Open Art Studios Upper Harbour returns, 9 & 10 May 2026

For one weekend only, a series of normally private art studios across Auckland’s Upper Harbour will open their doors to the public, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at how art is created.

Returning for its second year, Open Art Studios Upper Harbour takes place on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May 2026, inviting visitors inside the working spaces of local artists — from home studios and tucked-away creative hubs to established studio environments not usually accessible to the public.

Funded by the Upper Harbour Local Board, the expanded 2026 programme features nine studios and 20 artists, offering visitors the chance to move between spaces and experience a diverse range of practices, materials and artistic approaches.

From sculptors and painters to illustrators, ceramic artists and photographers, each studio offers a distinct experience — with artists on hand to share their process, demonstrate techniques and offer original works for purchase.

Led by Renée Tanner of Lightbox Projects, the event continues to spotlight the depth of creative talent across the area.

Renée Tanner, Event Manager of Lightbox Projects, says: “This is about opening up spaces that people wouldn’t normally get to see. After a strong response in our first year, we’re already seeing even more artists come on board for 2026, with additional studios still to be confirmed.

“These are real working studios — often private, personal environments — and for one weekend, the public is invited in.”

“It’s a chance to experience art where it’s actually made. To meet the artist, ask questions, and see the process up close — not just the finished work on a gallery wall.

Unlocking Auckland’s hidden creative spaces

Studios are located across Greenhithe, Albany, Rosedale, Unsworth Heights and surrounding Upper Harbour suburbs, spanning everything from intimate home studios to shared creative environments.

Renée continues: “Open Art Studios is also part of a wider series of open studio events across Auckland, with Kaipātiki and Waitākere opening their studios later in the year, and we’re incredibly proud to be part of this growing network connecting artists and communities.”

Some of the participating artists this year, include:

●      Ryan Mateo Art  (Albany Heights)- A self-taught wire sculptor inviting visitors into his home-based studio, where metal is shaped into expressive forms. Guests can watch the creative process, explore a range of hanging and table-mounted sculptures, and take part in hands-on wire weaving, with original works available to purchase.

●      Barry Ross Smith (Greenhithe) - an oil painter creating surreal imagery of islands dotted with colonial villas and oversized birds. His works obliquely draw concern for our environment and the after effects of colonialism upon our native species.

●      Sarah Ward (Greenhithe) - an award-winning textile artist creating predominantly abstract quilts, known for bold and expressive works as well as more restrained palettes.

●      The Freemanz Studio (Greenhithe), offering a glimpse into hyper-realistic pastel works in progress, revealing the precision and detail behind each piece.

●      Mead Ceramics and Apollo Clay & Art – live pottery demonstrations across the weekend for all ages, with visitors also able to purchase handmade cups, bowls and everyday pieces directly from the artists.

Visitors can expect live demonstrations, artist conversations, and the opportunity to purchase work directly from the studio.

Across the weekend, a series of special events offer additional ways to connect with the artists and experience their work.

Opening Night | Friday 8 May, 5pm–7pm | Greenhithe Old School Building
Kick off the weekend with a relaxed opening evening bringing together artists, organisers and the local community. Enjoy drinks and nibbles, meet the creatives behind the studios, and pick up your event map to plan your weekend route.

Zen Tea and Mindful Painting | Sunday 10 May,  2pm–4pm | Mount Top Art Studio, Unsworth Heights
Step into a calm, reflective studio setting with artist Xie Yi for an immersive session combining traditional tea rituals with mindful painting. A slower, sensory experience designed to encourage creativity, presence and connection.

Event Details

What: Open Art Studios Upper Harbour

When: Saturday 9 & Sunday 10 May 2026, 10am–4pm

Where: Artist studios across the Upper Harbour area

Cost: Free entry

Website: www.upperharbourarts.co.nz

Whether you’re an art collector, a lover of beautiful pieces or simply curious, this is a rare opportunity to step inside private studios and experience art at its source, and one not to be missed.

www.upperharbourarts.co.nz

From early May, Hawke’s Bay moves into a strong run of headline events, with major concerts, touring acts, and standout performances across Napier and Hastings. It is the ideal time to plan a stay at Ace High Motor Inn and experience the region at its best.

