1. Trainspotting fans have been waiting 21 long years for the sequel of the brilliant adaptation of Irvine Welsh's breakthrough novel, and from today T2 Trainspotting hits cinemas around the country. Original director Danny Boyle picks up the story of the Scottish reprobates in middle-age where they're remarkably all still alive — though some have fared better in the past 20 years than others. Reviews would suggest it is a worthy-enough successor to the original.
— In cinemas February 23
2. The biennial Auckland Fringe Festival started this week and runs until mid-March. It features a huge lineup of comedy, cabaret, theatre, puppetry and dance performances by local and international artists, and takes place across a range of venues.
— The Auckland Fringe Festival runs until March 12. Visit Aucklandfringe.co.nz
3. Horror-film enthusiasts, grab your friends and get ready for the latest in the series of Fatso Classic films being screened at Academy Cinemas. It's been 40 years since the release of cult classic film The Wicker Man and the screening of Robin Hardy's hit movie this Sunday promises to disturb and intrigue audiences all over again.
— 44 Lorne St, Auckland, February 26, 6.30pm. Visit Academycinemas.co.nz
4. Albert Park will play host to the first Fairtrade Festival this weekend, and there will be a bunch of fairtrade goodies for you to purchase at the event. If you're keen to educate yourself about social justice and environmental sustainability, this is the ideal opportunity.
Albert Park, Princess St, Auckland. February 25, 12-4pm, 10am-4pm. Visit Facebook.com
5. Following last weekend's Land Rover NZ Polo Open out in Clevedon, this weekend the Heineken Urban Polo event comes to Auckland's inner city for the first time. It is a mini version of the sport featuring three players per team on the pitch at any one time. There'll be a couple of games during the day, followed by music from a DJ so you can party on into the night.
— Shore Rd Reserve, Parnell, Auckland, February 25, from 3pm. Tickets at urbanpolo.co.nz
6. Online vintage store Percy's Vintage & Collectibles, which specialises in vintage and pre-loved T-shirts, denim and hats, as well as new artist-made pins and patches from throughout New Zealand and the world, will have a market stall at the Myers Park Medley this Sunday. The free, family-friendly event will bring entertainment, art, fun and music to the inner-city park.
— Myers Park, Queen St, Auckland. 12-5pm. Visit Eventfinda.co.nz
7. Celebrate the LGBTIQ community at this weekend's Auckland Pride Parade. The parade starts at Three Lamps at 7.30pm, before making its way along Ponsonby Rd and coming to a stop just past Western Park. The iconic parade is part of the wider Pride Festival, and Saturday is 'Pride Day'.
— Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby, Auckland, February 25. Visit Aucklandpridefestival.org.nz
8. We love any excuse for a spot of high tea and it's always better when the surrounds are as elegant as the food. Put on a lovely frock and head along to historic Alberton House this weekend for High Tea At Historic Alberton. You can either opt for a classic high tea luncheon or a lighter Devonshire afternoon tea, accompanied by vintage bone china and antique silverware and linen and served on either the verandah overlooking the garden or in the grand ballroom.
— 100 Mt Albert Rd, Mt Albert, February 24, 25 and 26 at 12.30pm and 2.30pm. Visit Eventfinda
9. This Friday and Saturday is the Blind Foundation's Red Puppy Appeal. The Foundation relies on funds raised to breed and train guide dogs and help support the 12,000 Kiwis who are blind or have low vision. If you want to volunteer as a as a street appeal collector or make a donation, visit Redpuppy.org.nz
