During a year in which we’ve spent way too much time becoming familiar with our couch and four walls, we’re celebrating some of the best activities that are happening in our great nation this weekend – get out there and enjoy!
HIT THE CINEMAS
Baby, Done
Right now it feels like what we all need is a bit of good old escapism, with a feel good movie that also brings the LOLs.
Well, enter Baby, Done – the movie we’ve been waiting for to bring some cheer to 2020.
Starring Rose Matafeo and Matthew Lewis (yes, Neville Longbottom himself) it follows tree surgeon Zoe (Rose) who is newly pregnant and freaking out, rushing through her to-do list of dreams before becoming a mother. Meanwhile her long-term boyfriend is fully embracing the idea of parenthood. Directed by Curtis Vowell, it is also executive produced by Taika Waititi, so you’re guaranteed some laughs!
PRETEND IT’S 2019 AGAIN
Shapeshifter
We’re one of the only countries (*frantically touches wood*) that right now can actually still go out and get amongst a crowd.
So why not go make the most of it! Shapeshifter performed two sold out shows in Auckland and Christchurch last weekend (and, one of their tracks was blaring as PM Jacinda Ardern took the stage to speak on her victorious election night!). This weekend they’re in Hawke’s Bay playing two shows at Black Barn Amphitheatre – there are still tickets available for Friday, so get in quick!
Otherwise, Soaked Oats are playing at Auckland’s Tuning Fork on Friday at Leigh’s Sawmill on Sunday. You’ll find Reb Fountain in Raglan on Friday, Tauranga on Saturday and Gisborne on Sunday. And, Amanda Palmer is performing the first international shows in NZ since Covid, when she takes the stage in Wellington on Friday and Saturday.
GO TO THE THEATRE
Mary Poppins: The Broadway Musical
My mum can vividly remember going along to the Civic Theatre as a child with her grandmother, and no matter how many decades have now passed, whenever we go along to the Civic together, we both feel like children, looking around in awe. It’s a spectacular theatre – my favourite feature is the ceiling that accurately depicts the night’s sky (if you could actually see it through the city haze of lights!).
I’ll take any opportunity to visit the theatre, and right now, any opportunity to be around people again! Luckily, there’s also a darn good reason to visit as Mary Poppins: The Broadway musical is currently showing! Tickets start at $27.50 and there are sessions available this weekend, from afternoon matinees, to 7.30pm features.
TAKE THE FAMILY
MOTAT Night Lights
If you’re in Auckland, you’ve likely visited MOTAT at some point – but now’s your chance to see it in a whole new light. There’s something rather special that happens when you get to visit a venue like this one after dark – like visiting the zoo, or the museum, it takes on a new lease of life.
This weekend you can head along and stay out late for Night Lights – where MOTAT is set aglow with stunning art installations designed by New Zealand and global artists.
Kids and adults will have a fab night out, with live music, aerial performances, food trucks and more.
Tickets are $10 for adults (over 16), $5 for children (5 to 16), $5 for Gold Card holders or students (with ID) and under 5s are free (and do not need a ticket for entry).