May: Major Concerts and Tribute Shows

May is packed with high-profile live music and touring productions:

• The Pink Floyd Experience – The Wall Tour (7 May) at Napier Municipal Theatre, a full-scale production recreating one of rock’s most iconic albums
• Rock Tenors – Anthems Reloaded (17 May) bringing a powerful mix of opera and rock
• Landslide – Fleetwood Mac & Stevie Nicks Tribute Show (23 May) at The Cabana, celebrating classic hits from one of music’s most influential bands
• Ireland: The Voyage (29 May) a large-scale theatrical production combining music, dance, and storytelling

May stands out as one of the strongest months for live entertainment, with multiple major shows drawing visitors into the region.

June: Winter Performances and Orchestral Highlights

June continues with a strong line-up of indoor events and touring acts:

• Best of the Boss – The Bruce Springsteen Experience (6 June) delivering a high-energy tribute performance
• NZSO: Romeo & Juliet (11 June) at Toitoi Opera House, Hastings, featuring Prokofiev’s iconic score performed by the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra
• Fabric-a-brac Hawke’s Bay (13 June) a large fabric and craft market supporting Cranford Hospice
• Ongoing theatre productions, live music, and community events across Napier and Hastings

June offers a balance of headline performances and relaxed winter activities.

July: Winter Highlights and Touring Shows

July continues with seasonal events and touring entertainment:

• Matariki Mahuika Beach Fires (11 July) a cultural celebration on Napier’s coastline
• Magic Men Australia – Feel The Magic Tour (10 July) a high-energy touring performance
• Rat Pack and Marilyn: Vegas Legends (22–23 July) a classic tribute show experience
• School holiday activities and indoor events across the region

Stay Close to the Action

From The Pink Floyd Experience and Fleetwood Mac tribute in May to the NZSO Romeo & Juliet performance on 11 June, Hawke’s Bay delivers a strong calendar of major events through the cooler months.

Ace High Motor Inn provides a convenient and comfortable base, with easy access to Napier, Hastings, and all key venues across the region.

Contact Us:
 +64 6 843 3109
 0800 270 361
 www.acehigh.co.nz
 info@acehigh.co.nz

Contact MediaPA

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Turua Gallery is proud to present Vintage, a highly anticipated solo exhibition by celebrated New Zealand artist Jody Hope Gibbons, opening from 5pm on Friday 15 May and running through to 27 May.
This deeply personal exhibition offers collectors and art lovers a rare opportunity to experience The Jody Hope Gibbons Archival Collection — a curated body of works spanning decades of the artist’s practice. Featuring pieces held closely by the artist for years, Vintage traces the evolution of Gibbons’ signature style, while revealing the enduring threads that connect her work across time.
One of the original artists to join Turua Gallery, Gibbons has long been a favourite among collectors — many of whom credit her work as their very first art purchase. Others have followed her journey for years, building collections that reflect her dynamic evolution while retaining the unmistakable essence of her practice.
“We often say Jody is a master with colour, but she is equally a master of texture, layering and subtle detail,” says Turua Gallery owner Liss Wallace. “Vintage is incredibly special — it’s not just an exhibition, it’s a window into an artist’s life and creative journey. These are works she has lived with, loved, and, in many cases, held onto for years.”
Visitors to the exhibition will also experience a unique gallery setting, with a selection of Gibbons’ personal vintage collection — including rugs, chairs and found objects — thoughtfully incorporated into the exhibition design. An avid collector, Gibbons draws significant inspiration from these pieces.
“They really do influence my work,” she explains. “Old worn surfaces, the patina, the layers of colour and history — they all inform what I’m creating. Sometimes I’ll find something in a vintage store, and later you’ll see that colour palette appear in a painting.”
Known for her richly layered works that span abstract painterly forms, contemporary landscapes and assemblage, Gibbons’ practice is driven by an innate and lifelong need to create.
“I have to paint. I can’t imagine a time when I won’t,” she says. “It’s not a chore, it’s a choice — something I need to do.”
That drive has been present since childhood. Gibbons recalls being unable to leave the art table at kindergarten, preferring to create rather than play outside — an instinct that has shaped a lifelong career defined by dedication, curiosity and continuous evolution.
Her work has never stood still. Instead, it has developed organically over time.
“It’s evolved naturally,” she says. “There’s an underlying thread through the work — even as it changes, it’s still me. I can’t stay still, I just keep moving forward.”
Vintage also offers insight into the artist’s process, revealing the depth behind works that may, at first glance, appear spontaneous.
“These works are not a happy accident,” Gibbons explains. “There’s composition, structure, proportion — layers and marks underneath that give the painting its depth. There’s a lot going on beneath the surface.”
While the exhibition celebrates her career, it also comes with a sense of vulnerability.
“You’re putting a part of yourself out there,” she says. “It doesn’t get easier — there’s always that feeling of exposure.”
Adding to the emotional weight of the show is the fact that many of the works on display are personal favourites, pieces that have lived in her home and studio for years.
“It will be exciting, but also a bit sad,” she admits. “Some of these works have been part of my everyday life for a long time.”
Despite the nerves, Vintage promises to be a standout exhibition — a rare and intimate look at one of New Zealand’s most beloved contemporary artists, and a celebration of a career defined by passion, persistence and an unwavering commitment to making.
Gibbons’ work is held in private collections across New Zealand and internationally. Her previous solo exhibition with Turua Gallery in 2021 sold out online, despite being held during pandemic restrictions.
With strong demand already building, collectors are encouraged to register their interest with Liss on melissa@turuagallery.co.nz ahead of the presale on Thursday 14 May.

