Close to Home: Summer fun at the A&P show

The A&P show. Photo / Dannevirke News

The Whangarei A&P Summer Show offers equestrian events, agricultural competitions and displays, a farmyard nursery, food, entertainment and more. It's at Barge Show Grounds, December 5-6.

Contact: (09) 438 3109
On the web: summershow.co.nz

Sail the high seas
The tall ship R.Tucker Thompson is offering a three-day, two-night Eco-Sail in the stunning Bay of Islands, December 8-10. On-shore excursions to Cape Brett lighthouse and Whangamumu whaling station included. There's also a guided Historic Cruise, December 11-15.

Contact: (09) 402 8430
On the web: tucker.co.nz

Home at last
The Timaru Festival of Roses runs November 20-29 and includes garden tours, a rose exhibition, concerts, the Hat & Hair Art Awards, and more. It incorporates the Phar Lap Comes Home celebrations, including the unveiling of a bronze statue, a race day, dinner, champagne breakfast and book launch.

Contact: (03) 688 5531
On the web: festivalofroses.co.nz

Art beat
Whangarei's ArtBeat on November 14 is a free family day featuring street theatre and performing arts, live music, a sculpture exhibition, art and craft stalls, and ethnic cuisine. It's at Cafler Park 10am-4pm.

Contact: (09) 430 6432. Email: sandylee@apt.org.nz
On the web: apt.org.nz

Plenty of thyme
The Alexandra Thyme Festival offers walks, exhibitions, picnics, star-gazing, a market and workshops. It runs from November 15-22.

Contact: 0800 267 327
On the web: thymefestival.co.nz