February
Devonport Food & Wine Festival: Held in Windsor Reserve in late February, this festival offers nonstop entertainment, samples from 20 wineries, and in abundance. Jazz, classical music, and opera all play a part. Call 09/446-0688 or 09/445-3011 for details.

Hero Parade & Party: This is the country's largest gay and lesbian event, which attracts over 200,000 spectators. An all-night party follows the parade. Held in mid- to late February. Call 09/307-1057 for information.

March/April
Round the Bays Run: This fun event in late March attracts runners from around the South Pacific, who participate in the 8km (about 5-mile run around the central bays. It ends with a barbecue in one of the city's parks. Call 09/525-2166 for details.

Royal Easter Show:
Held at the Epsom Showgrounds, this show focuses on excellence in agriculture and animal husbandry with fresh produce stalls, commercial, industrial, and educational displays, and the biggest carnival in New Zealand. There are more than 1,000 competitors, and more than 20,000 people in attendance. Call 09/638-9969 for details.

October
People in the Parks: Summer Program run annually by the Auckland City Council with various events. Schedule available from the council at 09/379-2021. Or at www.akcity.govt.nz/whatson/index.asp

Annual Yacht Race Auckland to Russell in the Bay of Islands, Labor Day.

November
Ellerslie Flower Show: Held at the Auckland Regional Botanic Garden in November, this is New Zealand's premier garden and outdoor living event. Call 09/309-7875.

December
Coca Cola Christmas in the Park: Family concert in Auckland Domain.

First to the Sun: Auckland to Gisborne bicycle race.