“It’s all happening! It always is!” hollers Miss Ribena down the phone to express from a pumping Family Bar. 
The nightclub diva is one of three hosts looking after Family’s big Wednesday night karaoke, alongside the inimitable Miss Ford and newcomer Jazzy James. But can the team hold a tune?


“We’re not Christina or Madonna but we can sure belt out a few notes,” laughs Ribena. “And anyone who thinks they’ve got the chops has got to get on down here and cause a scene, because soon we’ll be starting a very special karaoke competition. Come in now and get in some practice!”


Family’s new karaoke competition is The F Factor. Ribena’s no Simon Cowell but singers will be put through their paces, so come on down and catch some entertainment. Ribena and crew assure us happy hour is from 9-10pm to ensure you’re all loosened up in time to sing. Big prizes are yet to be revealed – you’ll simply have to be there to see!


“Calling all you lippie-loving lads out there – we’ve got a new drag competition starting soon that you don’t want to miss,” says Ribena. “From 27 October we’re starting Drag For Dollars and it’s a good one. First prize is a trip to Sydney with two nights accommodation included… if that’s not enough to make you don a frock, I don’t know what is!


“Nine queens are already interested in taking part, so register your interest with Family now!”


If frocks don’t tickle your fancy, why not sign up for the upcoming Mr Gay Auckland competition? Ribena’s lips are sealed about the revived event, but we hear the bar is doing away with the heats and just putting on one big glamorous night of shirtless boys, cheeky performances and innuendo-filled Q&As.

Want in? Register your interest now at the bar, and stay tuned!


Ribena’s ready and says, “It’s big, it’s back and it’s better than ever. Start the sit ups now, boys!”