Exhibition Details:
Vintage – The Jody Hope Gibbons Archival Collection
Opening: 5pm, Friday 15 May
Exhibition Dates: 15 – 27 May
Location: Turua Gallery, 10 A Turua Gallery, St Heliers, Auckland

About Turua Gallery
Turua Gallery is dedicated to making contemporary art accessible within a welcoming and relaxed environment. Representing both established and emerging New Zealand artists, the gallery presents a curated programme of solo and group exhibitions that prioritise emotional connection, craftsmanship and storytelling.
Alongside original paintings, Turua Gallery also showcases limited-edition prints, sculptures and ceramics, celebrating the breadth of artistic talent across Aotearoa New Zealand.
turuagallery.co.nz
@turuagallery
 
 

Choosing an escort in Auckland is not simply about availability. For many, it is about finding a refined, discreet, and genuinely enjoyable experience that aligns with personal expectations. With a wide range of options available, knowing what to look for can make all the difference.

The first consideration should always be reputation. Established agencies with a long-standing presence tend to offer a higher level of reliability and professionalism. An agency that has operated consistently over time demonstrates not only stability, but also a commitment to maintaining standards and client trust.

Equally important is the quality of profiles. A reputable service will present companions in a clear and transparent manner, with well-written descriptions and professional imagery. Authenticity is key. The best experiences often come from companions who are not only visually appealing, but also personable, engaging, and genuinely attentive.

Discretion is another essential factor. A high-end escort experience should feel seamless, private, and respectful of boundaries. This extends beyond the encounter itself and includes communication, booking processes, and overall client care. Agencies that prioritise discretion tend to attract a more discerning clientele and maintain a stronger reputation.

For many, the appeal lies in the Girlfriend Experience, often referred to as GFE. This style of companionship emphasises connection, warmth, and natural interaction. Rather than something transactional, it offers a more relaxed and engaging dynamic, where conversation and chemistry play a central role.

Variety and selection also contribute to the overall experience. A well-curated agency will offer a diverse range of companions, each with distinct personalities and qualities. This allows clients to find someone who aligns with their preferences, whether they value elegance, charm, intelligence, or a particular presence.

Ultimately, choosing the right escort in Auckland comes down to trust, presentation, and the ability to deliver a consistent standard of quality. It is about selecting a service that understands the importance of discretion, authenticity, and attention to detail.

