Travel Alerts: Meatstock returns, new exhibitions, 24-hour hotel stays, international concerts, and Disney attractions

Mystery Creek Events Centre in Hamilton is set to host Meatstock, a festival of meat and music in February, 2024.

Each week in Travel, we check out some of the latest happenings from Aotearoa and beyond to inspire your next adventure.

NZ’s biggest barbecue festival returns

The barbie just got more lit as Meatstock returns to Hamilton after a three-year hiatus. Head on down to the Mystery Creek Events Centre from February 14-15 and enjoy a fiery celebration of music, meat, mayhem, and fierce competitions. Alongside all things musical and meaty, experience the heart of a medieval battlefield at the Medieval Combat Village. Alexander James Holloway, artistic director of the New Zealand Stage and Screen Combat School and a previous stunt performer in the Vikings and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power TV series, will spearhead the event. It will include battle scenes, axe-throwing and archery. Savour myriad smokin’ treats, rock to amazing bands and win exciting prizes - what’s not to love? Secure your spot at meatstock.com.au/hamilton

Meatstock will return to Mystery Creek in February 2025. Photo / Meatstock

Aotearoa in the eyes of the ocean

Immerse yourself in the rich culture and heritage of Aotearoa through Cora-Allan’s newest exhibition at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Te Kōngahu Museum of Waitangi opened its doors on November 23 and will run until January 25. Encountering Aotearoa is the latest exhibit at Waitangi Treaty Grounds that displays Aotearoa from the viewpoint of the moana (ocean). Cora-Allan will showcase her artistry and captivate the audience with artworks made from whenua paint, hiapo (barkcloth) and other ngahere (forest) resources. waitangi.org.nz

Waitangi Treaty Grounds latest exhibition, Encountering Aotearoa.

A hassle-free 24-hour hotel stay

Hotel Grand Chancellor is redefining hospitality with its innovative ‘24-hour stay’ package, now available at the newly opened Hotel Grand Chancellor Auckland and James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor Wellington. This groundbreaking concept invites guests to enjoy a full 24 hours from the time they check-in, eliminating the stress of early check-outs and inflexible schedules. Whether you’re arriving late or simply want more time to relax, the 24-Hour Stay adapts to your plans. Perfectly located for exploring the vibrant attractions of Auckland and Wellington. grandchancellorhotels.com

Hotel Grand Chancellor's 24-hour stay deals are perfect for your busy schedule.

Ed Sheeran tours Bhutan

Global superstar Ed Sheeran is taking his tour to Thimphu, Bhutan, for the first time ever. Sheeran will headline the country’s first major international concert for the new year on January 24 at the Changlimithang Stadium. Featuring hit songs, The A Team, Shape of You, Thinking Out Loud, Photograph and more, if you ever wanted to combine an epic travel destination with your favourite performer, here’s your chance. It’s not too late to purchase tickets via tix.bt

Ed Sheeran is to headline Bhutan's first major international concert in 2025

New Disney attraction alert!

Disneyland Resort California welcomed its latest attraction on November 15: Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Inspired by the hit Disney film The Princess and the Frog, guests hop aboard a log flume to join Tiana and her alligator friend Louis on an adventure through the bayou in search of a band for her Mardi Gras soiree. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure enchants with catchy music and a light-hearted story, as well as a thrilling 15m descent. This is the latest chapter for the princess at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, which also includes Tiana’s Palace restaurant and three themed retail shops. disneyland.disney.go.com/attractions

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opened on November 15, 2024, at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. Photo / Disneyland Resort