Open Circle on Tour - Remuera
REMUERA — We're setting up on your doorstep.
This September, the Open Circle Tour is rolling into Shore Road Reserve for a free community food truck night — and we're inviting the whole community along.
Local food trucks, open green space, and a Friday evening with your people. No entry fee. No catch. Just great food and good vibes right on your doorstep.
📍Shore Road Reserve, Remuera
📅 Friday 11 September 2026 | 5pm – 8pm
Free entry
Remuera is Stop 07 on the Open Circle Tour — a series of 17 free food truck nights running across Auckland from August to November. (Supported by Orakei Local Board)
Ellerslie Pirate Festival and Fairy Party 2026
Kids Market at the Ellerslie Pirate Festival & Fairy Party 2026
Main Event by the Ellerslie Business association.
A magical marketplace for little adventurers and their grown-ups!
Market Square Group is thrilled to be bringing the Kids Market to the Ellerslie Pirate Festival & Fairy Party 2026—a vibrant, family-focused marketplace filled with creativity, imagination and quality shopping.
Set amongst the magic of one of Auckland's most loved family festivals, the Kids Market will be home to a carefully curated collection of talented New Zealand makers, artists and small businesses. Discover beautifully handcrafted treasures, unique gifts, toys, clothing, accessories, books, crafts, keepsakes and treats designed to delight young fairies, brave pirates and adventurous children of all ages.
While little ones explore a world of magical finds, parents won't miss out either. Alongside the children's offerings, you'll discover a fantastic range of artisan products, homewares, gifts, skincare, food and lifestyle products—making it the perfect shopping destination for the whole family.
Throughout the day, visitors can immerse themselves in the festival atmosphere with enchanting fairy characters, swashbuckling pirates, live entertainment, face painting, interactive activities, delicious food from local businesses and vendors, rides and plenty of magical moments around every corner. Whether you're dressed in wings, sporting a pirate hat or simply coming along to soak up the fun, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
What you'll find at the Kids Market
* Quality NZ-made products from talented local makers across Auckland and beyond.
* Unique gifts, toys, clothing, accessories and treasures for children.
* Artisan goods and boutique shopping for parents.
* Friendly makers passionate about creating beautiful, high-quality products.
* A welcoming, community-focused atmosphere celebrating creativity and supporting local businesses.
Come dressed as your favourite fairy, pirate or magical character and spend the day discovering incredible local talent while making unforgettable family memories.
**Applications are now open for vendors who create exceptional products for children and families. If you offer beautiful NZ-made goods and would love to be part of this magical event, we'd love to hear from you! - head to www.marketsquaregroup.co.nz (Vendor Area to register)
More details of the full day event here - www.ellersliefairyfestival.co.nz
Let's Talk Conflict
Navigating separation or divorce can be overwhelming, but you don't have to figure it out alone. St Heliers Library is hosting an open and supportive community discussion led by divorce coach Philippa Dennis.
This session offers a safe space to gain practical tools, perspective, and guidance on managing the complex emotional and practical aspects of separation.
How to Register: This event is completely free to attend, but space is limited and bookings are essential.
Phone: 09 377 0209
Mid-Autumn Festival at Ōrākei
中秋節有超過 3,000年嘅歷史，起源於古人賞月慶祝豐收。而大家最熟悉嘅中秋節傳說，一定係嫦娥嘅故事。
中秋節係中式傳統節日入面，僅次於農曆新年嘅第二大重要日子。
現邀請各位小朋友同我哋一齊迎接即將到來嘅中秋節，親手製作屬於自己嘅燈籠，同品嚐傳統月餅，感受中秋節嘅氣氛！
日期： 9月19日（星期六）
時間： 上午10:00至11:30
地點： Orakei Community Centre (Community Room), 156 Kepa Road, Orakei
本活動適合三歲或以上小朋友，需要家長陪同。
費用： 每位小朋友 NZD $25
立即報名：
DM我哋，或者喺我哋Bio入面搵到報名表格連結！
期待同大家一齊慶祝一個充滿歡樂嘅中秋節！
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The Mid-Autumn Festival started over 3,000 years ago from celebrating harvest and the moon, but popular folklore attributes its most famous traditions to legends like the moon goddess Chang'e.
