Looking for some activities to do or new places to try? Here we have a great round-up below of events on and new restaurants to try in Auckland, Waikato, Wellington and Christchurch.
Auckland
Putt and Pout
Holey Moley, Tuesday 15, 22 & 29 October
Get ready for a dazzling night of fun with Putt and Pout Drag Bingo at Holey Moley in Auckland, hosted by the fabulous Anita Wigl’it! Happening over three Tuesdays this October, expect three rounds of bingo, jaw-dropping performances, and a shot at being crowned ‘Mother Putter Queen.’
Exclusive cocktails like ‘Not Today Satan’ and ‘Kinky Boots’ will keep the vibes high, while the runway lip-sync battle and post-show karaoke and mini-golf guarantee a night full of entertainment.
Best of all, proceeds from the 22nd October event will support Youthline as part of Funlab’s mental health awareness day.
This event is free but has limited spots, get your tickets here!
Glam Ready
On now until Sunday 20 October
Cult hair brand Shark Beauty™ has just opened its doors launching its first salon experience in Newmarket, showcasing its viral TikTok-famous products. The pop-up salon opens on Broadway in Newmarket, offering complimentary blow wave sessions and exclusive product discounts for a limited time.
You’ll enjoy free styling sessions led by award-winning stylist Sara Allsop, learning how to use Shark Beauty’s innovative tools to achieve salon-quality results at home. The salon will feature products like the Shark SmoothStyle, FlexStyle and SpeedStyle.
With late-night appointments on Thursdays and Fridays, plus complimentary makeup touch-ups during weekend afternoons, the Shark Beauty Salon promises a fun, immersive experience that will not only help you up your hair game, but also get you glam ready for a lovely evening ahead. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate your unique hair journey!
For more information and to book your complimentary appointment, click here!
Sakura in Bloom
Saturday 12 – Sunday 13 October
This October, Roku Gin hosts a series of beautiful events in partnership with Asian-fusion bakery Fankery to celebrate the launch of its limited-edition Sakura Bloom gin. The event, held at The Village in Herne Bay, embraces the Japanese concept of “shun” – using seasonal ingredients at their peak – and will recreate the beauty of Japan’s cherry blossom season.
Guests will enjoy a three-course menu by Fankery founder Cathy Fan, with dishes like matcha yuzu tart, Sakura cheesecake and smoked salmon ochazuke. Each course is paired with a Roku Sakura Bloom gin cocktail, including the Roku Sakura Gin and Tonic and the Sakura Aperitif. Cathy, a longtime Roku gin fan, says the collaboration is a natural fit, blending traditional craftsmanship with a modern twist.
Sakura in Bloom is on Saturday 12 October and Sunday 13 October (with sittings at 1pm and 4pm on both days). Tickets are available at Eventbrite.
Diwali Festival
Saturday 19 – Sunday 20 October
The BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival, known as ‘The Festival of Lights’, draws over 100,000 attendees. Returning to Aotea Square and Queen St, this vibrant celebration of Indian culture features over 150 performances across three stages, and contemporary music, dance, and stalls offering Indian delicacies and crafts.
Flavours of Aotearoa
Trivet, Open now for breakfast, lunch, light bites and dinner
Auckland welcomes Trivet to its culinary scene, an all-day bistro located next to the JW Marriott on Albert Street. Led by Executive Chef Wallace Mua, who brings experience from top kitchens in Marseille and Aotearoa, Trivet offers a globally inspired menu crafted with sustainably sourced seafood and locally grown produce. Signature dishes like trevally oka and slow-cooked beef cheek showcase Chef Wallace’s passion for blending tradition with innovation.
With interiors inspired by Aotearoa’s landscapes and a focus on sustainability, Trivet promises an exceptional dining experience in the heart of the city. Book a spot to dine at trivetdining.co.nz or 09 912 3020.
Waikato
Art lovers
Raglan Arts Weekend, Saturday 26 – Monday 28 October
The much-anticipated Raglan Arts Weekend (RAW) over Labour Weekend, is now in its 14th year! This annual open studio event attracts art lovers nationwide, offering a glimpse into the creative processes of over 65 local artists. Explore a diverse range of media, including recycled metal sculpture, graffiti, textiles, ceramics, jewellery, photography and traditional painting and illustration.
