Close to home: Hard acts to follow

A juggling busker from Sweden. Photo / Simon Baker

Christchurch goes a little crazy when hundreds of national and international street artists arrive for the World Buskers Festival, January 21-31. Acrobats, illusionists, jugglers, strongmen, contortionists and comedians will bring their brand of frenetic fun to the city. Most performances are free.

On the web: www.worldbuskersfestival.com

Carnival time

Timaru's Caroline Bay Carnival runs December 26 to January 10, with activities and entertainment for the whole family. Fairground rides, music, competitions, mini-golf, and train rides are part of the fun, as is a New Year's Eve fireworks display.

Contact: (03) 686 2136
On the web: www.carolinebay.org.nz

Tipples in Taupo

The Enomatic wine-tasting machines at Taupo's Scenic Cellars are proving a hit with tourists and locals alike. Internationally themed Cellar Dinners featuring superb cuisine and wine are held in the expansive wine cellar. The 2010 schedule includes Spanish (March 13), Italian (May 15) and French (July 17). Tickets are limited.

Contact: (07) 378 5704
On the web: www.sceniccellars.co.nz

Under the moonlight

Hawkes Bay's outdoor summer film festival runs at the Black Barn Vineyards amphitheatre in Havelock North, December 27-30, and January 2-6. Relax, sip wine, and nibble on snacks from in-house caterers or on your own picnic while watching one of nine specially selected movies. Tickets are $18, family $54. A double-decker bus provides transport from Napier.

Contact: (06) 877 7985
On the web: www.blackbarn.com

Join the circus

Circus teachers and enthusiasts from around the country gather on the shores of the beautiful Kai Iwi Lakes for the Northland Circus Festival, January 22-24. Whether it's juggling, hula, stilts, tightrope, trapeze, acrobatics or unicycle, there are workshops to suit all ability levels, as well as performances, movies and a circus Olympics. It costs $50 for a three-day pass, and camping is $10 per night (adult), $5 (child).

Contact: (09) 439 5152
On the web: www.circuskumarani.co.nz