Dark Angels, an established escort agency based in Auckland, reflects these principles through its carefully curated selection of companions and its commitment to professionalism. With a focus on refined experiences and genuine connection, it continues to serve clients who expect a higher standard of companionship.

For those seeking a more considered and elevated experience, taking the time to choose the right agency can transform a simple booking into something far more memorable.

For many New Zealand homeowners, buying a spa pool starts with a simple search and quickly becomes a much bigger decision. With so many models on the market, and a wide range of prices, features, and build standards, knowing what to compare can make a major difference to long-term value and satisfaction.

While appearance often draws buyers in first, industry professionals say the most important factors are usually the ones that are less visible at a glance. Build quality, insulation, servicing support, and suitability for New Zealand conditions all play a major role in how a spa performs over time. Trueform Spas, based in Helensville, has spent more than 40 years manufacturing spa pools in New Zealand and says buyers are becoming more informed about what matters beyond the initial price tag.

One of the first things buyers are encouraged to assess is how and where the spa will be used. A couple looking for evening relaxation may need something very different from a family wanting room for children or guests. Size, seating layout, jet placement, and overall depth all affect comfort, and choosing the wrong layout can lead to a spa that looks good on paper but gets used less often in practice.

Insulation is another major point of difference. In New Zealand’s outdoor conditions, a spa needs to retain heat efficiently to keep running costs under control. Lower-priced models can sometimes appear attractive upfront, but if they lack proper insulation or use lower-grade materials, they may cost more in power and maintenance over time. For many homeowners, the better comparison is not just purchase price, but overall ownership costs across several years.

Support and servicing are also important considerations, especially for larger purchases intended to last. Buyers are increasingly asking where a spa is made, how easy it is to source parts, and whether help is available locally if something needs attention. New Zealand-made products can offer an advantage here, particularly when manufacturers and service teams are based in the same market as their customers. Trueform says this local support is one of the reasons many homeowners choose to buy from a domestic manufacturer rather than relying on imported stock alone.

Health and wellbeing have also become a bigger part of the buying conversation. Spa pools are no longer seen only as luxury items, with many buyers looking at them as tools for stress relief, recovery, and better sleep. Features such as ergonomic seating and targeted hydrotherapy jets can make a meaningful difference for people wanting to use a spa regularly rather than occasionally.

Warren Leslie, Managing Director of Trueform, says buyers tend to be best served by looking at the full picture rather than narrowing their choice too early around a single factor.

“People often start with price, but they quickly realise that quality, comfort, and long-term support are just as important,” he says. “A spa should be something you enjoy for years, so it makes sense to compare how it is built, how it performs, and who is standing behind it.”

As more New Zealanders continue to invest in their homes and outdoor living spaces, the spa pool market is likely to remain competitive. For buyers, that means more choice, but also a greater need to compare carefully.

Industry advice remains consistent. Look beyond the brochure photos, ask questions about insulation and servicing, think realistically about how the spa will be used, and consider long-term value rather than upfront cost alone. In a category where comfort, durability, and support all matter, taking a more informed approach at the start can lead to a much better result over time.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ssi-9wS1so&list=RD0Ssi-9wS1so&start_radio=1

Autumn and early winter are a fantastic time to visit Hawke’s Bay, with a steady line-up of events across Napier and the wider region. Whether you’re after live entertainment, markets, or cultural experiences, there is always something happening within easy reach of Ace High Motor Inn.

April: Festivals, Exhibitions and Live Entertainment

April kicks off with some of the region’s most popular annual events:

• The Extravaganza Fair (3–6 April) – a vibrant, family-friendly festival with food trucks, market stalls, and live entertainment at Anderson Park
• Hidden in History: Trailblazing Women of Hawke’s Bay (running until 19 April) – a free exhibition highlighting influential local women at MTG Hawke’s Bay
• The King of Pop – Michael Jackson Concert Experience (24 April) – a high-energy tribute show celebrating one of the world’s most iconic performers
  

April offers a strong mix of outdoor events and indoor entertainment, ideal for both families and couples.

