KEY POINTS:
Christchurch's Latin Dance Festival on February 28 starts with a Day Fiesta in Victoria Square, 11am-3pm, featuring Latin American and Spanish food, arts and craft, clothing, music, dance workshops and performances. In the evening dancers will strut their stuff in the Town Hall, then the public gets a chance to emulate the moves on the dance floor.
Contact: (03) 377 6941
On the web: latindancefestival.co.nz
Kiwi to the core
February 21 is Kiwi Carnival Day in Eketahuna, with stalls, demonstrations, exhibitions and fun events like a tug o' war, a treasure hunt, a parade and a "Settlers' Hop" dance. On February 22 there'll be open gardens and walks. Museums, galleries and attractions such as Pukaha Mt Bruce will hold special displays and events.
Contact: (06) 375 8545
On the web: eketahunakiwicountry.co.nz
Loaded with fun
Longridge Fun Park near Te Puke is now Spring Loaded Fun Park, and whether it's a fast and furious jet boat ride, a self-drive 4WD challenge in a Mud Bug or a helicopter joyride, there are plenty of ways to get the adrenalin racing. Combo and corporate packages are also available.
Contact: 0800 867 386
On the web: springloadedfunpark.co.nz
Bound for space
Rockets will scream skywards during the New Zealand Rocketry Association's National Launch Day on February 22. The launch site is at Kneebone Road in Taupiri, with the action starting at 12pm. It costs $7 (adult) and $3 (child). Cancellation date is March 1.
Contact: (09) 836 1592, 021 043 4215
On the web: nzrocketry.org.nz
Music and machines
Palmerston North's Esplanade Gardens come alive for Esplanade Day on February 22. Local artists will perform and there'll be games, activities and stalls. From 10am-4pm there'll be extreme motocross and a competition for excavator operators.
Contact: (03) 377 2823
West goes wild
Watch cowboys in action, try cheese rolling or throw a keg or gumboot at the Waimamaku Wild West Festival in the Hokianga on February 21 from 10am.