The Mid-Autumn Festival is the second most important tradition in Chinese tradition.
Let your children enjoy the upcoming festival by making their own lantern and taste moon cake to celebrate.
Date: Saturday, 19th September
Time: 10am to 11:30am
Venue: Orakei Community Centre (Community Room), 156 Kepa Road, Orakei
This event is for children 3 years and above, which requires parent supervision.
Fee: NZD $25 per child
Register Now:
DM us or find the link to the Registration Form in our bio!
Mission Bay Spring Carnival
MISSION BAY SPRING CARNIVAL + GIVEAWAY!
We’re welcoming spring with an afternoon of family fun at the inaugural Mission Bay Spring Carnival.
Join us on Saturday 19 September, 12PM–4PM at Selwyn Reserve for a fun-filled afternoon!
Free Face Painting & Balloon Twisting | 12PM–4PM
Roaming Entertainers | 12PM–3PM
Giant Bubble Displays | 1PM & 2PM
Circus Performances | 12:30PM & 2:30PM
Family Rides* including a kids’ train, teacups & jeep driving | 12PM–4PM
ENTRY IS FREE!
*Rides are ticketed.
GIVEAWAY: WIN A FREE TICKET TO THE FAMILY RIDES!
We’re giving away 1 ride ticket to 5 lucky winners!
To enter:
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Winner will be picked on 18 September.
This event is brought to you by the Mission Bay Business Association, with funding from the Ōrākei Local Board and sponsorship from Mission Bay, The Promenade.
Come along and celebrate spring in the beachside sunshine!
Sensory Art Pilot Programme - Japanese
Thanks to the generous funding and support from the Ōrākei Local Board and Ōrākei Arts, I am incredibly excited to partner with Age Concern Auckland Ethnic Communities Services. Together, we are bringing this initiative directly to local Chinese and Japanese senior groups.
Language barriers and health changes can make it very difficult for elderly to join local activities, often leading to deep isolation. This project changes that by taking art straight to them, inside the comfortable, familiar spaces where they already meet. Because art is hands-on and visual, it easily bypasses language barriers. I will collaborating closely with trusted group leaders to tailor every session to the cultural and physical needs of the seniors, ensuring they are active co-creators of a vibrant community memory. Even better, our Japanese session will be a beautiful intergenerational event where young and old can create side by side.
Science shows us just how powerful this work is: visual arts significantly improve mood and quality of life for seniors. For those living with dementia, art can stimulate untouched neural pathways, opening up new ways to connect. By offering a non-verbal channel for communication and sensory regulation, this program directly supports Auckland Council's vision for an age-friendly city.
This project is also close to my heart, as my late mother-in-law would have been deeply proud of it.
Thriving in This Land - The Cost of Living
Join us for part 2 of this 3-part workshop, created by Common Grace Aotearoa.
Details HERE
Register by emailing Pamela: pamela@stlukes.org.nz or ring 09-520-0740
Volunteer Expo Auckland East
Discover How You Can Make a Difference.
Looking for a meaningful way to give back, meet new people, learn new skills, or even boost your career prospects? The Volunteer Expo is the perfect place to start.
Find out more here
FREE - Survivalism to Thrivalism - Ōrākei
Join Dane Tumahai in this guided walk at Okahu Bay and nearby landmarks. Learn about the cultural site of significance in Tamaki Makaurau. Details and Registration HERE
Disability Journey Into Adulthood (New Zealand)
An informative Zoom conversation about leaving school
We formed this collaboration team in 2016 and have been running workshops since then but we have changed it up this year to incorporate many more subjects, we would like anyone that is interested either families, providers, schools or anyone who would like to understand the disability supports to attend. Collaboration team are from Real World Living, Flying Kites and Complex Care Group
Zoom update: robyn@realworldliving.co.nz
Disability Journey Into Adulthood (New Zealand)
An informative Zoom conversation about leaving school
We formed this collaboration team in 2016 and have been running workshops since then but we have changed it up this year to incorporate many more subjects, we would like anyone that is interested either families, providers, schools or anyone who would like to understand the disability supports to attend. Collaboration team are from Real World Living, Flying Kites and Complex Care Group
Zoom update: robyn@realworldliving.co.nz
Ranger guided walk- Tahuna Torea nature reserve
Take a free guided tour with the community parks team through the ecologically significant Tahuna Torea Nature Reserve in Glen Innes.
