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Taranaki Fortunes: Lost and Won

How much do you know about the fortunes of Taranaki? What was the name of Taranaki’s first Jersey cow? What happened to New Plymouth’s trams? Who saved the Meeting of the Waters? Find out the answers to these and more at Taranaki Fortunes: lost and won. Taranaki Fortunes traces the ups and downs of our region – rich in opportunity but often challenged by circumstances and events. War, recession, topography and isolation meet robustness, resourcefulness, doggedness and ingenuity and that Taranaki spirit that makes our region unique. Split into three sections – Producing the Goods, Paving the Way, and Trade and Exchange, Taranaki Fortunes takes a close look at the bad times and the good through a story that features hope and heartbreak, innovation and sheer hard work. Featuring three short black and white films from Taranaki running on loop, numerous scaled models as well as a miniature rotating milking shed and dairy “chiller”, the exhibition aims to engage and inspire discussions about our region’s fortune. With free entry, interactive activities and lots of events planned during the exhibition, it’s a great outing for the whole family. And after your visit pick up a copy of Fortunes: the book from the shop at Puke Ariki.

Dates: Sat 14 Nov 09 - Sun 21 Feb 10, on Sat, Sun, 9:00am - 5:00pm. Sat 14 Nov 09 - Sun 21 Feb 10, on Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, 9:00am - 6:00pm. Sat 14 Nov 09 - Sun 21 Feb 10, on Wed, 9:00am - 9:00pm.
Venue: Puke Ariki
Region: Taranaki
Cost: Free

Blue Planet

Blue is a feeling, a place to dream, an endless idea and the colour of our amazing planet as seen from space. Looking at the ways artists have used the colour blue, Blue Planet celebrates imaginative art making and thinking, as well as different cultural and global perspectives. Blue Planet is shaped with younger audiences in mind. It includes art by Reuben Paterson, Jae Hoon Lee, Helen Calder, Francis Upritchard, Jun Nguyen-Hatsushiba, Gavin Hipkins, Richard Maloy, Len Castle, Megan Jenkinson, Peter Madden, Rohan Wealleans, Max Gimblett, Shona Firman, Colin McCahon and Eileen Mayo, together with traditional Nigerian sculpture and Japanese prints. Image: Gavin Hipkins - Romance: New York (Jellyfish). 2006.

Dates: Sat 21 Nov 09 - Sun 07 Nov 10, every day, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Christchurch Art Gallery
Region: Canterbury
Cost: Free

Dinosaur Eggs and Babies

Discover dinosaurs through their eggs, babies, nests, skeletons and more! This exhibition features cast specimens from all over the globe. With plenty of hands-on excitement, 'Dinosaur Eggs and Babies' is a fresh look at the incredible world of dinosaurs.

Dates: Sat 12 Dec 09 - Sun 02 May 10, every day, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Otago Museum
Region: Otago
Cost: Adult $10, Child $5, Students/seniors (with ID) $8, Friends and DWTF members $8, 1 adult + 3 children $20, 2 adults + 2 children $25, Child prices are for ages 2 – 15, Under 2s are free

A and P Show - Taumarunui

The Agricultural and Pastoral Shows offer a wide range of activities to keep the whole family entertained! A Kiwi tradition, the shows have something for everyone including: live entertainment, livestock competitions, agricultural demonstrations and displays, amusements, side shows and a range stalls selling everything from Tractors to Candyfloss. The A and P show is an opportunity for people to display their talents to the community and sell their wares to raise funds. Exhibits can be made in Handcraft, Children, Vegetables, Flowers, Domestic Produce, Farm Animals, Pet and Photography sections. Supported by The Royal Agricultural Society of New Zealand, visit their website to find out more about the A and P show in your region. For more information phone 07 895-4802.