This year, RAW also features a collaboration with a Country and Blues Music Festival, along with workshops and installations. The self-guided tour starts at the Old School Arts Centre, where you can pick up a guide and plan your visit.
New this year, ‘The Hatch’ showcases 16 emerging Whaingaroa artists. Your ticket includes a welcome drink and hearty grazing table – get your tickets here.
Culinary Heritage Meets Contemporary Craft
Located at 14 Northcroft Street, Taupō, Lionel’s Bistro and Bar offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu with the best of New Zealand ingredients, curated by Chef Reuben Lynn. Dishes like house-made pastas and chargrilled meats showcase local, seasonal produce. The inviting interiors, designed by CTRL Space, enhance the relaxed dining experience. Now open, Lionel’s is quickly becoming a standout in Taupō’s dining scene.
For more information or to book, visit lionels.co.nz
Wellington
A World Like No Other
World of WearableArt – on now until 13 October
Imagination becomes reality in the 2024 World of WearableArt Show: DREAM AWAKE. You’ll be drawn into six awe-inspiring realms, where the boundaries of theatrical spectacle, live music, dance, aerial choreography and wearable art are pushed to the extreme.
Since it was established in 1987 WOW has embraced the worlds of art and design, running a global competition that culminates in a spectacular performance each year. The exhilarating WOW Show is a visual feast for audiences and an opportunity for designers to be recognised and celebrated on the world stage.
Don’t miss out on your chanced to be wowed! Get your tickets here.
Golden Hour
Wellington Yoga Centre
The Heart Space, a sanctuary for self-discovery, healing and connection, are offering affordable Immersive Somatic Meditation sessions throughout October. Held at the Wellington Yoga Centre, 1a Kensington Street, you can treat yourself with a gentle somatic meditation to reconnect with your body and mind. Let go of any weekly stresses and move into the weekend feeling embodied and nourished.
Enjoy the calming scent of lavender, soft ambient music and a guided meditation taking you on a peaceful journey. This experience is suitable for both beginner and seasoned meditators alike. The Heart Space offer tiered admission so that those with more can share, and those who need some support can receive it.
Ready to feel rejuvenated and grounded? Book your session here.
Christchurch
Spring Foraging
On now until 12 October
Join an exciting Spring Foraging Walk in Christchurch, where you’ll discover the delicious flavours of the season! This immersive experience will guide you through the wild and local gardens, helping you identify edible plants, garden escapees and medicinal herbs recognised in Māori traditions.
Led by Hadd, a celebrated hunter-gatherer and chef known for his sought-after Wild Dinner parties, this event promises a unique journey into the world of foraging. You’ll learn the essentials of identifying edible and medicinal plants, delve into mushroom foraging, and savour delightful wild snacks crafted by Hadd. With limited spots available, this is an excellent opportunity for both seasoned foragers and curious beginners to connect with nature and gain insights from a true expert. Secure your place today!
Butterfly Fun Run
Sunday 13 October
Join Miscarriage Matter NZ for their 5th anniversary of the Butterfly Fun Run at The Groynes reserve, celebrating Baby Loss Awareness Week. You can run or walk a scenic 6km loop, with each registration entering you into a draw for exciting prizes. Don’t miss the chance to win best-dressed and finish-line prizes, too! Optional Butterfly Fun Run apparel, including t-shirts and sweatshirts, are available for purchase.
Your participation will help support Miscarriage Matters NZ (MMNZ), a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to raising awareness about miscarriage and providing vital services in the community. Book your tickets here.
A Feast of Culture
Manu, a new restaurant in Christchurch, is a celebration of Aotearoa’s rich cultural diversity, blending Pacifica, Māori and Asian influences into a warm, inviting dining experience. With a menu inspired by the land, sea and sky, Manu fosters connection and community through its food and atmosphere, reflecting values of hospitality (manaakitanga) and environmental guardianship (kaitiakitanga).
Beyond dining, Manu champions women’s empowerment through its ‘Giving Wings to Others’ fund, which supports women in leadership and provides financial assistance to help them achieve their goals. Manu offers more than just a meal – it’s a place to share stories, celebrate culture and create lasting memories. For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.manu.co.nz.