Learn about the unique native flora and fauna of the coastal and forest habitats within this reserve, as well as the environmental impacts that people have had over time.
An average level of fitness and mobility required.
Bookings essential (spaces limited)
Tickets can be booked here
Sensory Art Pilot Programme - Chinese
Thanks to the generous funding and support from the Ōrākei Local Board and Ōrākei Arts, I am incredibly excited to partner with Age Concern Auckland Ethnic Communities Services. Together, we are bringing this initiative directly to local Chinese and Japanese senior groups.
Language barriers and health changes can make it very difficult for elderly to join local activities, often leading to deep isolation. This project changes that by taking art straight to them, inside the comfortable, familiar spaces where they already meet. Because art is hands-on and visual, it easily bypasses language barriers. I will collaborating closely with trusted group leaders to tailor every session to the cultural and physical needs of the seniors, ensuring they are active co-creators of a vibrant community memory. Even better, our Japanese session will be a beautiful intergenerational event where young and old can create side by side.
Science shows us just how powerful this work is: visual arts significantly improve mood and quality of life for seniors. For those living with dementia, art can stimulate untouched neural pathways, opening up new ways to connect. By offering a non-verbal channel for communication and sensory regulation, this program directly supports Auckland Council's vision for an age-friendly city.
This project is also close to my heart, as my late mother-in-law would have been deeply proud of it.
Thriving in This Land - The Climate
Join us for part 3 of this 3-part workshop, created by Common Grace Aotearoa.
Details HERE
Register by emailing Pamela: pamela@stlukes.org.nz or ring 09-520-0740
Thriving in This Land - The Treaty
Join us for part 1 of this 3-part workshop, created by Common Grace Aotearoa.
Details HERE
Register by emailing Pamela: pamela@stlukes.org.nz or ring 09-520-0740
Transition Expo 2026
The transition from school into adulthood is a major life change for disabled young people, as well as their families and support networks.
Whether you’re planning for the years ahead or searching for opportunities now, Transition Expo is here to help your whānau discover what's possible and how to make it happen.
At this free event, you can connect with over 140 stalls and explore:
• Disability supports - transition providers, individualised funding hosts, government services
• Education - universities, training and other learning opportunities
• Career pathways - employer conversations, small businesses, social enterprises
• Recreation, therapy and community - travel, libraries, music, circus, arts, things to try
• Housing and transport - residential and community living options
• Professional services - financial, legal, advocacy
• And much more!
This is your chance to meet several providers in person and explore what life can look like after finishing school.
There’s a café onsite if you’d like to sit down for a drink or snack. Our Chill Zone (a dedicated quiet space with sensory-friendly activities and toys) will also be available if you need a breather during the day.
Young people aged 12+, their parents, caregivers and whānau are all welcome, as well as families with younger children who want to start planning early for the future.
This event is also a valuable opportunity for sector professionals, teachers, SENCOs, and anyone involved in supporting students through the transition into adulthood.
Event details:
Date: Wednesday 9 September 2026
Time: 9:00am to 2:00pm
Location: Auckland Netball Centre – 7 Allison Ferguson Drive, St Johns, Auckland
Cost: Free
The venue is wheelchair-accessible and has free parking. NZ Sign Language interpreters and Mandarin Chinese translators will be available - visit the Disability Connect stall for assistance.
For any queries, email us at admin@disabilityconnect.org.nz or call 09 636 0351.
Disability Connect would like to give a massive thank you to our sponsors - the Ministry of Social Development, Mercury and Clipboard - for helping us make this possible.
RSVP to this event and follow our Facebook page to keep up to date with any announcements or changes.
Fill-a-Bag For Mercy
Mercy Hospice Shop NZ is bringing back their popular "Fill-a-Bag" sale at the Ellerslie shop downstairs space!
This community event is a wonderful way to shop sustainably, refresh your wardrobe, and directly support the vital palliative care and community services Mercy Hospice provides across Auckland.