May: Markets, Music and Local Experiences

May brings a slightly slower pace, with a focus on lifestyle and community events:

• Napier Urban Farmers’ Market (every Saturday, ongoing) – a must-visit for fresh produce, local food, and artisan goods
• Wine, Books and More (from 20 May, ongoing) – relaxed social evenings combining literature and local flavour
• A variety of workshops, live music, and small group events across Napier and Hastings
  

These events offer visitors a chance to experience Hawke’s Bay like a local.

June: Live Shows and Winter Culture

As winter sets in, June still delivers standout events and indoor experiences:

• Best of the Boss – Bruce Springsteen Experience (6 June) – a full-scale tribute concert celebrating classic hits
• Napier Live Poets (from 2 June, ongoing) – creative spoken word sessions in a relaxed setting
• Shockwave: Hawke’s Bay’s Great Quake, 1931 (running throughout June) – an immersive exhibition at MTG Hawke’s Bay
  

June is perfect for those looking to enjoy Hawke’s Bay’s arts and culture scene at a slower pace.

Stay Close to It All

From major events like The Extravaganza Fair and the Michael Jackson tribute show to markets, exhibitions, and live performances, Hawke’s Bay offers something for everyone this season.

Ace High Motor Inn provides a convenient and comfortable base, with easy access to Napier, Hastings, and all the events happening across the region.

Contact Us:
 +64 6 843 3109
 0800 270 361
 www.acehigh.co.nz
 info@acehigh.co.nz

Contact MediaPA

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

One year after opening its doors and igniting a love affair with romance reading in Auckland, Enamoured Books is celebrating its first birthday with a community event designed to help people slow down, indulge in stories, and romanticise the everyday.

On Saturday 11 April, from 10am–5pm, the Remuera bookstore will transform into the cosy book-lover experience many readers dream of — sipping coffee while browsing shelves of romance novels, discovering new authors, and treating themselves to a stack of stories to take home.
For one day only, visitors will be able to purchase coffee from a special in-store Enamoured Books cart, with the experience beautifully styled by Babylon, creating a lush bookshop moment where visitors can enjoy a coffee in an elevated, cosy setting while discovering their next great love story.

The first 50 guests to purchase a romance book on the day will receive a curated goodie bag filled with indulgences for book lovers, including gorgeous romance books and products from brands such as Karen Murrell, Maebel, Saint Beauty, No Ugly, The Beauty Hub and Babylon.
Shoppers will also have access to limited-edition Enamoured tote bags and the chance to win back the entire book haul they purchase on the day.
The focus remains on creating a relaxed experience where visitors can browse at their own pace — taking a quiet moment to immerse themselves in stories while romanticising their everyday lives. However, staff will be available throughout the day to help readers discover their next favourite title and guide them through the many sub-genres of romance.

But the celebration is about more than a birthday — it’s about the community that has grown around the store. “Opening Enamoured was my dream, but what has happened over the past year has been even bigger than I imagined,” says founder Ruby Wallace.
“We’ve created a space where people can talk about romance books openly, ask questions, and explore the genre without shame. The community that has formed here is incredibly special.”
“We’ve seen people make friends at our events while standing in line, browsing the same section, or chatting about their favourite books. Some of the regulars who now come in together actually met here for the first time.”

A Safe Space for Romance Readers
Since launching, Enamoured has become one of the few bookstores in New Zealand dedicated entirely to romance — a genre that has seen a global resurgence in recent years.
But for Wallace, the store’s mission goes beyond selling books.
“Romance novels have long been written by women, for women, and there’s a strong focus on female pleasure and emotional connection within these stories,” she says.
“For a long time people felt embarrassed about reading romance. Many of us remember secretly borrowing our mum’s Mills & Boon books. Now readers are proudly displaying them on their shelves, discussing them online, and building communities around them.”
Alongside celebrating the genre, the store also takes a thoughtful approach to guidance, helping readers understand sub-genres, themes, and trigger warnings so they can choose books that are right for them.
The bookstore champions a sex-positive, shame-free environment, encouraging readers to explore the genre in a way that feels comfortable.
“Pleasure is subjective, and romance books can actually be a really positive tool for people to understand their own boundaries, interests, and fantasies,” Wallace explains.
“Whether someone prefers sweet love stories or something spicier, the most important thing is that they feel safe exploring it.”

