Close to Home: Market forces

Get an eyeful of the wacky creations at the Birdman Festival in Russell. Photo / Northern Advocate

The City Market in the Chaffers Dock Function Centre on Wellington's waterfront opens on June 14 and will run every Sunday, 8.30am to 12.30pm. It will showcase local artisan products and producers, and will feature wine tasting, event previews, cooking demonstrations and entertainment.

On the web: www.citymarket.co.nz

Soak it up
For a magical apres-ski experience, relax in the warmth of Queenstown's Onsen Hot Pools. Set on a steep hillside overlooking the Shotover River canyon, each pool has a huge retractable window that rolls back to bring the outside in. Various packages are available, and a shuttle operates to and from Queenstown.

Contact: (03) 442 5707
On the web: www.onsen.co.nz

Touch of Blighty
The Langham Auckland salutes the re-launch of its London namesake with special events in June, starting with a Hats Off to London afternoon tea party on June 10. Its restaurants will feature UK-inspired dishes and beverages, such as roast beef with Yorkshire pudding. Pimms is the special June cocktail, and the Langham's signature afternoon tea will be served daily from noon to 4pm.

Contact: (09) 379 5132
On the web: www.langhamhotels.co.nz

Be a water warrior
Three Rotorua operators have joined forces to provide an exciting water-based adventure that also explores the region's history. The half-day Water Warriors package includes a jet boat trip across Lake Rotorua to the Ohau Channel, paddling a waka through the channel while a guide tells stories of the area, then rafting the Kaituna River. It's available for eight to 48 guests.

On the web: www.kjetrotorua.co.nz, www.manaadventures.co.nz, www.riverrats.co.nz

Fly like a bird
Hopeful contestants attempt to fly their weird and wonderful contraptions off the Russell wharf during the Birdman Festival on July 11. The fun starts at 9am, and includes a spaghetti-eating competition, kayak races, stalls, a beach dig, a barbecue cook-off and entertainment.

Contact: (09) 403 8253
On the web: www.russellbirdman.co.nz