All proceeds go toward funding hospice care services in our local area. Bring your family, invite your friends, and enjoy a fun morning of sustainable thrifting for a great cause!
Cost: $10 to fill a bag (additional bags $6 each; bags are provided on-site)
Monthly Chinese Gathering in Meadowbank 耆樂月會
想了解最新的大選變化嗎？不確定自己的選民登記資料是否需要更新？
或者想親身體驗一下現場投票的流程？
您想關心社區大小事，同時與在地朋友一起溫馨歡唱、放鬆心情嗎？
別擔心！奧克蘭長者關愛會 特別在 Meadowbank 舉辦中區耆樂月會，現場有會 華語 與粵語 的義工陪伴長者，還特別邀請 Electoral Commission NZ團隊帶您了解大選最新資訊、協助選民登記，還有歡唱時光，讓大家輕鬆學習、開心同樂！
本月主題內容：
【2026大選新知與模擬投票】：概覽大選新變化，現場體驗模擬投票，並提供選民登記或資料更新協助，解答您的各項疑慮。
【溫馨歡唱時光】：齊聲高歌，放鬆心情，歡度美好時光！
活動資訊（重要！請確認時間地點）：
【日期】：2026年9月4日（週五）
【時間】：上午 10:00 – 中午 12:00
【地點】：Meadowbank Community Centre
【地址】：29 Saint Johns Road, St Johns
【主要交流語言】：華語 + 粵語 (Mandarin & Cantonese)
立即報名/洽詢
席位有限，請立即報名參加！為了方便提早為您預留座位，請盡速聯繫我們報名喔！
報名專線/簡訊：021-593-031 Oscar（小余）
華＆粵語熱線：09-820-0271
Email：ethnicservices@ageconak.org.nz
(備註：亦可直接掃描海報下方 LINE 或微信 QR Code 快速報名！)
這週五上午，讓我們一起關心社區、開心歡唱！我們 @Meadowbank 見！
Meet the Tāmaki Candidate - Ōrākei
SAVE THE DATE | MEET THE TĀMAKI CANDIDATES
Your electorate. Your questions. Their answers.
Ahead of the General Election, the Mission Bay–Kohimarama Residents Association and the Ōrākei Community Association are bringing the Tāmaki candidates together for one important community conversation.
Hear directly where they stand, what they’re promising and how they respond to the issues that matter most to our neighbourhoods.
📅Wednesday 2 September | 7.00 pm
📍Selwyn College Theatre
This is a free, neutral community event, with all confirmed candidates given an equal opportunity to speak and answer your questions.
Save the date. Turn up. Have your say!
Community Meeting with Brooke van Velden MP & Youthline CEO
Join local MP Brooke van Velden for a special community meeting featuring guest speaker Shae Ronald ONZM, CEO of Youthline.
Together, they will discuss Shae’s role leading Youthline and the vital work the organisation does to support young people’s mental health across New Zealand.
Questions: Have a question for the speakers? Please pre-submit your questions to mptamaki@parliament.govt.nz.
Lightfields: Maungarei
Lightfields: Maungarei. A magical theatre of light at the Stonefields Wetlands Reserve
A unique winter experience as the Maungarei Springs Wetlands in Stonefields is transformed into a magical theatre of light
Prepare to be amazed, enthralled, dazzled, as the Maungarei Springs Wetlands is transformed into a magical theatre of light. Bring the whole family to the Stonefields wetlands reserve on any evening Friday–Sunday 21–23 August and experience a breathtaking light installation and cinematic soundscape.
The wetlands in Stonefields is a uniquely stunning urban location for this large-scale lighting event, with a boardwalk leading you over shimmering water, surrounded by a majestic cliff face, and overlooked by Maungarei (Mt Wellington) and its rich history.
Lightfields is a free, inclusive and accessible* event. It’s open from 5:30pm to 10:00pm each evening from Friday to Sunday, 21–23 August.
Free admission but tickets are essential. Allow 30–45 minutes for this immersive experience.
What you need to know before you visit
Lightfields: Maungarei
Lightfields: Maungarei. A magical theatre of light at the Stonefields Wetlands Reserve
A unique winter experience as the Maungarei Springs Wetlands in Stonefields is transformed into a magical theatre of light
Prepare to be amazed, enthralled, dazzled, as the Maungarei Springs Wetlands is transformed into a magical theatre of light. Bring the whole family to the Stonefields wetlands reserve on any evening Friday–Sunday 21–23 August and experience a breathtaking light installation and cinematic soundscape.
