TIME TO GET TECHY

An Auckland-based programme designed for adults who want to stay ahead of the curve in a techenabled world returns to Auckland on June 7. The Tech Toolbox is a 10-week course specifically for adults who want to keep up with their tech-savvy kids and is put on by The Mind Lab at Unitec. Parents and grandparents will be immersed in the digital and new creative technologies - from building a robot, to 3D printing and creating, to experimenting with augmented reality or coding a computer game. No experience is necessary for the programme and attendees are able to bring a friend over the age of 13 each week for free. Visit themindlab.com/tech-toolbox for more information.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

The search is on for volunteers to help out with the upcoming New Zealand Lions Series. More than 150 people are needed to be city ambassadors for the 34,500 visitors expected to hit Auckland during the tour. Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED) head of major events Charmaine Ngarimu said the volunteers are an integral part in ensuring events run smoothly. City ambassadors for the series will be positioned at key locations around Auckland to provide directions, city information, fanzone, fan trail and games information to visitors for the rugby. Volunteers will be required for shifts on June 23 to 25 and July 7 to 9 from 10am to 6pm. Visit volunteernet.org.nz to volunteer as a city ambassador the Lions tour.

HOSPITALITY CHAMPIONSHIPS

Entries for the NZ Hospitality Championships are open. With 74 different competitions there is something for everyone - from high tea to margarine sculpting to cocktail making. Challengers of all ages and stages can compete with divisions covering junior, secondary school, in training and open. The competition runs alongside the Auckland Food Show where you can sample some of the country’s most delicious produce. Go to nzchefs.org.nz/competitions to enter.