Wonderful Highwic. (Credit: Grant Sheehan)

Art Deco Day at Highwic

Auckland’s Own Art Deco Day Out will make a grand entrance once again at Highwic on 8 April (1pm to 6pm).

The 150-year-old mansion in Newmarket, which is cared for by Heritage New Zealand, will throw open its gates for the annual festival of all things Deco including live jazz performed at the Cup Cake Café on-site, and a sparkling array of classic cars from the days of flappers and swingers.

Refreshing G&Ts will also be on sale for the day at Hendrick’s Gin Bar, and a range of stalls selling quality vintage products will also be operating within Highwic’s grounds.  If that isn’t enough, Highwic’s shop will also be selling its range of Victorian style vintage greeting cards, games, books, crafts and more.

The hotly contested Glory Days Costume Competition will be held once again.  The contest is free to enter and fabulous prizes from Minnie Cooper, Glory Days, Hendrick's Gin and Highwic will be awarded to the Best Dressed Lady, Gent and Child.

The team from Gin Mill Swing will also host a free dance class early on so people can learn some fancy moves before dancing the afternoon away to live jazz from the New Orleans Joymakers.

The wonderful world of Art Deco provides the ultimate in feel-good nostalgia, says Highwic Property Lead Cheryl Laurie.

“The $5 admission fee is also great value, enabling people to look around Highwic – though it will pay to bring some extra cash to enjoy some of the other attractions we’ll have on-site,” she says.

For more information on Auckland’s Own Art Deco Day Out – including parking directions – visit http://www.heritage.org.nz/news-and-events/events/highwic-art-deco-day

Don’t miss Auckland’s Own ). Admission: $5 per adult; children free. Refreshments not included in admission.

Caption: Wonderful Highwic.  Credit: Grant Sheehan