The wetlands in Stonefields is a uniquely stunning urban location for this large-scale lighting event, with a boardwalk leading you over shimmering water, surrounded by a majestic cliff face, and overlooked by Maungarei (Mt Wellington) and its rich history.
Lightfields is a free, inclusive and accessible* event. It’s open from 5:30pm to 10:00pm each evening from Friday to Sunday, 21–23 August.
Free admission but tickets are essential. Allow 30–45 minutes for this immersive experience.
What you need to know before you visit
Rongoā Māori Walk-in Community Clinic
Nau mai, haere mai! Join us for a community walk-in clinic dedicated to traditional Rongoā Māori healing, presented in association with Nga Tohunga o Nga Hau e Wha. All are welcome to attend.
Cost: Koha (donations welcome)
Lightfields: Maungarei
Lightfields: Maungarei. A magical theatre of light at the Stonefields Wetlands Reserve
A unique winter experience as the Maungarei Springs Wetlands in Stonefields is transformed into a magical theatre of light
Prepare to be amazed, enthralled, dazzled, as the Maungarei Springs Wetlands is transformed into a magical theatre of light. Bring the whole family to the Stonefields wetlands reserve on any evening Friday–Sunday 21–23 August and experience a breathtaking light installation and cinematic soundscape.
The wetlands in Stonefields is a uniquely stunning urban location for this large-scale lighting event, with a boardwalk leading you over shimmering water, surrounded by a majestic cliff face, and overlooked by Maungarei (Mt Wellington) and its rich history.
Lightfields is a free, inclusive and accessible* event. It’s open from 5:30pm to 10:00pm each evening from Friday to Sunday, 21–23 August.
Free admission but tickets are essential. Allow 30–45 minutes for this immersive experience.
What you need to know before you visit
2026 Youth Peace Symposium
Peace and Sustainability | Rangimārie me te Toitūtanga
FRIDAY 21 August | 8.30 AM - 2.30 PM
About
This is a special opportunity for secondary school students to come together in peace and harmony to share their Youth Peace Week projects, network and workshop, and be inspired by outstanding young leaders making a difference in this world!
Purpose
This year, our theme, Peace and Sustainability; Rangimārie me te Toitūtanga emphasises the importance of how peace and sustainability are interlinked, and can be implemented to create a better future for all people by promoting social well-being, community connectedness, and environmental protection. It will be a day for participants to share the peace project activities they conducted in their kura and/or local community during Youth Peace Week (3rd – 9th August). It is also an opportunity to raise awareness on te mana o te kotahitanga, the power of group unity and how they can all proactively contribute towards peacebuilding for a promising future. It will feature inspiring guest speakers and performances as well as topical workshops with symposium participants from secondary schools throughout Tamaki Makaurau and beyond.
Disability Journey Into Adulthood (New Zealand)
An informative Zoom conversation about leaving school
We formed this collaboration team in 2016 and have been running workshops since then but we have changed it up this year to incorporate many more subjects, we would like anyone that is interested either families, providers, schools or anyone who would like to understand the disability supports to attend. Collaboration team are from Real World Living, Flying Kites and Complex Care Group
Zoom update: robyn@realworldliving.co.nz
Kohimarama Forest Restoration
Would you like to join our native plant restoration team? Hosted by the Eastern Bays Songbird Project, this is a fantastic opportunity to meet friendly locals who value our precious green spaces. You’ll learn how to identify and remove invasive weeds to help increase native biodiversity and restore the forest environment.
Please wear gumboots or sturdy shoes, long-sleeved clothing, and bring gardening gloves, a drink, and snacks.
All other tools and training will be provided on the day!
Tree Planting - Waiatarua Reserve
Join us for the annual planting day. These plants encourage bird life.
Bring a spade, wear gumboots, and meet at the Abbotts Way car park.
