KEY POINTS:
Mussel fritters, hangi, dried pipi and rewena bread are some of the foods on offer at the Kawhia Kai Festival on Saturday, February 2. The festival offers a chance to see flax weaving, tattooing, cloak making and wood carving. Pack your swimwear because the venue is beside the
beach. It costs $15 (family, two adults and up to five kids), $5 (adults and unaccompanied kids), under 5 free.
Contact: (07) 871 0755, 021 1811 009
On the web: kawhiakaifestival.co.nz
American drive
American cars and culture take over Taranaki during the Americarna Festival, February 20-24. Around 780 American muscle cars, hot rods, street cars and choppers will be cruising Taranaki's highways. On Friday, February 22 the New Plymouth CBD will be closed from 6.30pm. There's a parade the following day, and the festival winds up on Sunday, February 24 with a Fair Extravaganza featuring bands, rides, show cars and a prize draw for a car.
Contact: (06) 759 9080; 0274 160 444
On the web: www.americarna.com
Sky-high action
Spectators can watch rocket enthusiasts launch a variety of space-bound craft during the New Zealand Rocketry Association's National Launch Day on Sunday, February 3. The action happens in a field on Kneebone Rd, Taupiri, 12pm-5pm. Gate fee $7 (adult), $3 (child 5-15 years), under 5 free.
Contact: (09) 8361 592; 021 782 256
On the web: www.nzrocketry.org.nz
Deco in style
For a celebration of the Art Deco style head to Napier for the Geon Brebner Print Art Deco Weekend, February 12-17. Classic cars and aircraft and people dressed in the style of the era bring glamour to an event that includes guided walks, parades, steam train rides, dances and demonstrations.
Contact: (06) 835 0022
On the web: www.artdeconapier.com
The Mikado
The Perfume Garden at Hamilton Gardens is the setting for a performance of The Mikado. There are performances at 6.30pm on February 16 and 23, and a 3.30pm show on February 17. Tickets cost $30 (adults), $20 (students with ID), $10 (children 5-15 years).
Contact: (07) 859 1317
On the web: www.hamiltongardens.co.nz
Sunday grooves
The Lazy Sunday series offers a chance to kick back in Christchurch's Botanic Gardens and listen to some of the brightest young musicians the city has to offer. Every Sunday 3.30-5pm until March 16.
Contact: (03) 941 8999
On the web: www.summertimes.org.nz