KEY POINTS:
Queenstown's ASB Jazzfest turns 30 in style with over 200 musicians from around the world performing at dozens of venues. The festival from October 18-27 and features ticketed concerts, themed events, youth competitions, master classes, workshops and free gigs.
On the web: www.queenstownjazz.co.nz
Coming of age
Forty-nine Taranaki gardens will be at their blooming best during the 21st Taranaki Rhododendron and Garden Festival, October 31 to November 9. The open gardens include 18 Gardens of Significance, of which six are of National Significance.
Contact: 0800 746363
On the web: www.rhodo.co.nz
On a mission
Discover the biodiversity of the Northland coast on a three-day, two-night Eco-Sail aboard the tall ship R. Tucker Thompson, departing Opua on October 10. Passengers help the Project Island Song team to restore islands. It costs $885 per person.
Contact: (09) 402 8430
On the web: www.tucker.co.nz
Finger on the button
Tickets to Toast Martinborough go on sale at 9am on Wednesday, October 8. The popular wine, food and music festival is on November 16. Tickets only through Ticketmaster, phone 0800 111 999, www.ticketmaster.co.nz.
Contact: (06) 306 9183
On the web: www.toastmartinborough.co.nz
Northern grooves
The Whangarei Jazz & Blues Festival runs October 3-5, and includes musicians performing in various venues in the CBD.
On the web: www.whangareijazzblues.co.nz
Walk Dunedin
Otago Settlers Museum continues its programme of guided city walks with Women of Dunedin (September 27), Inner City Sculpture Trail (October 11), Dunedin's Engineering Achievements (October 18) and Follow the Reader (October 19). All depart at 2pm and cost $10. Bookings are essential.
Contact: (03) 474 2728
On the web: www.otago.settlers.museum
