We don't know about you, but we've certainly got that Friday feeling and can't wait for the weekend to start. There's a whole range of things to fill your diary with this weekend, from dining at one of Newmarket's brand new rooftop restaurants to colouring in the world's highest colouring wall. So without further ado, let's get planning!
Here are the best things to do in Auckland this weekend.
All Weekend
Auckland Diwali Festival
Auckland Diwali Festival takes over Queen Street and Aotea Square this weekend to celebrate Auckland’s vibrant Indian culture. Join in the free festivities, with an exciting array of live music and dance, street theatre and plenty of workshops. Sink your teeth into the delectable range of Indian cuisine, whilst taking in the magical fireworks display.
Colour-in the Sky
Who said colouring was just for kids? Adults and kids can make their mark on the world’s highest colouring wall this weekend at Colour-in the Sky at Auckland’s Sky Tower. Boasting a giant 6.5 metre-long wall, 186 metres above the ground, WOW! So pens at the ready and make sure you're wearing your creative hat. Where else can you get away with colouring on walls?
Artweek Auckland
Paint the city red (and blue, yellow, purple, green…) as Artweek Auckland takes over ten suburbs across the city. Showcasing the work of the talented artists in our city, you can get amongst free walking tours, workshops, exhibitions, tattooing and so much more across this ten-day festival. From the first-ever outdoor art market to the return of Late Night Art, and creating your own masterpiece, it’s time to get artsy in Auckland this weekend.
Thursday 10 October
Westfield Newmarket Rooftop Dining & Entertainment Precinct Grand Opening
It’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for, Auckland's first rooftop dining and entertainment precinct opens today. Clear your diaries as you might want to take the entire weekend eating and drinking your way around the multitude of restaurants. As well as digging into the delicious grub, keep your eyes peeled for an array of activities and most importantly freebies that will be on offer over the four-day launch. Think treat carts, flowers carts, refreshments bar and plenty of live entertainment.
Free Hot dog Day - The Bavarian Newmarket!
Hot Diggity-Dog! Did someone say free hot dogs? Count us in! To celebrate the launch The Bavarian Newmarket, they’re giving away a FREE Bavarian-style hotdog to the first 500 customers. Traditional German wursts served on fresh buns and topped off with American-style sauces and gourmet garnishes, Yes please!
American Idiot the Musical
Calling all Green Day fans. If you are someone who headbangs and sings along to American Idiot in your room, while playing the air guitar, then boy are you in for a treat. Why not try it at the Civic Theatre with a whole load of other Green Day groupies in this electric-rock musical.
Friday 11 October
SOHO Wines Spring Blossom Pop-Up
SOHO Wine Co have taken over Auckland’s most popular rooftop bar, The Glass Goose, transforming the rooftop into a Spring Blossom Pop-Up Bar like no other. Celebrating all things Spring, this magical wonderland is home to cherry blossom trees, floral vines, sugar-coated sweet-treat food stalls, SOHO wine cocktails, oh and did we forget to mention donut popsicles and candyfloss galore.
Saturday 12 October
Girl at Q Theatre
Tempo Dance Festival is now in full swing, so if you haven’t managed to catch a show yet then this weekend is your chance. Award-winning Choreographer Paris Goebel brings a whole load of girl power to Q Theatre with her intimate show Girl. Girl celebrates female empowerment in all it’s glory, so get your glad rags on and bring out your inner diva.
Sunday 13 October
Dogo Afternoon
Dogos, need we say any more! Get your furry friends ready for the ultimate playdate at Source Cafe in Westgate. Bring your pup along and receive discounted coffee and cake. What a PAW-fect way to spend a Sunday in the ultimate doggie paradise.
#Avocardio Challenge
It’s avo season! Hooray! You know what that means, no more breaking the bank for your avo on toast. To celebrate this glorious season, Auckland’s Karanaga Plaza is bringing a fun-filled free family day out to Auckland’s waterfront. Take part in the #Avocardio Challenge, where Active Soul fitness trainers will host lots of activities, while Jess’ Underground Kitchen serves up delicious avocado treats. YUM!
Get excited for the Gin Jubilee taking over Auckland next month.
Image credit: Spencer Dahl