It’s never too late to plan your weekend, our go-to guide rounds up the best of Auckland’s offerings. The winter solstice has just passed, the days are at their shortest and Matariki celebrations are gearing up as the Māori New Year approaches. Treat yourself to something special from an inner-city winter market, show off your best dance moves at a whakamana (movement for joy) class, or support local talent by visiting a central city theatre where plenty of new openings have arrived.
Take your pick as we outline the top things to do around Tāmaki Makaurau this weekend. 1) Red, White & Brass - Auckland CBD Aotearoa’s little-movie-that-could from last year, Red, White and Brass , opened its stage adaptation this week at ASB Waterfront Theatre and it’s the most vibrant and heartwarming piece of theatre you’ll see this year. The play has been adapted by Leki Jackson-Bourke and is directed by Anapela Polata’ivao, with the film’s charismatic star John-Paul “JP” Foliaki reprising his role as Maka, the Tongan rugby superfan who will do almost anything to get a seat at the 2011 Tonga versus France Rugby World Cup game in Wellington, including creating a Tongan marching band with a passionate group of young Tongans, who have no clue how to play brass instruments.
It’s based on a true story and is full of heart, cultural pride and māfana that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear. If you need a pick-me-up or just a really fun night at the theatre then you must.