Breaking Down the Misconceptions
Part of Enamoured’s mission is also to challenge common misconceptions about darker romance sub-genres.
“There’s often an assumption that darker books exist purely for shock value,” Wallace says.
“But when you read them in full context, they’re still romance stories — relationships built on care, trust and connection. The intensity may be part of the narrative, but the emotional relationship remains the centre of the story.”
The store encourages readers to take ownership of their reading journey — learning about trigger warnings, understanding what themes they are comfortable with, and exploring the genre at their own pace.
“Sexual empowerment is about autonomy and education,” Wallace says.
“We want people to feel confident making choices about what they read.”
Encouraging Responsible Reading
While Enamoured is proudly a sex-positive and shame-free space, the bookstore also places strong emphasis on age guidance and responsible reading.
Wallace says building a healthy reading culture means ensuring readers understand the themes within the books they choose.
“We absolutely welcome young adult readers into the store and want them to feel comfortable exploring the romance genre,” she says.
“But we are also very clear that some books contain mature themes and are recommended for readers 16+. Education and transparency are really important to us.”
For books containing darker or more explicit themes, Enamoured provides clear messaging and encourages readers to review content guidance before purchasing.
“In those cases we clearly note that the book is recommended for readers over 16. Trigger warnings are included inside the books and on our website, and if anyone has questions they are always welcome to reach out for guidance.”
The approach reflects the store’s broader philosophy — empowering readers with knowledge rather than gatekeeping the genre.
“One of the most important parts of sexual empowerment is autonomy,” Wallace says.
“That includes understanding what you’re comfortable with and feeling confident making decisions about what you read.”

Romanticising the Everyday
For Wallace, the first birthday event is about returning to the magic of the store’s opening day — and celebrating the community that has embraced the concept.
“At Enamoured we always say we want people to romanticise their lives,” she says.
“That might look like taking an hour to sit with a coffee and a book, treating yourself to a story that makes you feel something, or simply finding a space where you feel seen and understood.”
“One year on, that dream is still at the heart of everything we do.”

EVENT DETAILS
Enamoured Books First Birthday Celebration
Date: Saturday 11 April
Time: 10am – 5pm
Location: Enamoured Books, 346 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland
On the day:
• Coffee cart experience inside the store from 10am – 2pm
• First 50 guests to purchase a romance book receive a curated goodie bag
• Limited edition Enamoured tote bags
• Chance to win back your book haul
• A celebration of romance reading and community

About Enamoured Books
Enamoured Books was founded with a simple yet powerful mission: to create a space where romance lovers can indulge in their passion for reading without judgement.
Romance books are more than just stories — they are an escape, a form of empowerment, and a way to explore love in all its forms.
The store offers an extensive selection of romance titles spanning contemporary love stories, rom-coms, fantasy romance and spicier reads, celebrating diversity and inclusivity across the genre.
At Enamoured, every reader is invited to step into their own love story — romanticising life, embracing their interests, and connecting with a vibrant community of fellow book lovers.
enamouredbooks.co.nz
Follow Enamoured Books on social media
Instagram: @enamouredbooks
Facebook: @enamouredbooks
TikTok: @enamoured.books
 

Auckland comes alive from April through to early winter with a vibrant mix of cultural festivals, live performances, and creative events. For visitors planning a stay, Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites offers a comfortable and convenient base, with easy access to the city’s top venues and attractions.