Dates: Fri 12 Feb 10 - Sat 13 Feb 10, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Taumarunui
Region: Manawatu Whanganui
Cost: tbc

Bowl-A-Rama International Skateboarding Competition

Bowl-a-rama 2010 will be the biggest and best so far. Legendary riders will compete for big prize money. Bowl-a-rama is more like a week-long celebration of skateboard culture. Back for its third year, the festival starts on Wednesday 10 February with the Oakley ‘Love & Guts’ art show at Manky Chops Gallery, Cuba Street. Added to this is an umbrella of events that include art shows, video premiers and live music performances. The main competition kicks off from 5pm on Friday at the bowl. Finals take place the next day with all the world’s best bowl riders competing for the largest prize purse in New Zealand skating. *** Presented as a part of Wellington's Summer City Festival. Wellington's summer festival of outdoor fun and entertainment will feature a wide array of events and concerts. There are heaps of reasons to get out and join in the action.

Dates: Fri 12 Feb 10, 4:00pm - 9:00pm. Sat 13 Feb 10, 5:30pm - 9:00pm.
Venue: Waitangi Park
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

A and P Show - Northern Wairoa

Dates: Sat 13 Feb 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Northern Wairoa A and P Showgrounds
Region: Northland
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Te Puke

Dates: Sat 13 Feb 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Te Puke Showgrounds
Region: Bay of Plenty
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Central Otago

Dates: Sat 13 Feb 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Central Otago A and P Showgrounds
Region: Otago
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Waiau

Dates: Sat 13 Feb 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Waiau Showgrounds
Region: Southland
Cost: tbc

Disney's High School Musical 2

Disney's High School Musical 2 live on stage at The James Hay Theatre, Christchurch Town Hall. High School Musical 2 is the sequel to the Disney Channel Original Movie, High School Musical. Canterbury Children's Theatre Inc.

Dates: Sat 13 Feb 10 - Sat 27 Feb 10, on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun, 2:00pm - 4:00pm. Sat 13 Feb 10 - Sat 27 Feb 10, on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, 7:30pm - 9:30pm.
Venue: James Hay Theatre
Region: Canterbury
Cost: 25 Child, $35 Adult, $110 Family Pass (2 Adults, 2 Children)

Art in the Park

Artists from Southland will be participating in an art and sculpture walk this summer at Queens Park. They will be displaying and selling their work as well as interacting with the audience as they practice their talents. Come along, bring a friend, entry is free. There will be activities for all to join in on.

Dates: Sat 13 Feb 10 - Sun 14 Feb 10, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Queens Park
Region: Southland
Cost: Free

Avice Hill Arts and Craft Fair

This will be an art and craft extravaganza not to be missed. Promoting all craft activities that take place at the Avice Hill Craft Centre and within the local community, this fair will feature craft stalls, displays, food stalls, live jazz and a range of children’s entertainment.

Dates: Sun 14 Feb 10, 11:00am - 3:00pm.
Venue: Avice Hill Reserve
Region: Canterbury
Cost: tbc

Summer Concert Series - Pollard Park

Always a favourite on the family calendar after a busy festival weekend in Marlborough. This is a great opportunity to bring the family down to Pollard Park for a picnic and enjoy some of the quality entertainment we have on offer. "Trinity" are three dynamic female vocalist's Ingrid, Tami & Sela. They each have their own unique style and sound that blends effortlessly to form strong powerful harmonic tones. Their repertoire ranges from Easy listening classics, hits of the 70's, 80's and 90's through to the popular songs of today. Enough to get you up and dancing. Also performing is the Marlborough District Brass Band, who enjoy a high national profile and currently is ranked among the top "A" Grade bands in New Zealand.

