Close to home: Discover Taupo's past

Skipping stones on Lake Taupo. Photo / Supplied

Every Sunday at 2pm, weather permitting, volunteer guides from Taupo Museum lead a one-hour heritage walk around the historic Tongariro Domain, encompassing two former Armed Constabulary buildings, the old Tapuaeharuru Redoubt and the picturesque Taupo Boat Harbour. The walk is included with the museum entry fee.

On the third Wednesday of each month from March to September, there's Midday at the Museum, a series of lunchtime talks by guest speakers. The lectures are preceded by meet and greet and a hot drink at 11.40am.

Contact: (07) 376 0414
On the web: taupovenues.co.nz

Weekend in Wellington
Wellington's Queen's Birthday line-up of culture includes the Royal New Zealand Ballet's performance of Carmen at the St James Theatre, The Nero Show and theatresports at Circa, the political satire Le Sud at Downstage, and Tea for Toot at Bats. Sports lovers can enjoy basketball at the TSB Arena, and iPhone owners can download the free Welly Walks application and explore the capital at their own pace.

On the web: WellingtonNZ.com

Month of Matariki
Hawke's Bay celebrates Matariki, the Maori New Year, throughout June. Events include a Waka Ama Sprint Challenge on June 5 at Clive, a family night with a fireworks finale on June 11 at Pahiatua and similar events on June 18 in Waipukurau, and on July 2 in Wairoa. There's a magnificent hot air balloon glow in Flaxmere on June 25, and a Solstice Fair in Carterton on June 27. Details are online.

On the web: hawkesbaynz.com

Northland on fire
During Matariki the Northland Community Circus Network lights up winter with a series of stunning fireshows. Dates and venues are June 12 at Dargaville's Parenga St carpark, June 19 at Kaikohe Speedway and June 26 at Caledonian Park, Waipu. The shows start at 6pm, koha is appreciated.

On the web: circuskumarani.co.nz

To the top
Both in-house and casual guests can take advantage of the Mt Hutt Heli "Park & Ride" Heli-Taxi option offered by Canterbury's Terrace Downs Resort. The flight gets you from the resort to the Mt Hutt Ski Area in seven minutes, and operates daily from the start of the ski season through to October. It costs $85 per person one-way.

Contact: (03) 318 6943,
On the web: terracedowns.co.nz