KEY POINTS:
If you love a bit of clowning around, head to Dargaville for the Community Circus Convention, August 17 to 19. Workshops, forums and fun. It starts with a show by Circus Kumarani, the group organising the event. It's in the Dargaville Town Hall and costs $150 each for three days, including dinner on Saturday.
Contact: (09) 439 5152
On the web: www.circuskumarani.co.nz
Soak in style
Polynesian Spa has opened seven private rock pools, with a further six scheduled to open by the end of July. Some have panoramic views over Sulphur Bay on Lake Rotorua and all have a temperature of 39C. Warm changing rooms with hot showers. A half-hour hire for two adults is $20 (deluxe, with view) and $17 (standard).
Contact: 0508 765 977
On the web: www.polynesianspa.co.nz
Festival time
The TV2 KidsFest in Christchurch is an annual event aimed at children up to 12. Over the winter school holidays, the city and surrounding areas will host a range of shows, workshops, tours and fun things for children. This year the theme is transport. Details online.
Contact: (03) 941 6233
On the web: www.kidsfest.co.nz
Goodbye blues
Chase away the winter blues with the a winter treatment at the luxurious Heritage Spa du Vin in the Mangatawhiri Valley just 45 minutes drive from downtown Auckland. Spa packages can range from a 75-minute facial to a full day of pampering. Bookings essential.
Contact: (09) 233 6780; 0800 772 800
On the web: www.spaduvin.co.nz
Games galore
The Mini X Games is a freestyle ski and snowboard competition for children. Held in Happy Valley at Whakapapa, July 11 to 13, the games are open to children aged 5 to 12. Starts at 2pm, registration in the Plaza from 2pm to 3.30pm. Entry free.
Contact: (07) 892 3732
On the web: www.mtruapehu.com