Dates: Sun 14 Feb 10, 5:00pm - 9:00pm.
Venue: Pollard Park
Region: Marlborough
Cost: Free

A and P Show - Manitoto

Dates: Wed 17 Feb 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Ranfurly TBC
Region: Otago
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Franklin

Dates: Fri 19 Feb 10 - Sun 21 Feb 10, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Pukekohe Showgrounds
Region: Auckland
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - North Hokianga

Dates: Sat 20 Feb 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: North Hokianga Showgrounds
Region: Northland
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Waimarino

Home to one of New Zealands oldest grandstands and with Mt Ruapehu as a stunning backdrop, the historic town of Raetihi will host the 99th Waimarino Agricultural and Pastoral show on the 20th and 21st of February 2010. This years event will feature equestrian (hack, pleasure, jumping as well as Showhunter Horse of the Year qualifiers), miniature horses, dairy, beef, highland cattle, sheep shearing & axemens competitions, plus entertainment for the whole family. The famous Raetihi Country Market Day will also be held at the Raetihi Showgrounds with art, craft and food stalls, Volcano coffee, homemade furniture, fresh cut flowers and much much more. Accommodation starts at just $20 per person and is within walking distance of the showgrounds. Tickets available at the gate. For more information phone 06 385-4131 or email droversroad@xtra.co.nz

Dates: Sat 20 Feb 10 - Sun 21 Feb 10, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Waimarino Showgrounds
Region: Manawatu Whanganui
Cost: $3 at the gate.

A and P Show - Murchison

Dates: Sat 20 Feb 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Murchison Sport, Recreation and Cultural Cente Reserve
Region: Tasman
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Mt Benger

Dates: Sat 20 Feb 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Roxburgh TBC
Region: Southland
Cost: tbc

Banks Shoes ShapeShifter

Summer days, beautiful gardens and contemporary sculpture are a mix not to be missed as Shapeshifter returns. The Civic Gardens become a magnificent outdoor gallery with sculptures set in the grounds, the Tutukiwi Living Gallery and in TheNewDowse. TheNewDowse director Cam McCracken has selected over 60 large and small-scale sculptures which are all for sale. Picnickers are welcome. For more HOT events in the HUTT, check out www.summerscene.co.nz

Dates: Fri 26 Feb 10 - Sun 21 Mar 10, every day, 10:00am.
Venue: The New Dowse
Region: Wellington
Cost: $5 entry with proceeds to charity, accompanied children free

A and P Show - North Otago

Dates: Fri 26 Feb 10 - Sat 27 Feb 10, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Oamaru TBC
Region: Otago
Cost: tbc

Mahler Symphony No. 8

Sorry this event is now sold out. World-renowned conductor Vladimir Ashkenazy joins the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and some of the world’s finest soloists in delivering an electric performance of Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 8. Often referred to as Mahler’s Symphony of a Thousand due to its vast instrumental and choral forces, this epic collaboration offers Festival audiences the opportunity to hear Mahler’s magnum opus and one of the greatest musical experiences of our time. The work combines sacred and secular texts that deal with Mahler’s ideal of the redemptive power of human love. The performance of Mahler’s Symphony No. 8 during Festival 2010 marks the 100th anniversary of its first performance in Munich. Marshalling the forces of an immense orchestra, a children’s chorus, two large mixed choirs, organ, off-stage brass and eight vocal soloists, this musical feast promises to be a Festival hit and guaranteed sell-out. As a special opening night celebration, a live relay of this spectacular event can be enjoyed on a giant screen in Civic Square – all part of the free, family-friendly events taking place during the Festival. • Annalena Persson, Marina Shaguch, Sara Macliver (sopranos) • Dagmar Peckova, Bernadette Cullen (mezzos) • Simon O’Neill (tenor), Markus Eiche (baritone) • Martin Snell (bass) • New Zealand Symphony Orchestra • Vladimir Ashkenazy (conductor) • New Zealand Youth Choir • Voices New Zealand Chamber Choir • Christchurch City Choir • Orpheus Choir of Wellington • Choristers of Wellington Cathedral of St Paul (augmented) Duration: 1 hr 20 Image Credit: Brendan Read