Here are some of the standout events happening from the start of April:

• World of Cultures Festival (March 21- April 5)
• Location: Various locations across Auckland
• Kicking off the month, this citywide celebration showcases Auckland’s incredible cultural diversity. Visitors can explore international food, music, dance, and traditions through a variety of free and family-friendly events held across the region.
• Dreamer Indoor Light Festival (3 to 12 April)
• Location: New Zealand International Convention Centre
• This immersive experience transforms indoor spaces into a glowing, interactive environment. It is a visually striking event that appeals to all ages.
• Autumn Armageddon Expo (25 to 27 April)
• Location: Auckland Showgrounds
• One of Auckland’s largest pop culture events, Armageddon brings together fans of gaming, comics, film, and cosplay. Expect special guests, interactive exhibits, and plenty of entertainment throughout the weekend.
• Taite Music Prize (29 April)
• Location: Q Theatre
• This respected event celebrates outstanding New Zealand music, recognising albums that show creativity and artistic depth. It is a highlight for music lovers and industry insiders alike.
• New Zealand International Comedy Festival (1-24 May)
• Location: Multiple venues including SkyCity Theatre and The Civic
• Taking over venues across the city, this festival delivers weeks of laughter with local and international comedians performing stand up, improv, and more.
• Auckland Writers Festival Waituhi o Tāmaki (12-17 May)
• Location: Aotea Centre
• A major cultural highlight, this festival features renowned authors and thinkers from New Zealand and around the world. Attendees can enjoy talks, panel discussions, and workshops in a lively and inspiring atmosphere.
• Auckland Festival of Photography (29 May - 14 June)
• Location: Various galleries across Auckland
• Closing out the season, this festival transforms Auckland into a citywide gallery. Exhibitions and installations highlight powerful visual storytelling from both emerging and established photographers.

With such a diverse calendar of events, there is something for every visitor to enjoy. Staying at Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites places you close to the heart of the action, while offering a relaxing retreat at the end of a busy day exploring Auckland.

Contact Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites

info@abf.net.nz

0508 899 699

https://www.bestwesternnewmarket.co.nz

Contact MediaPA

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

“A perfect day.”

That from Selwyn Sounds promoter, David Parlane who says from the first note played yesterday at 11am to the last at just after 8.30pm, the day was perfect.

8000 people dance, sat, drank and ate in the sun on Saturday at the Lincoln Domain, enjoying the ninth Selwyn Sounds. This year headliners were Tony Hadley ex Spandau Ballet and Irish superstar, now living in Australia, Ronan Keating.

The festival sold out in record time last year and people were still wanting tickets right up to the day.

“Everyone was there to have a good time, and they did,” says Parlane. “The dance area was full from the beginning to the end of the day. There was not a cloud in the sky and as things cooled in the evening when Ronan Keating came on, the vibe was magic.”

Perennial favourite Automatic 80s kicked things off at 11am with songs that had the crowd dancing and singing. Their version of 99 Luftballons sung in German by Pearl Runga was incredible.

OpShop were performing publicly for the first time in six years; they were tight and fun, their songs clearly resonating with the crowd. Mi Sex brought their usual wonderfully mad energy and talent to the stage, and When The Cats Away showed why they are such Kiwi music legends. Tony Hadley ex Spandau Ballet hit the stage next, performing an eclectic playlist (including Spandau Ballet’s hits True and Gold) which showed he still has an incredible and powerful voice.

Then Irish superstar Ronan Keating finished the day with a performance that had everyone spellbound. He finished with Life is a Rollercoaster; the crowd chanted “one more song” and he returned to the stage; this crowd was not going to let him go until they heard it.

Parlane is already planning the 10th anniversary Selwyn Sounds for next year.

“If you thought this lineup was incredible…..just you wait for 2027,” he says.

Annual music festival Selwyn Sounds, which sold out in record time late last year, is almost upon us.

On March 7, a crowd of 8000 will pack the Lincoln Domain for a great day of music from a range of acts, headlined by international stars Ronan Keating and Tony Hadley - ex-Spandau Ballet.

Selwyn Sounds promoter, David Parlane, says all of the musicians and performers can’t wait to hit the stage. He adds that despite being sold out he’s are still getting inquiries about tickets.

“We’ve had a group who had bought VIP tickets to our corporate area contact us, and due to unforeseen circumstances they can’t make it so those tickets are now available. But that’s it,” he says. “Everything has been snapped up. There’s even a massive wait list for campervan and other vehicle parking spots. It’s going to be an incredible day.”

