Mardis Gras at Howick

Howick has it all this weekend, from antiques and garden safaris to madness at midnight.

More than 100 stores in the Howick Village shopping centre will be trading until midnight this Friday with business as usual the following morning. A New Orleans-style mardi gras is the theme for the night, with three bands entertaining shoppers.

Contact: The Howick Village Association (09) 534 4505 email louise@howickvillage.co.nz

Howick Village

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On Sunday the Howick Recreation Centre at 563 Pakuranga Rd will be transformed into an antique-hunters' paradise. The annual Antique Fair raises funds for charities and community organisations, with a $2 entry fee, from 9am to 3pm.

Contact: organisers (09) 832 5851.

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The most stunning gardens of the east Auckland region will open this weekend for the Howick Town & Country Garden Safari - a two-yearly fundraising event over two days.

Garden enthusiasts can book their itinerary on the safari's website. Bus and van tours are available, taking groups to gardens in Howick, Pakuranga, Whitford, Beachlands and Clevedon.A one-day ticket costs $20, with 23 gardens on show.

Contact: sponsor Eastern Courier (09) 535 9660, email alex@netinsites.com

Howick Town and Country Garden Safari