Dates: Fri 26 Feb 10, 8:00pm - 9:20pm.
Venue: Michael Fowler Centre
Region: Wellington
Cost: Premium $176, Premium Frind $166, A Reserve $140, A Reserve Friend $130, B Reserve $100, B Reserve Friend $95, C Reserve $60, D Reserve $46 service fee will apply

Auckland Lantern Festival

Bring all the family to welcome in the new Year of the Tiger at the 11th Auckland Lantern Festival in Albert Park. Browse dozens of delicious Asian food and craft stalls and picnic on the grass amongst all the beautiful new lanterns specially commissioned in China. International performers include musicians from Shanghai and horsehead fiddle players from Inner Mongolia. Brought to you by Asia New Zealand Foundation in partnership with Auckland City Council and principal sponsor HSBC.

Dates: Fri 26 Feb 10 - Sun 28 Feb 10, every day, 5:00pm - 10:30pm.
Venue: Albert Park
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Sutra

Since its first sell-out London performance in May 2008, Sutra has been celebrated by audiences and critics around the world. Presented by the United Kingdom’s leading dance house, Sadler’s Wells, this stunning production brings together one of Europe’s most exciting choreographer-dancers, Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui , Turner Prize-winning artist Antony Gormley, and Buddhist monks from the original Shaolin Temple in China. Sutra is a breathtaking sequence of movement and acrobatics, complemented by Gormley’s striking design of 21 wooden boxes. Constantly shifting, the boxes create a compelling, ever-changing environment for the performers. Polish composer Szymon Brzóska has created an original score for piano, percussions and strings, performed live on stage by five musicians. The culmination of these astonishing talents is an awe-inspiring dance work that provides a fascinating insight into the philosophy and faith behind the Shaolin tradition,and its position within a contemporary context. Before creating Sutra, Cherkaoui spent several months at the Shaolin Temple exploring his life-long interest in the Shaolin philosophy and its intrinsic relationship with martial arts. Sutra is a moving journey through faith and imagination – a truly miraculous creation inspired by the unwavering skill, strength and spirituality of the Buddhist Shaolin monks. A Sadler’s Wells Production. Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui / Antony Gormley / Szymon Brzóska. Monks from the Shaolin Temple. Image Credit: Hugo Glendinning.

Dates: Fri 26 Feb 10 - Wed 03 Mar 10, on Wed, Fri, Sat, 9:00am - 11:00pm. Fri 26 Feb 10 - Wed 03 Mar 10, on Mon, Sun, 9:00am - 11:00pm. every day, 8:00pm - 9:00pm. every day, 8:00pm - 9:00pm. every day, 8:00pm - 9:00pm.
Venue: The St James Theatre
Region: Wellington
Cost: A$88, AFR$83, B$78, BFR$73, C$66, D$46 service fee will apply

The South Canterbury Finance Nelson Trolley Derby

It's time for you to enter Nelson's perennial gravity powered wheel spectacular! Make your own wacky racer, dress up to match and cruise away with the trophy for Style Meister Of The Hill, or concentrate on top speed to be Monarch Of The Hill. Trolley design guide, rules and online registration at www.derby.co.nz.

Dates: Sat 27 Feb 10, 10:00am - 4:00pm.
Venue: Collingwood Street between Brougham Street and Nile Street
Region: Nelson
Cost: Free

A and P Show - Helensville

Dates: Sat 27 Feb 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Helensville Showgrounds
Region: Auckland
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Kaitaia

Dates: Sat 27 Feb 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Kaitaia A and P Showgrounds
Region: Northland
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Kaikoura

Dates: Sat 27 Feb 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: South Bay Racecourse
Region: Canterbury
Cost: tbc

