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EXPLORE M A O R I HI S T O R Y
NZ > For a crash course in New Zealand’s history and culture, visit the birthplace of modernday Aotearoa. Start in the museum, then visit the Treaty House. Receive a traditional powhiri welcoming ceremony, then watch haka and poi performances at a Maori meeting house. New Zealand residents gain entry for just $25, while non-residents pay $50 and children are free. waitangi.org.nz
WANDER THROUGH A FIELD OF LIGHT
NT > Every day, as the sun dips in the sky, 50,000 LEDs illuminate the red earth at the foot of Uluru. Meandering through the installation by artist Bruce Munro – a desert spectrum of ochre, violet, blue and white lights – is a uniquely immersive way to explore the heart of Australia. Entry is $43 (but you can also upgrade to dinner packages that include entry tickets for a higher price). ayersrockresort.com.au/fieldoflight
E N J OY A S H O W V I C > Going to the theatre is a good reason to get dressed up, put your phone on silent and sound really sophisticated when you tell your friends you missed their call because you were “at the theatre”. The Malthouse Theatre in Southbank is one of Melbourne’s most revered and has been showcasing contemporary and classic productions for over 40 years. Ticket prices start at just $35. malthousetheatre.com.au
TA KE A BACKSTAGE TO UR
QLD > Stickybeaks and theatre lovers, unite. It’s time to go beind the scenes. The Queensland Performing Arts Centre Weekly Discovery Tour is not only one of the most affordable tours in town at $15, it’s one of the most fascinating. Taking place from 10.30am to 11.30am on Fridays, the backstage tour raises the curtain on the goings-on at Brisbane’s leading theatrical complex. An experienced tour guide will explain the history and architecture of QPAC, opened in 1985, and take you through the Tony Gould Gallery, which showcases collections from the theatre’s past shows in ever-changing exhibitions. qpac.com.au
S C O R E C HE A P T ICK E T S NSW
> Quality culture can often come at a cost, which makes Sydney Theatre Company’s once-a-week drop of cheap tickets a very welcome treat. Set your alarm for Thursday 9am and score a $20 ticket from a limited batch. With all the extra savings, you can splurge on a pre-show dinner or cocktails. sydneytheatre.com.au/ whats-on/twenties