Sometimes, all the human soul desires is to have and to hold a little four-legged being. At least, for a moment. Thank heavens an official event called ‘Hug a Pug’ has finally arrived in Auckland, allowing pug-lovers to get their fix. Taking place on Saturday 2nd September, you can head along to 99 St Georges Bay Road — aka ‘Central Bark’ — and, for a gold coin donation, hug as many pugs as you like. With plenty of auxiliary carry-on (raffles etc.) and all money raised going to the NZ Pug rescue organisation, if you are a fan of this superior breed of pup, we suggest you lock the date into your diary.

For more information, visit the Facebook page here.