Belmont Regional Park Open day

Based at the shearers' quarters, this is an excellent opportunity to experience the park's splended hilltops. Public drive-up access on farm road normally locked off, save 1-2km uphill climb. Special FREE activities include: • 4WD volunteers to provide tops tours, ideally suited for less mobile; last dep 2pm • Introductory Orienteering, compliments Orienteering Hutt Valley; last dep 1pm • Educational talk-walks by local experts, less than an hour duration - Botanical: "Name that plant"; dep 11am & 1pm - Ecology: "What nature does here"; dep 11.30am & 1.30pm - History: "From colonical to WW2"; dep 12noon & 2pm - Geology: "Rocks and Land Forms in the Park"; dep 10.30am & 12.30pm • Tramp further afield with Tararua Tramping Club, easy grade; dep 10.30am • Mountain bike rides - family ride with Hutt Valley Mountain Bike Club; dep 11am rtn 12.30pm - ride further afield with TTC's mountain-biking group; dep 10am • Live folk music from lunchtime till 2pm Refreshments will be available. Please no dogs allowed; as this part of the park is on the working farm.

Dates: Sun 28 Feb 10, 10:00am - 3:00pm.
Venue: Belmont Regional park, Hill Road entrance
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Coatesville Classic Fun Run and Walk

Join us for the annual Coatesville charity 8k fun run and walk, plus a 2km kids' race. We'll be donating $5 per entry to entrants' schools. Website and online entry: www.coatesvilleclassic.co.nz

Dates: Sun 28 Feb 10, 8:45am.
Venue: Coatesville Reserve
Region: Auckland
Cost: Various

Barrington Big Fun

A fun event for all the family including stalls, entertainment and loads of free activities for the children.

Dates: Sun 28 Feb 10, 11:30am - 2:30pm.
Venue: Barrington Park
Region: Canterbury
Cost: Free

Heathcote River Day

This local favourite is back again and this river journey traditionally includes all kinds of weird and wacky homemade crafts. This community event is great fun for those on the water and those watching from the water’s edge. So take time over the holidays to design a homemade raft and join in the fun! Registrations from 12pm, Race starts 1pm event finishes at 3pm. Start: Heathcote River Jetty, opposite Waltham Lido Swimming Pool Finish: near Hansen Park, followed by a BBQ at St Martins Scout Den, free.

Dates: Sun 28 Feb 10, 11:30am - 2:30pm. Sun 21 Mar 10, 12:00pm - 3:00pm.
Venue: Heathcote River Jetty
Region: Canterbury
Cost: tbc

Art Talk: Sutra

Learn about this awe inspiring dance work that mixes Eastern and Western cultures. Since its first sell-out London performance in May 2008, Sutra has been celebrated by audiences and critics around the world. Presented by the United Kingdom’s leading dance house, Sadler’s Wells, this stunning production brings together one of Europe’s most exciting choreographer-dancers, Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui , Turner Prize-winning artist Antony Gormley, and Buddhist monks from the original Shaolin Temple in China. Sutra is a breathtaking sequence of movement and acrobatics, complemented by Gormley’s striking design of 21 wooden boxes. Constantly shifting, the boxes create a compelling, ever-changing environment for the performers. Polish composer Szymon Brzóska has created an original score for piano, percussions and strings, performed live on stage by five musicians. The culmination of these astonishing talents is an awe-inspiring dance work that provides a fascinating insight into the philosophy and faith behind the Shaolin tradition,and its position within a contemporary context. Before creating Sutra, Cherkaoui spent several months at the Shaolin Temple exploring his life-long interest in the Shaolin philosophy and its intrinsic relationship with martial arts. Sutra is a moving journey through faith and imagination – a truly miraculous creation inspired by the unwavering skill, strength and spirituality of the Buddhist Shaolin monks. A Sadler’s Wells Production. Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui / Antony Gormley / Szymon Brzóska. Monks from the Shaolin Temple. Image Credit: Hugo Glendinning.

