Waitangi Day has come around quickly this year; tomorrow marks the 179th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. If you haven’t planned anything for the day, here are a few of the events on around Auckland. There is plenty to eat and drink, and a vast array of activities to please the whole family.
At the Orakei Domain, there is an event that will feature live music, food stalls, and a chance to learn more about the history of the Treaty. Hosted by the Auckland Council, the day will begin with a pōwhiri at 10 am. Guests are also encouraged to bring their swimming costumes to enjoy the sea. It is unlikely to rain, so bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a beautiful summers day.
Disney’s Aladdin, The Musical continues tomorrow night. The dazzling performance has mind-blowing special effects, lavish costumes and a brilliant cast. The songs you know and love from the movie feature in the musical, like, ‘A Whole New World,’ ‘Friend Like Me,’ and ‘Arabian Nights.’ Having run for a few nights already, Aladdin has gained lots of popularity and positive feedback. The New Zealand Herald said, “Aladdin…oozing with class and style.” Head on down to the Civic in central Auckland for a night out at the theatre; it is sure to impress.
Local iwi Te Kawerau a Maki are presenting a colourful and dramatic representation of some of the stories relating to the islands in the Waitematā Harbour using the Vector Lights on Auckland’s Harbour Bridge. There will be plenty of places around to view the bridge, and this will provide a beautiful and affordable way to enjoy the festivities from almost anywhere. Grab some fish and chips and set up for the spectacular light show.
The Blues and BNZ have teamed up to throw the whole family a party. The Blues Block Party will be a great way to take the entire family out and keep them entertained. There will be food trucks, activities, music, and even a chance to meet some of the Blues players. Admission is free, and the Alexandra Park Raceway opens its gates at 11 am.
Little Creatures Brewery is opening its doors tomorrow with an event kicking off at 11 am. In addition to a brilliant range of beers to choose from, there will be good food and good music. This will be the perfect way to indulge and make the most of Waitangi Day.
If you haven’t eaten enough during the day, the Auckland Night Markets will be a great way to fill the void. There will be a massive range of food to choose from. Snack your way across the world from brats to dumplings. There is no doubt that you will sleep well with a full belly after this event.
If you are looking to keep fit and active, this list hasn’t helped a whole lot. However, for the fitness enthusiasts, there is a sunrise yoga session at Queen’s Wharf from 7am-8: 15 am. What could be a more relaxing way to start the day other than finding your inner peace and stretching out your tired muscles as the sun peaks over the horizon. The class will be free and caters to everyone—not just yoga experts.
For the more colourful, there is a Pink Gin Pop-Up Party held at La Zeppa Kitchen and Bar in Freemans Bay. Pink Gin presents itself as a floral, summer favourite. This event is sure to make its way straight to your Instagram feed—pretty pink gin glasses and a rooftop bar? Yes, please. There will be music, lawn games, and a colossal cherry blossom tree to marvel at while you sip on your drinks and hang out with your friends.
If you haven’t found anything that tickles your fancy on this list, perhaps the final suggestion will provide consolation. Cirque Grande arrives on its first tour in New Zealand for a fresh and exciting new look at circus performance. Award-winning performances from acrobats, artists, magicians and clowns will have you on the edge of your seat holding your breath, or rolling on the floor and laughing. With something for everyone to marvel at, the Cirque Grande will be a great way to entertain the whole family.
A lot is happening around the city tomorrow. Waking up and hitting sunrise yoga might be an excellent way to start the day off correctly—it’ll help with all the eating and drinking scheduled for the rest of the day. If you had left your planning until the last minute, we have you covered. Have fun and drive safely.
