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The Winter@Waipu Festival runs throughout June, July and August. Dozens of events are planned, including a Tartan Day on July 1 that showcases the area's Scottish heritage. Plays, poetry, exhibitions, concerts, walks, markets and parades are just part of what's on offer. A full programme is online.
Contact: (09) 432 1234
On the web: www.breambay.com/winter
Orienteering twist
Explore Wellington, get fit and have some fun by joining the Wellington city safari on Sunday, May 18, with three and six-hour options. It involves teams using public transport to get to various control points around the city, including the suburbs, the town belt, walkways and some of the city's best vantage points. A travel pass is part of your entry.
Contact: (04) 566 2645
On the web: www.citysafari.org.nz
Luxury up north
Experience the winterless north in style at Cavalli Beach House Retreat near Matauri Bay. This exclusive waterfront lodge enjoys spectacular views over a secluded bay to the Cavalli Islands. Plenty of activities are available, but it's also the perfect place to slow down and unwind. Special winter deals are available.
Contact: (09) 405 1049
On the web: www.cavalllibeachhouse.co.nz
Come to the cabaret
The Christchurch Cabaret Festival presents international and national acts in music, song, comedy and satire. Starting on June 18, the festival offers five fabulous nights of entertainment across the city.
Contact: (03) 365 2223
On the web: www.cabaretfestival.co.nz
Wild in Wellington
Take a walk on the wild side at Wellington zoo and catch some of the fascinating talks about zoo inhabitants. Regular talks include the rather creepy spider talk, a talk featuring Tahi, the one-legged kiwi, a chimpanzee talk that includes the new baby Abeni and a giraffe talk at the new giraffe house.
Contact: (04) 381 6750
www.wellingtonzoo.com
Get steamed up
On Queen's Birthday Weekend, May 31 to June 1, the immaculately restored steam locomotive WA165 will make several return trips along the beautiful Pacific coastline between Gisborne and Muriwai. Tickets are available from the Gisborne i-site visitor centre and cost $20-$25 (adult), $10-$15 (child).
Contact: (06) 868 6139
Email: info@gisbornenz.com