Dates: Mon 01 Mar 10, 1:00pm - 2:00pm.
Venue: City Gallery
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

A and P Show - Morrinsville

Dates: Fri 05 Mar 10 - Sat 06 Mar 10, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Morrinsville Recreation Grounds
Region: Waikato
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Southland

Dates: Fri 05 Mar 10 - Sat 06 Mar 10, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Ascot Park Raceway
Region: Southland
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Amuri

Dates: Sat 06 Mar 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Amuri (Rotherham) A and P Showgrounds
Region: Canterbury
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Rai Valley

Dates: Sat 06 Mar 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Carluke Domain
Region: Nelson
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Temuka and Geraldine

Dates: Sat 06 Mar 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Winchester Showgrounds
Region: Canterbury
Cost: tbc

Chinese New Year Lantern Festival

Bring all the family to welcome in the new Year of the Tiger at the 6th Chinese New Year Lantern Festival in Victoria Square. Browse dozens of delicious Asian food and craft stalls and picnic on the grass amongst all the beautiful new lanterns specially commissioned in China. International performers include musicians from Shanghai and horsehead fiddle players from Inner Mongolia. Brought to you by Asia New Zealand Foundation and principal sponsor HSBC, with funding support by Christchurch City Council.

Dates: Sat 06 Mar 10 - Sun 07 Mar 10, every day, 5:00pm - 10:30pm.
Venue: Victoria Square
Region: Canterbury
Cost: Free

Dirty Beasts and Other Stories

What happened to Little Red Riding Hood as she went through the forest? Is there another animal as vile as Crocky-Wock the crocodile? Do Bilbo and Legolas reach their destinations? And will you ever slam a door again? The answers to these questions and more will be presented in this quirky concert featuring the Zephyr Wind Quintet, pianist Diedre Irons and other leading instrumentalists. Oliver Hancock: Three Tolkien Miniatures Paul Patterson: Rebecca (who slammed doors for fun and perished miserably) Martin Butler: Dirty Beasts Paul Patterson: Little Red Riding Hood Duration: 60 mins Image: Quentin Blake

Dates: Sun 07 Mar 10, 2:00pm - 3:00pm.
Venue: Wellington Town Hall
Region: Wellington
Cost: A Reserve $36, A Reserve Friend $31, A Reserve (child) $18

Children's Day at Capital E

A day for celebrating children, Te Rā O Te Tamariki is a great way to celebrate with the whole family and make a fuss of the kids - especially as this year's theme is praise and encouragement. We'll be putting on a day of entertainment to help you and if you make your way to the event by walking, cycling or taking public transport you might just be lucky and get a special prize.

Dates: Sun 07 Mar 10, 11:00am - 2:00pm.
Venue: Illot Green
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

PSIS Children’s Day

Come along to the PSIS Children’s Day at the Groynes. Create some fantastic family memories enjoying all the free activities. There will be bouncy entertainment, performing arts, boat rides, soap and stone carving, face painting, water activities, sports and much more. This year the event includes the Teddy Bears’ Picnic at The Breeze Teddy Bears’ Picnic Lawn with entertainment for preschool and primary aged children. The stage performances throughout the day will highlight the diversity and skills of Christchurch’s talented young performers. The Groynes offers many walking tracks providing a great opportunity for lovers of nature, walkers and athletes to escape the noise of the central city.The lakes and waterways provide both recreational activities and habitat for wildlife such as trout and waterfowl. There are plenty of trout fishing opportunities (only for children). So come down with your picnic lunch and fishing rod and enjoy a fantastic day! The lakes and waterways provide both recreational activities and habitat for wildlife such as trout and waterfowl. There are plenty of trout fishing opportunities (only for children). So come down with your picnic lunch and fishing rod and enjoy a fantastic day!