Organised by the Waiataua Protection Society, funded by Ōrākei Local Board
Details HERE
Author Talk with Siobhan Harvey
We are pleased to share an upcoming community event for the local book lovers and aspiring writers in our network. St Heliers Library is hosting an exclusive afternoon session featuring local author Siobhan Harvey as she discusses her newly released, internationally recognized, and award-winning memoir, What We Remember, What We Forget. During this insightful presentation, Siobhan will dive deep into the development of her book, exploring its powerful connection to memory, and sharing what it takes both personally and creatively to bring a true story to life. This is a free community event, but because spaces are limited at the library, bookings are absolutely essential to secure a seat: 09 377 0209 or sthelierslibrary@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Disability Journey Into Adulthood (New Zealand)
An informative Zoom conversation about leaving school
We formed this collaboration team in 2016 and have been running workshops since then but we have changed it up this year to incorporate many more subjects, we would like anyone that is interested either families, providers, schools or anyone who would like to understand the disability supports to attend. Collaboration team are from Real World Living, Flying Kites and Complex Care Group
Zoom update: robyn@realworldliving.co.nz
The Power of Song in aid of Raukatauri Music Trust
Join us for The Power of Song and feel the magic of music boosting Raukatauri Music Trust!
The Power of Song in aid of Raukatauri Music Trust
Join us in person for an uplifting evening celebrating the magic of music! "The Power of Song" shines a spotlight on incredible voices coming together to support the Raukatauri Music Trust. Expect heartfelt performances, good vibes, and a whole lot of soul. It's the perfect chance to enjoy great tunes while making a difference. Don’t miss out on this special event!
Keeping Central Auckland moving - Remuera Drop In Session
Have questions about the proposed changes for Mount Eden Road, Remuera Road and Sandringham Road?
Drop in to meet the Auckland Transport project team, view the proposed plans and ask any questions you may have. This is an informal drop-in session – there will be no presentation, so you’re welcome to arrive at any time during the event.
Find out more and have your say before feedback closes on 23 August 2026:
The Bays Kids Market
THE BAYS KIDS MARKET
A Market By Kids, For Everyone!
Come along and support the next generation of young entrepreneurs at our very first Bays Kids Market.
40+ local children aged 7–12 will be creating, pricing, marketing and selling their own handmade, second-hand and NZ-sourced products while gaining valuable real-world skills in confidence, communication, creativity and financial literacy.
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫 $𝟓𝟎𝟎 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐑𝐄𝐄 𝐫𝐚𝐟𝐟𝐥𝐞 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐠𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 to enter just for turning up including :
$100 4 Square family food voucher
$100 Culley’s Hot Sauce vouche
$100 Lucy G Art voucher
Kelly Tarlton’s Family Pass,
Kids Life Pharmacy Hamper
Calimero Pizza Vouchers.
Expect a fantastic range of stalls including:
Handmade crafts & pottery
Art & cards
Cakes, hand made fudge & pizza dough balls
Plants & succulents
Recycled creations
Jewellery & bracelets
Young inventors and creators
Plus fun activities for the whole family:
Face Painting
Craft Table
Raffles
Saturday 8th August
10am – 12 noon
St Heliers Community Centre
This is more than just a market day. It's an opportunity for local children to build confidence, learn practical life skills, connect with their community and experience the excitement of running their own stall.
Bring the family, support local kids, discover unique products and help encourage the next generation of creative thinkers and entrepreneurs.
Thanks to our amazing sponsors including Orakei Local Board, Harvey Furnishings, Lucy G Design, Dawsons Lawyers, 4 Square, Thinking 2morrow, The Balance Project, Square One, Life Pharmacy, Calimero and Culleys.
Little Minds, Big Ideas
FREE ENTRY
Remuera Library centenary
Join us and the Ōrākei Local Board in celebrating a remarkable milestone -100 years of the Remuera Library!
For a century, Remuera Library has been a cherished hub of learning, heritage, and connection in our community. Come along with family, friends, and neighbours for a celebratory morning featuring official speeches, children's entertainment, live music, delicious nibbles, and more.
No RSVP needed- simply drop by and help us celebrate 100 years of stories and community spirit!
FREE - Survivalism to Thrivalism - Ōrākei
Join Dane Tumahai in this guided walk at Okahu Bay and nearby landmarks. Learn about the cultural site of significance in Tamaki Makaurau. Details and Registration HERE
Pourewa Valley Planting
A wonderful community planting day is happening in our local area, and the organizers are looking for volunteers to help out!
