Paintvine

Overview

Drinking while completing run-of-the-mill activities is the latest trend to sweep through New Zealand. First there was the act of downing a cold one while attempting downward dog at beer yoga; now there's the marriage of wine and painting.

The exercise of staying hydrated between brush strokes apparently originated in Alabama in 2004 as a way for art students to tick off both painting and drinking. After noticing the success of similar events internationally, Auckland-based founders Alex Hamilton, Denym Bird and Euan Lockie were inspired to put the "culture back in New Zealand's drinking culture".

Since launching ten months ago more than 100 Paintvine nights have been held with over 2500 would-be Picassos assembling in venues across the North Island. The event takes place every Tuesday night between 7-9pm at Spitting Feathers.

No previous experience or artistic skills are required as guests are guided step-by-step through a famous work. All the appropriate tools are supplied to make your own masterpiece, so you can simply put on an apron, grab a vino (the first one is free) and translate your head trip on paper.