Dates: Sun 07 Mar 10, 11:00am - 4:00pm.
Venue: Groynes Regional Park
Region: Canterbury
Cost: Free

Summer Concert Series - Picton Foreshore

In 2009 we were pleased to continue to develop the event into a Family Fun Day in correlation with National Children's Day - there was a themed children's corner which proved to be a huge hit with characters from The Wizard of Oz handing out lollies and gifts to the children- there were heaps of activities including face painting, a bouncy castle, balloon animals created by Pom Pom the Clown, guess how many lollies in the witches hat, and more. 2010 is destined to be as good, if not better. For musical pleasure the Blenheim and Districts Highland Pipe Band will perform, as well as The Noodles. They are one of Wellington's busiest professional cover bands, playing 4-6 nights a week in Wellington's top nightspots. Their repertoire ranges from classic rock through to contemporary - from the 1960's 'till today. So bring the children and have a great day out in Picton.

Dates: Sun 07 Mar 10, 2:00pm - 6:00pm.
Venue: Picton Foreshore
Region: Marlborough
Cost: Free

The Tragical Life of Cheeseboy - Upper Hutt

Step inside an enchanting travelling theatre tent to discover the weird and wonderful world of Cheeseboy. When a freak meteor turns his planet into a bubbling fondue, Cheeseboy embarks on a series of otherworldly adventures in search of his missing parents. Cheeseboy’s whimsical universe is brought to life by the magical storytelling of Stephen Sheehan. Set to the rich and emotive music of Quentin Grant, TheTragical Life of Cheeseboy incorporates exquisite set design with puppetry, projection, and ingeniously simple theatricality. Slingsby continues to direct captivating theatre pieces for young audiences and adults alike, canvassing both the dark and delightful aspects of human existence.Reminiscent of Edward Scissorhands, The Tragical Life of Cheeseboy is a richly imaginative production which will transport you to a most curious world.

Dates: Wed 10 Mar 10, 6:00pm.
Venue: Expressions Arts and Entertainment Centre
Region: Wellington
Cost: Adult $38.00, child $20.00 service fee will apply

A and P Show - Upper Clutha

Dates: Fri 12 Mar 10 - Sat 13 Mar 10, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Wanaka Showgrounds
Region: Otago
Cost: tbc

RaboPlus Big Coast

This one is for the whole family, The RaboPlus Big Coast is an entry-level, non-competitive two-day mountain bike ride through some of our region’s finest scenery, along the Rimutaka Rail Trail and the East Harbour Regional Park. Recall a bygone era on the Rimutaka Rail Trail then camp overnight next to Lake Wairarapa with music to boot. Day two is a spectacular journey round the south coast through normally unreachable private land to Eastbourne. Entry includes land access, four meals, gear, transport and entertainment. Register in advance. www.bigcoast.co.nz

Dates: Sat 13 Mar 10 - Sun 14 Mar 10, every day, 9:30am.
Venue: East Harbour Regional Park
Region: Wellington
Cost: $120 adult, $60 child

A and P Show - Kumeu

Dates: Sat 13 Mar 10 - Sun 14 Mar 10, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Kumeu Showgrounds
Region: Auckland
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Cheviot

Dates: Sat 13 Mar 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Cheviot
Region: Canterbury
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Mayfield

Dates: Sat 13 Mar 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Mayfield Showgrounds
Region: Canterbury
Cost: tbc

New Zealand Post Young Writers and Readers Day

• Make a Crooked Man Have fun with rhyme, colour and clothes pegs while helping acclaimed illustrator Gavin Bishop create a giant and colourful Crooked Man. When: 10am Duration: 45 mins Recommended for ages 4-8 • Character Crafting Discover the art of character with Fifi Colston in this workshop where kids will create a character on paper while learning about the art of illustration. When: 11.15am Duration: 45 mins Recommended for ages 6-8 • Picture Poems Come along and make words come to life as Paula Green introduces her magical picture poems. This hands-on session is all about having fun with words. When: 12.30pm Duration: 45 mins Recommended for ages 4-8 • Making Friends Enjoy a magical hour of story and conversation with Joy Cowley, one of our most celebrated writers. When: 1.30pm Duration: 45 mins Recommended for ages 6-8

