1. Prego Pop-Up
Ponsonby restaurant legends, Prego have teamed up with Cloudy Bay to showcase some of the renowned winery's past vintages in a new pop-up experience. The Cloudy Bay Sail Away Pop-Up is a purpose-built fit-out running along the brick-cobbled path beside the restaurant. Diners will enjoy a bespoke menu lovingly created by Prego's head chef Lennox Bull, showcasing ingredients and produce from Marlborough, and paired deliciously with Cloudy Bay wines. If the sunshine comes out this weekend, head to this charming wine garden for a spot of alfresco dining.
• Thursday October 19 until November 15. Prego, 226 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby
2. Dining In The Dark
For a truly unique dining experience, Rydges Auckland is offering Dining in the Dark, a concept that has delighted the brave and adventurous of the culinary world. The idea has proved popular all over the world, with over 1.3 million experiencing a three-course meal, eaten in complete darkness. The surprises don't stop there.. the gourmet menu will only be revealed as you smell and taste the dishes, created by the hotel's head chef. With limited sight, it's a journey of discovery and heightened perception of your sense of smell and taste. The three-course menu is $95, or $122 with wine matching.
• Book online at Dans le Noir at Rydges Auckland or by ph (09) 375 5920. Thursday October 19, Rydges Hotel, 59 Federal St, Cnr Kingston St, CBD, Auckland
3. Korean Film Festival
Step out of the mainstream movie mindset and check out a Korean movie this weekend. The Academy Cinemas is presenting a line-up of Korean films for your viewing pleasure. You may have spotted OKJA on Netflix and found yourself pleasantly surprised at this delightful film. One of the best things about foreign films is the refreshingly different style of story-telling coming from around the world. There are seven films on offer including OKJA (why not see it on a big screen?), and admission is free (first in, first served). Movies are in Korean, with English subtitles.
• October 19-22. Details at Academy Cinemas
4. Anika Moa's 10th Anniversary Tour
Get yourself to the Kings Arms this Saturday, as Anika Moa takes to the stage with her band, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of her album In Swings The Tide. The song list will include old favourites and some new tunes too, however diehard fans will be pleased to know that the album will be played in its entirety. Collaborator Jol Mulholland's band is the opening act for what promises to be an entertaining evening, for its music as much as for its witty banter by the singer.
• Friday October 20, 8pm. Kings Arms, 59 France St, Newton, Auckland. Tickets are $43.60 from Eventfinda
5. Waiheke Weekend
Catch the ferry across to the island paradise of Waiheke this weekend, to catch Peacock Sky Vineyard's Labour Weekend Concert. The line-up includes singer/songwriter Tommy Pickett (up-tempo and folky) and local musician Julian Wright (blues, funk and jazz). The vineyard is a lovely spot with commanding views of the surrounding vineyards. Soulful and folk music combined with cool glass of wine and a specially prepared menu for the day, and you've got yourself a groovy island experience.
• Saturday October 21, 12.30pm–4.30pm. Peacock Sky Vineyard, 152 Trig Hill Rd, Onetangi
6. Crafternoon-Tea Market
With extra playtime this weekend, head along to Crafternoon-tea Market for one-of-a-kind arts and crafts. Artists from all over Auckland present their handmade creations, so you can be sure that you'll find something truly unique - think jewellery, candles, prints, clothes and arty objects. Grab a coffee and a bite to eat while you're at it, and give a little love to our local talents.
• Saturday October 21, 10am-2pm. 400 New North Rd, Kingsland
7. Piha Labour Day Market
Grab a mate, get in the car and hit the West Coast on Monday. This annual fundraising event for the Piha Community Preschool will offer up delicious food, stalls selling all kinds of arts, crafts and secondhand wares and of course, a raffle to keep the punters on their toes. Kids will be entertained with face-painting, bouncy castles, balloon animals and even a dance tent! The market runs from 9.30am until 2pm, giving you plenty of afternoon time to hit the beach or take in a hike through the bush.
• Monday October 23, 9.30am-2pm. Barnett Hall, North Piha. Details on their Facebook page
