Celebrate the never-ending summer by filling your social calendar.

While summer only officially lasts until the end of February, if this year has been anything to go by, we are likely to reap the benefits of the warmest season until at least the end of March.

And what better way to celebrate the extension of the most sociable season of the year than with a round up of FQ’s pick of events to attend while the weather is still hot?

Vodafone Derby Day
Saturday 3 March, Ellerslie Racecourse, gates open 10.30am

The first event of Auckland Cup Week, Vodafone Derby Day will be taking place on Saturday 3 March. With a black and white style theme, this promises to be a glamorous day with the national final of Fashions on the Field taking place. Derby Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate two of our favourite things – fashion and the races – and toast to an amazing summer!

Tickets start at $20pp and can be purchased at www.ellerslie.co.nz.

Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Cup Day
Saturday 10 March, Ellerslie Racecourse, gates open at 10.30am

One of the most prestigious days of racing in the country, Auckland Cup Day will celebrate some of the best horses in New Zealand, as well as host the iconic Auckland Cup Race. Another brilliant day to don your finest racing gears and toast the end of the racing season – note attendees are encouraged to add a touch of blue to their outfit!

Tickets start at $20pp and can be purchased at www.ellerslie.co.nz

Flamingo Pier
Saturday 3 February, Rangihoua Estate, Waiheke Island

One of our favourite festivals of the season, Flamingo Pier will be taking place on Saturday 3 February at Rangihoua Estate on Waiheke Island. An amazing day filled with good music, food and drink (Miss Moonshines, Yeah Bowl Poke and Bedford Soda and Liquor are just some of the amazing vendors attending), and, of course, good vibes, this is one Waitangi Weekend event you will definitely want to be at.

For more info and tickets visit iTicket.

American Express Open Air Cinema
1-3 March, Western Springs Park

Running from the 1 February all the way through until 3 March, the American Express Open Air Cinema is the best way to make the most of the balmy summer nights while catching some new release films (oh, and did we mention your dogs can come?!). Featuring a lineup of new movies such as I, Tonya, Molly’s Game, Thor Ragnarok and Pitch Perfect 3, you’ll be pleased to know there is also Toto’s Pizza available and a fully stocked bar (and hello, they even have frosé!)

For more info and tickets visit www.openaircinemas.com.au.

Heineken Urban Polo
Saturday 24 February, various locations

This polo tournament adapts the traditional polo game for a smaller field, while still managing to retain the excitement and atmosphere. Handy for city-siders who don’t want to make the pilgrimage to the countryside for the traditional polo, it’s a perfect opportunity to get amongst while only being a short Uber ride from home! In addition to the Auckland event at Shore Road Reserve, it will also take place in Christchurch, Hamilton and Wellington during March.

For more info and tickets visit www.urbanpolo.co.nz.

Splore
23-25 February, Tapapakanga Regional Park

Boasting one of their best line ups yet, this seaside festival is New Zealand’s answer to Glastonbury and Coachella. Dressing up is encouraged, kids are welcome, and out-of-the-box entertainment is a given, it is unlike most of the other music festivals of the season. With an entertainment schedule ranging from Dizzee Rascal to Ashtanga Yoga sessions, there really is something for everyone at Splore.

For more info and tickets visit the Splore website.

Land Rover NZ Polo Open
Sunday 18 February, Auckland Polo Club, Clevedon

The most prestigious date on the Auckland polo calendar, the Land Rover NZ Polo Open attracts some of the best names in polo – both local and international – to put together one of the top social events of the summer. With the combination of the fast-paced sport and the field-side fun, this is one event you definitely want to be at.

For more information and tickets, visit iTicket.co.nz.

WOMAD
16-18 March, New Plymouth

Celebrating all things music, art and dance, WOMAD brings together artists from across the globe for this family-friendly weekend festival. Located in New Plymouth, you’ll find no better way to wind down the summer.

For more information and tickets visit www.womad.co.nz.