, with toccatas and chorales on the side.

Jools and Lynda Topp's Pakuranga Bowling Club alter egos almost brought the Civic's roof down.

A week ago, 18 hopeful young violinists were in Queenstown, contesting the elimination rounds of the Michael Hill International Violin Competition; on Saturday night, three were vying for top honours.