Dates: Sun 14 Mar 10, 10:00am - 2:30pm.
Venue: Capital E
Region: Wellington
Cost: General Admission $5

Tumeke Taita - Kids

Tumeke Taita is Taita’s very own neighbourhood festival. Come along for a great day of free family entertainment including music, dance, stalls, food and activities for children. For more HOT events in the HUTT, check out www.summerscene.co.nz

Dates: Sat 20 Mar 10, 9:00am - 3:00pm.
Venue: Taita Shopping Centre
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

A and P Show - Greymouth

Dates: Sat 20 Mar 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Hawarden Domain
Region: Canterbury
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Methven

Dates: Sat 20 Mar 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Ashburton A and P Showgrounds
Region: Canterbury
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Flaxbourne

Dates: Sun 21 Mar 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Weld Park
Region: Marlborough
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Malvern

Dates: Sat 27 Mar 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Sheffield Showgrounds
Region: Canterbury
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Auckland

Dates: Thu 01 Apr 10 - Mon 05 Apr 10, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: ASB Showgrounds
Region: Auckland
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Mackenzie

Dates: Mon 05 Apr 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: MacKenzie County A and P Showgrounds
Region: Canterbury
Cost: tbc

A and P Show - Taieri

Dates: Mon 05 Apr 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Middlemarch Showgrounds
Region: Otago
Cost: tbc

The Power of the Stitch

The Biennial National Conference of the Association of New Zealand Embroiderers Guilds will present several exhibitions in Hamilton July 2010. • "The Might of the Stitch and The Extension of the Stitch" at Arts Post for month of July. • "The Courage of the Stitch, The Magic of Stitich, The Exploration of the Stitch at Waikato Diocesan School for Girls 10th t0 15th July 2010. Entry to the Exhibitions is still open and full details of the rules, dates etc are the website www.embroidery2010.co.nz. Workshop spaces are also available (12th to 15th July 2010), bookings must be made prior to the 31st March. Workshop availability, dates, and costs are on the above website.

Dates: Sat 10 Jul 10 - Thu 15 Jul 10, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Hamilton - Various
Region: Waikato
Cost: tbc

Fantasy Cave

The Dannevirke Fantasy Cave has been developed over 16 years into a exhibit that both children and adults will love to explore. Tremendous skill has been put into creating nursery rhyme and story book characters that actually move, they must be seen! Fantasy Cave is open the end of November, all December, school holidays and by appointment for groups. The Cave is administered by Dannevirke Cave Dwellers Inc, a group of 13 volunteers. The Dannevirke Fantasy Cave was the winner of the Arts And Cultural category and overall winners of the TrustPower - Tararua Community Awards.

Dates: on Sat, 10:00am - 12:30pm.
Venue: Dannevirke Fantasy Cave
Region: Manawatu Whanganui
Cost: Children $1, adults $4

The Dannevirke Domain

The 20 hectare Domain is a great place to stop off if you are passing through or to visit if stopping over. Come and enjoy the gardens while the children make good use of the impressive "Viking Ship" playground. The lower section of the Domain is scenic and tranquil, ideal for a picnic before viewing the deer park and wandering across the bridge at the duck pond.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Dannevirke Domain
Region: Manawatu Whanganui
Cost: Free

Lake Horowhenua Domain

Lake Horowhenua is located two kilometres to the west of Levin, and is the scene of rowing, yachting, picnic areas and playgrounds. The lake, also known as Punahau, is only two metres in depth, is fed by various small streams, and drained by the Hokio Stream. Once surrounded by podocarp forest as the centre of a rich wetland ecosystem, today the trees are gone and the wetland has been substantially drained. The lake is owned by the Māori Muaupoko iwi, who, with the help of the Horowhenua Lake Trust, are actively attempting to restore the wetland system (that also contains the smaller Lake Papaitonga) to its former state as a conservation area.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Lake Horowhenua
Region: Manawatu Whanganui
Cost: tbc