Brilliant Things To Do With Your Mum This Mother's Day
Eight activities worthy of your mum's maternal magnificence.
Your mum is swell. She played Uber when you were sneaking mixed spirits into house parties in mini Pump bottles, always cut the crust off your sammies and laughed when you got suspended from school for mooning unsuspecting public out of a car window wearing your school uniform (sorry Elaine).
This Sunday, May 8 you have a chance to thank good ol' mumsy for being such a legend. So don't buy her wilting flowers or socks - do something that's almost as awesome as she is (tough ask for my mum - 'cause she's awesome as). Without further ado here's the best things to do in Auckland this Mother's Day - worthy of your mum's maternal magnificence.
Dialogue: Mum's The Word
As part of the 2016 NZ International Comedy Festival, 2010 'Comedian of the Year' Michelle A'Court will host a comic tribute to mums everywhere. A'Court and a lineup of New Zealand's best female stand-up talent will tell stories and reminisce about their mothers, in a show which is bound to have you and the old girl in fits of laughter. Plus, if you really love your mum, Q Theatre are putting on a special dinner package which includes dinner, dessert and champagne. All mums love a drop of champers.
Poses & Pints
Beer and yoga may just be the ultimate in Mother's Day activities (not at the same time obviously, it's hard to sip a pint while you're bent like a pretzel). One of Auckland's best brew pubs is hosting a gentle flow yoga session on the deck of their Browns Bay restaurant from 9.45 to 10.45am on Mother's Day - with a post-pose pint as reward. Debbie Taylor of Zenith Yoga will lead the session and Deep Creek has even brewed a beer for the occasion - the Lotus Pale Ale, a hoppy golden brew with plenty floral and citrusy character. If your mum's keen to zen the elbow and do something a little different, then get in quick and email Andrew at [email protected] to reserve your spot.
Bird On A Wire Mother's Day Breakfast Menu
One of Auckland's most delicious eateries will launch their new breakfast menu this Mother's Day and it includes several mouth-watering highlights such as stuffed brioche French toast and chilli butter-fried eggs with hash. Plus it's all free range and ethically sourced so mother hen can enjoy her brunch guilt free. The new menu will be served at their flagship Ponsonby branch from 7am to 1pm on Mother's Day and 7am to 11pm seven days a week thereafter.
The Caker Baking Demonstration
This one's a win win. The old girl spends two hours enjoying tips and demonstrations from one of Auckland's most talented bakers, then you reap the rewards in the form of delicious treats via her new and improved baking skills. Jordan Rondel of The Caker will bake three of her favourite recipes from her new book and guests will get the chance to taste all three creations, while sipping on Laurent Perrier champagne. When it's all over, mum will be further spoilt with a gift bag including a $25 The Caker voucher, cake mix and a discount on Kenwood products.
Sunday Markets
We're spoiled for choice with farmer's markets in Auckland, the abundance available in and around the city catering to all manner of mummies. If you're mum's a fan of French food and/or slightly fancy, pop down to Parnell's La Cigale French Market. Out west or fancy shopping by the sea? Visit Hobsonville Point Farmers Market for craft goods, some of the best dumplings in Auckland, a talking parrot and plenty local produce. If you've got time for a road trip go for Matakana Village Markets, it's well worth the drive and serves some of the best food of all Auckland's markets (especially the oysters).
Stargaze at the Stardome
On a budget but still want to do something special? Bring mum along to any Stardome show on May 8 and she'll get in free with another paying customer (pro tip: act like you paid full price for extra mum-cred). My recommendation would be the Autumn Night Sky Tour, where you'll enjoy a guided tour of the constellations and stars from the comfort of a cushy recliner.
Give local mums a helping hand with Bellyful
Bellyful is a charitable service started by local Auckland mum Jackie Ritchie, which provides free meals for families with young infants or family members affected by terminal illness. They accept donations and if you've got the time you can even volunteer to help those in need. So as a novel gift idea this Mother's Day, why not help a mum less fortunate than your own. This proposal works on two levels, your mum will think you're the best person ever as you donate on her behalf and you'll make another mum's day better somewhere in Auckland.
High Tea at The Peace and Plenty Inn
After rigorous research and consulting with experts, there's no doubt in my mind that the best high tea in Auckland can be found at The Peace and Plenty Inn in Devonport. In a historic village setting, right by the sea, this palatial Victorian residence was built as early as 1880 and sports several deck areas, a beautiful garden and sea views. Mum will be happy as Larry as she nibbles on truffles and savouries, sips premium champagne and acts like the true lady that she is.
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