
New Zealand enjoys a vast range of events, festivals and shows. From the British Lions Tour in 2005, to the New Zealand International Comedy Festival to annual spring festivals. There is always something to see, attend or do in New Zealand.Listed below are some of the current events happening around New Zealand.
Golden Guitar Awards in Gore New Zealand Golden Guitar Awards – May 2008
Every year for the past 34 years, Gore has hosted the New Zealand Gold Guitar Awards. This event has attracted artists from around the world and continues to grow in stature and popularity. Audience levels reach over 5,000 and the entries in all sections and events total 700 competitors. Visitors to Gore leave with fond memories of the ‘Southern Hospitality’ and along with the locals.
SBS Marathon event in Christchurch, New Zealand SBS Marathon – 1 June 2008
Since 1974, the fast, flat streets of Christchurch have been home to one of the world’s fastest marathon courses. The SBS Marathon – Christchurch was inspired by the 1974 Christchurch Commonwealth Games marathon, and today runners and walkers from all over the world can experience that historic route. Every year on Queen’s Birthday Sunday more than 4,000 entrants stop the South Island’s largest city in its tracks. The scenic and super-fast tour of the Avon River and Hagley Park has official road closures, and competitors are supported by more than 300 volunteers and thousands of Christchurch city residents cheering from their front gates.
Punakaiki Light festival, Westport, New Zealand Punakaiki Light festival – 21 June 2008
Celebration of light and the shortest day of the year with a sunset on the beach, then to Te Nikau Retreat for an evenings entertainment with bands, a play, poetry, a bonfire, glowworms, art works, food and drink stalls and much more. Only NZ$10 per person and NZ$20 per family. Come along for a great nights entertainment.
The WildCoaster event on the West Coast of New Zealand The WildCoaster – October 2008
109-kilometre cycle ride from Greymouth to Westport looking out at the imposing Tasman Sea. You can do it solo or team up with a mate and changeover at Punakaiki. Rudyard Kipling described the area as ‘the last, loneliest, loveliest, equisite apart’. You can experience one of the most dramatic seascapes you’ll find anywhere as you cycle along the ‘Coast Road’. West of the Alps from Greymouth to Westport, voted one of the top 10 tourist drives in the whole world by both Lonely Planet and Rough Guides.
Waikato Home and Garden Show Waikato Home and Garden Show – 2 – 5 October 2008
The 2008 Waikato Home and Garden Show will showcase the largest and very latest range of products, services and ideas for building, decorating, restoring, furnishing and gardening. Literally thousands of products and ideas from throughout New Zealand and overseas will be on display. Meet the experts, attend free home design seminars, secure special Home Show prices, WIN thousands of dollars of prizes, and get free expert advice from hundreds of knowledgeable exhibitors.
Environmental Eco-Cruises in New Zealand Environmental Eco-Cruises – May & October 2008
Discover the Bay of Islands’ unique environment with an environment eco-cruise on board the tall ship R.Tucker Thompson. If you are interested in an authentic guided experience of the Bay of Islands land and marine environment, then these expeditions are not to be missed. Only 10 berths available on each voyage so bookings essential.
Historic Cruises in New Zealand Historic Cruises – May, September & October 2008
Discover Northland’s history on board a the tall ship R.Tucker Thompson. In partnership with the New Zealand Historic Places Trust, a unique voyage on R.Tucker Thompson has been charted for you to rediscover those encounters between people, land and sea. Only 10 berths are available on each voyage so bookings essential.
Croesus Crossing West Coast New Zealand Croesus Crossing – January 2009
26-kilometre trailrun on the Croesus Track from Barrytown to Blackball, West Coast, New Zealand. Numbers are limited to 100 runners only. This is a demanding adventure run and it is recommended that competitors be capable of completing a half marathon in under 2.15 hours or be of comparable fitness. Minimum age 18.