Crowd favourites Automatic 80’s will kick things off at 11am, followed by one of New Zealand’s most loved rock bands OpShop, then 80’s legends Mi Sex, followed by incredible icons of live Kiwi performance When the Cat’s Away. The penultimate performer of the day is Tony Hadley (ex-Spandau Ballet) and just when you thought it couldn’t get any better - headliner and Irish superstar Ronan Keating brings it all home.

Key information for ticket holders is available here or (go to) selwynsounds.co.nz/FAQs. It includes what you can and can’t take into the festival, how and when you can access the site; ID, entry and festival rules, and parking/site map information.

Parking opens at 8:45am, express pass and corporate gates open at 9:30am, general admission gates open at 10:00am and the festival runs from 11:00am to 8:30pm

Additional

More than 70,000 tickets have been sold for Selwyn Sounds since it began in 2017.

Selwyn Sounds has supported the community with $320,000 brought into the local and wider Canterbury economy – that includes approx. $10k a year for the local school from carparking for the event.

More than 66 bands and performers have rocked the Lincoln Domain at Selwyn Sounds since 2017.

www.selwynsounds.co.nz

All FAQs selwynsounds.co.nz/FAQs

With event day fast approaching, excitement is building for the Frankton McDonald’s Colour Run/Walk, made possible by the generous support of local and national sponsors and partners who have come together to back this community fundraiser. Set to light up Innes Common at Hamilton Lake on Sunday 15 February 2026, the event will run from 10am to 2pm, with gates opening at 9am for early check-in, filling the lakefront with colour, music and connection.

This 4km run and walk is designed for all ages and abilities, bringing families, friends and workplaces together in support of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC). Every step taken and every ticket sold helps support families when they need it most. Full event details, tickets and donations are available at www.HamiltonColourRun.co.nz.

The Businesses Making This Event Possible

Community events don’t happen on goodwill alone, and this one is no exception. We’re incredibly grateful to the businesses who have stepped up to support this kaupapa.

At the forefront is Platinum Sponsor McDonald’s Restaurants Limited, whose long-standing commitment to family wellbeing and community connection underpins the heart of this event.

Our Gold level Sponsors – JP & Associates, After, Omega Finance, Aman Bali & Co, The Bottle-O Te Rapa and No.1 Motels – have played a vital role in bringing the Colour Run/Walk to life. We also acknowledge Blackfox Creative for providing creative direction across the event’s marketing and website.

Colour, Energy and Interaction on the Course

Participants can expect plenty of action along the route thanks to our Colour Station Sponsors, who will be out there creating memorable moments:

• Wash Rite, adding both colour and cooling fun with a water-spray truck
• Winger Motors
• Hamilton Eye Clinic
• Laser Eye Centre
• Camarosa
• Virtual Print

We also thank our Silver Sponsors – BNZ, Lorna Jane, Glenview School and Parry Group of Restaurants – for backing this community fundraiser.

Supporting the Event from the Ground Up

A number of partners are working behind the scenes to ensure everything runs safely and smoothly on the day. Our thanks go to:

• JSR Refrigeration & Air Conditioning
• TR Trucks
• Sitech Systems Limited
• Elyte Hydration
• Eagle Security
• The Warehouse
  

We also acknowledge MediaPA for their role in helping share the story of this event across the wider community.

Join Us and Be Part of the Colour

As the countdown continues, now is the time to get involved. Whether you’re running, walking, volunteering or donating, your support makes a real difference for RMHC and the families they care for.

The Frankton McDonald’s Colour Run/Walk is a celebration of what can happen when a community comes together. To every sponsor, partner, supporter and participant, thank you for helping make Hamilton Lake shine.

� Tickets & donations: www.HamiltonColourRun.co.nz

FRANKTON McDONALD’S COLOUR RUN / WALK
� Innes Common, Hamilton Lake
� Sunday 15 February 2026
⏰ 10am–2pm (gates open 9am)

Live music, face painting, photo booth fun, giant bubbles, splashes of colour and water, coffee, food trucks, kids’ activities, and emergency services displays will all be part of the day.