MAGICAL GAME TRANSFORMS PARKS

An app game called Magical Park 2 has been launched at 13 parks across Auckland for the school holidays. Aimed at children from six to 11, the augmented reality game alters park spaces with 3D images via a smartphone or tablet. Parks transform into a digital fantasy land where children can roam with a robot, collect cute kittens and train a dragon. The app is designed to encourage locals to be more active and to make greater use of the city’s open spaces. Download the Magical Park app for free at Google Play and the Apple App store.

FREE PARTY FOR EARLY VOTERS

On September 21, Rockenrol will be throwing a party at Whammy Bar for people who have voted early. Rockenrol is an organisation aimed at activating the youth vote in New Zealand. Early voting stations are now open across the country, with the Electoral Commission projecting about 50 per cent of voters are likely to vote ahead of election day this Saturday. The party starts at 9pm and will feature live performances by Dead Favours, Kara Gordon & The Wreckage and Royal Jackets. The party will be free for people who can prove they have voted with an ‘I voted’ sticker or stamp, or a photo or copy of their Easyvote card. For others, it will be $20 at the door with profits going towards Rockenrol campaigns.

AUCKLAND HERITAGE FESTIVAL

From September 30 to October 15, the Auckland Heritage Festival will be showcasing exhibitions and events across the region. This year’s theme is ‘From waterways to motorways: the heritage of transport and travel in Ta¯maki Makaurau’. With more than 170 free or low cost events, people will be able to join a walking or bike tour, watch experts debate heritage protection or have a Victorian packed lunch. Festival-goers will also be able to jump on a ferry tour and trace a WWI escape or explore Upper Waitemata¯ Harbour’s former ‘waterway highways’. Programmes are available from Auckland Libraries or selected cafes.