Restaurant Month
1—31 August
Auckland’s biggest dining event is back for 2021. Featuring unforgettable dining experiences, specially tailored for the month, alongside some fantastic deals spread over 100+ restaurants. The month flaunts collaborations between brands and chefs, highlighting the sheer talent and creativity these kitchens host. A list of participating restaurants can be found at heartofthecity.co.nz, tickets and bookings are done through the restaurants’ websites.
Auckland Loaded Tough Guy and Gal Challenge
7 August
Helensville Tennis Club
The tough guy and gal challenge puts an exhilaratingly fun spin on your average running event. Challenge yourself, co-workers, the family, or friends to a memorable and messy off-road obstacle race. The race includes swamp crossings, climbing frames, crawling, native bush trails, spectacular views, tunnels, hurdles and more. Dressing-up is encouraged, go at your own pace, there are spot and merit-based prizes, hot showers, and free parking.
The Firebird
12—15 August
Aotea Centre—Kiri Te Kawana Theatre
Resident choreographer, Loughlan Prior, brings new direction to this thrilling ballet, that was first showcased in Paris in 1910. The Firebird is an untameable force, that brings change, hope and rebirth through her enchanting power. Backed by the spine-tingling grandeur of Stravinsky’s iconic score, Prior brings The Firebird forward to a different timeline, with the natural world threatened and humanity staring into the abyss. However, the captured firebird shows that like a phoenix, humanity too can rise from the ashes. This piece is a breathtaking work of social commentary, precision, beauty and power.
WriteFest
14 August
St Columba Centre
WriteFest brings an amazing group of wordsmiths and tutors together under one roof, for one stimulating day. If you’re a fiction writer, looking to improve your craft, or a newer writer looking to connect and learn; this is an investment for you! The nine workshops, six highly experienced and successful tutors, four special guests, three breaks and a panel discussion; provide ample opportunity to network and pick the brains of industry greats.
General Collective Lifestyle & Design Market
15 August
ASB Showgrounds
Showcasing hundreds of creatives and designers from across Aotearoa, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of lifestyle products, contemporary art, fashion, jewellery, toys, gifts, and designer homeware. With pieces from brands you know and love, as well as designer pieces you won’t find in shops. Not only is this a great way to expand your collections, support Kiwi artists and draw inspiration, but it also makes for a great day out.
Auckland Fried Chicken Festival
21 August
Shed 10
For any fried chicken lovers of foodies, this is the ultimate event. The Fried Chicken Festival features pop-ups from the best local restaurants and food trucks around. With live music, craft beer, wine and activities to keep you busy in-between, it’s bound to be a fun day out. Tickets are available online or at the door.
Fantail & Turtle Wine Club
25 August
Smales Farm
Hosted by the enthusiastic and knowledgeable Jemma Grobbelaar. Each meeting presents six wines, well paired cheeses, and excellent company. This month the club is exploring syrah and chardonnay. If you’re in the ‘not a chardonnay fan’ camp, you may just change your mind. The grapes for chardonnay, according to Grobbelaar, are some of the most neutral grapes used. Meaning, they’re heavily influenced by where they’re grown, soil and climate. So, with plenty to learn and nothing to lose – wine not?
Words—Bella Sampson
