Row your boat

On September 2, the Great Race pits the Waikato University Senior Men's rowing eight against Cambridge University from Britain.

Cambridge is the only challenging university to have won the trophy in the past, so spectators are guaranteed an exciting race.

Hamilton gets into pre-race party mode from 10am, with live music, street entertainment, food and drink, kids' activities and rowing races which can be seen on the big screen on Victoria Bridge. Entry is free.

That evening the Great Race Ball provides an extravaganza of entertainment, with seven themed rooms and more than 130 live performers.

It costs $150 and a masquerade mask is essential.