Our friends at Eastern Bays Songbird Project are hosting a hands-on session to plant beautiful native species along Pourewa Creek and the bush track. This is a highly rewarding opportunity to help stabilize stream edges and replace trees where pest species have recently been removed.
It is going to be hands-on, a bit muddy, and a fantastic way to give back to our local ecosystem.
When: Saturday 18 July 2026 | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Where: John Rymer Place entrance to Te Ara Ki Uta Ki Tai (the path of land to sea), Kohimarama
What to bring: Sturdy, fully covered boots or shoes you don’t mind getting wet or dirty, and your awesome energy!
What is provided: All tools, plants, gloves, and guidance.
Weather note: The planting will go ahead rain or shine, but the organizers will postpone if strong winds make conditions unsafe.
How to Join: Registrations are essential so the organizers can prepare the right amount of gear. Please RSVP directly to them using their sign-up form: 👉 Register here
The Ellerslie Brick Show
There is a fantastic family-friendly weekend activity popping up right in our local neighborhood this week. The annual Ellerslie Brick Show is coming to the village for a full day of incredible LEGO displays. Hosted in association with the Auckland LEGO© User Group, this event brings together some of the most impressive, intricate brick creations to explore right in the heart of the community. It makes for the perfect weekend outing to bring along the kids, or the big kids at heart, to marvel at what can be built entirely brick by brick. Entry fees ($5) are payable at the door on the day, with special family passes available and free entry for the youngest builders under three years old.
Orakei Portait Archive
Come part of our local history! Join us for the Meadowbank Mall edition of this community portrait project. Whether you want to view the beautiful portraits already held in our archive or get your own photo taken, this free community event is open to all local residents.
Participants will be photographed against a specially created backdrop and will receive a complimentary digital copy of their portrait. To preserve this moment for generations to come, an additional copy of your portrait will be added to the Local History collection at the St Heliers Bay Library.
Matariki with Ellerslie Arts
Rongoa Māori and Mirimiri
Free perfomrances
"Have a go" circus workshops with te Kura Maninirau
Taonga Tākaro
Matariki Celebration: Ōrākei Marae Waiata Performance
Come and celebrate Matariki with us at this free community event! St Heliers Library is proud to host a very special, authentic cultural celebration featuring a live waiata performance by special guests from Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Marae.
This is a beautiful, open-door opportunity for local residents, families, and seniors to gather together, mark the Māori New Year, and connect with the rich indigenous history of our local area.
Matariki Festival- Starlight Storytime, Crafts & Waiata
Celebrate Matariki with the whānau at this interactive, fun-filled community event! Proudly supported by the Ōrākei Local Board, Auckland East Community Network, and The Re-Creators, this evening is packed with free activities for all ages:
4:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Children’s Matariki crafts (with upcycling experts The Re-creators) plus beautiful Face Painting by Ana.
5:30 PM – 6:00 PM: Magical Starlight Storytime.
6:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Ukulele waiata accompanied by complimentary hot chocolate and cookies to keep everyone warm!
Bring the family along to connect, create, and reflect together. Spaces are limited, so secure your free tickets via the registration link below.
Auditions - Seniors wanted
Auditions for “Two Islands” are coming soon at The Dust Palace in Ellerslie.
This is an intergenerational production, including seniors and the Youth Circus.
Time commitment: 4 rehearsals (monthly) and 1 performance (in October).
Details HERE and from Geoff Allen 021-262-4907 and info@thedustpalace.co.nz
FREE WORKSHOP - Love Your Leftovers
Join the Compost Collective for this FREE and interesting workshop.
Details and How to register HERE
Have Your Say at Auckland East Community Network
The draft Ōrākei Local Board Plan has been shaped by your earlier feedback - now it's time to check in.
Did we get it right? Come to St Heliers Community Centre to hear more about the plan from local board members, ask questions, and give your feedback. Everyone is welcome.
Online feedback is open from 23 June - 23 July. More information is available at https://akhaveyoursay.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/local-board-plans-2026/orakei-local-board-plan-2026