KEY POINTS:
The Hastings Blossom Festival runs September 14-23, and promises a wide range of events, including theatre and music. The float parade on Saturday, September 15 at 1.30pm, is complemented by the Blossom Carnival, with fairground rides, entertainment and a market day atmosphere. A spectacular fireworks finale is at Windsor Park on September 22, 7pm.
Contact: (06) 878 9447
On the web: www.blossomfestival.co.nz
Detectives on the run
The TrustPower Adventure Quest in Arrowtown combines orienteering with the fun of a treasure hunt. Teams of two are provided with a map and a sheet of clues, and have six hours of biking and running/walking to complete the course, collecting as many hidden clues en route as possible. There's a category for serious multisport athletes, and a social category for fun. It's on September 29 and entry is $80 (late fee applies).
Contact: (03) 441 8215
On the web: www.southerntraverse.com
Flavours of the north
Taste Bay of Islands is a day of food, wine and entertainment, on September 29. Restaurants, wineries and food producers get together for the event which includes a cook-off competition between parents and kids, the kids helped by some of the region's top chefs. It runs 11am-4pm in the conference centre at the Copthorne Resort, Waitangi. Cost is $5, kids free.
Contact: (09) 402 7411
Email: David.perks@milleniumhotels.co.nz
In praise of kiwifruit
The Te Puke Kiwifruit Festival celebrates the area's connection to the green and gold fruit. This year's festival runs September 15-22 and events include a competition to find the Kiwifruit Queen, a festival ball, and a Kiwifruit Expo showcasing products and services related to the kiwifruit industry.
Contact: (07) 573 6772
Email: focus@tepuke.co.nz
Last of the snow
The snow season continues at Mt Ruapehu during September, with events ranging from Secondary School Champs to Ladies Ski Week, to junior and masters events. There's freestyle action during the Nokia Extreme at Whakapapa, September 20-26, while at Turoa there's the Corona Dragon Big Air on September 29. That's also the date for the fireworks spectacular at Whakapapa.
Contact: (07) 892 3738
On the web: www.mtruapehu.com
