Puppy love

You might want to go prepared for some begging if you take the kids to the Auckland Pet and Animal Expo. From turtles to ponies, they’re sure to want to take a new furry or slimy friend home. But it’s the last weekend of the school holidays so patting a cute puppy might be what the doctor ordered as they prepare for another busy term.

You’ve almost made it through the holidays and if your children are still alive, you’re doing great. There’s a chance this final weekend will have them bouncing off the walls and leaning on your last nerve so why not take them out for a bit of pet therapy at the Auckland Pet and Animal Expo. There will be all kinds of pets there including ponies and alpacas, and illusionist Andre Vegas will be doing his animal magic show twice daily at 11am and 2pm. If you have pets of your own you can pick up all kinds of products and services there, if you don’t, you may be leaving with a child who will beg you for one until you eventually give in or die. Today and tomorrow, 10am-5pm, ASB Showgrounds, Greenlane. Tickets $5 children, $11 seniors, $14 adult, $35 family pass.