With many of the most exciting names in world tennis confirmed for January's ASB Classic, including Caroline Wozniacki, 2017 Champions Jack Sock and Lauren Davis, and Grand Slam Champion Victoria Azarenka, it's once again shaping up to be an unmissable tournament.
Some of the recent talent added to the men's line-up includes Juan Martin del Potro, John Isner, Roberto-Bautista Agut, David Ferrer and Sam Querry.
Also flying in are Canadian player Denis Shapovalov and Russia's Karen Khachanov, who tournament director Karl Budge has named as "the two guys to watch out for".
Double Australian Open Champion Victoria Azarenka has been given a wildcard entry, providing another dose of excitement to a competitive draw.
As well as the thrills set to take place on the court, the ASB Classic has grand plans to keep the fun going in between games too. Just before the women's semi-finals, they've announced a special Garden Lunch, hosted by musician and jeweller Boh Runga alongside footwear designer Kathryn Wilson.
The menu for the three-course lunch has been inspired by chef Peter Gordon's much-loved restaurant The Sugar Club, showcasing their knack for incredible fusion cuisine.
The venue’s Serve precinct will be adorned with beautiful flowers, creating the perfect setting for Boh Runga to perform some crowd favourites, before she joins Kathryn Wilson for a special Q&A session.
Kathryn has even created a special sneaker to celebrate the event, The Classic Trainer, which guests will be able to purchase on the day.
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Advertise with NZME.Kathryn says she "can't wait to see everyone arrive in their floral-inspired outfits" on January 5, adding that the tennis is an event she looks forward to every summer.
On Sunday January 7, the Sunday Sweet Spot music festival will take place in The Serve precinct, curated by Sam Trevethick of Shapeshifter.
The day features a DJ set from Weird Together, The Peacekeepers, Sunshine Sound System, and more. Pop up restaurants including Skycity's Spice Alley, Moet & Chandon, and the Hot Dog Bar will be ready to stave off hunger and keep you refreshed. Visit Ticketek to book.
In between, Boh Runga, White Chapel and Taye Williams will be keeping the crowds entertained throughout the Classic.
A VIP Experience in the form of a two-storey 'Heineken House' will also be on offer, as will the Moet & Chandon Champagne Lounge, and an interactive bar in The Serve. If it's ice cream your after, you'll be able to cool off with one of Kapiti's delicious flavours.
With so many reasons to head along, it's not hard to see why the ASB Classic is heralded as a highlight of Auckland's new year.
• ASB Classic, 1 Tennis Lane, Parnell, January 1-13. Tickets start at $15 from Ticketek.co.nz
