Weekender: Speaking up

Our top picks for your next weekend getaway.

Some of New Zealand's most eloquent wahine from the arts and health industries gather in Auckland this Saturday for panel discussions about issues facing us today.

Speak Up!

sees the likes of comedienne Angella Dravid, actress Nancy Brunning and politician Chloe Swarbrick address thorny subjects such as gender equality and consent as part of the programme to celebrate Aotearoa's 125th anniversary of women's suffrage. Expect to come away inspired and stimulated. Lower NZI Room, Aotea Centre, Auckland, Saturday September 8. Morning Session 10am-1pm; Afternoon Session 2-5pm; Evening Session 7-8:30pm. Tickets from $25.

Politician Chloe Swarbrick. Photo / Nick Reed

Art to Art

Art lovers will not want to miss an exclusive talk between exhibition co-curator Julia Waite and revered Kiwi artist Richard Killeen as they discuss Killeen's relationship with another iconic New Zealand artist, Gordon Walters, on Sunday. The pair first met in the early 1970s and their long friendship had an effect on both their practices. Guests will enjoy coffee, tea, croissants and pastries from 10.30am, followed by the conversation between Waite and Killeen from 11am-12pm. Members Lounge, Auckland Art Gallery, Sunday September 9, from 10.30am. Tickets $35 (members) or $85 (non-members single entry, includes year-membership).

Shark in the House

Australian indie pop starlet Amy Shark brings her Love Monster tour to New Zealand next week in support of her new debut album. The talented Queenslander, who has worked with the likes of New Zealand hero Joel Little (Lorde, Broods, Khalid), Blink 182's Mark Hoppus and Jack Antonoff, plays Auckland's Powerstation on Thursday September 13 (all ages), Christchurch's The Foundry on Friday September 14 and Wellington's Hunter Lounge on Saturday September 15. Tickets from $49.90 at ticketmaster.co.nz

Stars in Your Eyes

Rotorua plays host to the Run Beneath the Stars off-road night run/walk event this Saturday, which takes place along a 10.5 or 21km course on a mixture of single trail and forestry roads through the Redwoods of Whakarewarewa Forest. BYO head lamp and $5 from every entry fee goes to Rotorua Community Hospice. There's also a dusk option available (10.5km only). Redwoods Visitors Centre, Long Mile Rd, Rotorua, Saturday September 15 from 4pm (dusk) or 7.30pm (lights required). Tickets from $65, Ages 14-plus.