29 Aug 2024

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Ring in the new year at a free concert in North Hagley Park with rockers Queen Forever.

The international tribute band are locked and loaded to bring a night of iconic Queen covers to revellers at the NYE24 community celebration put on by Christchurch City Council.

Formed in 2006, the highly skilled group of musicians have mastered the art of replicating Queen’s music and live performances – regularly touring internationally and around Australia.

This New Year’s Eve, they’ll be bringing their high-energy show to Ōtautahi Christchurch for the first time, says Council Manager Events and Arts Lucy Blackmore.

“Queen Forever are going to put on an unmissable performance, so we’re getting the word out early so everyone can mark their calendars to be at NYE24 for their new year’s celebrations.

“Whether you’re a Queen fan, classic rock fan or just love a fun night out with friends and whānau, this will be a New Years’ Eve to remember,” Ms Blackmore says.

“Join the band in belting out Queen’s greatest hits, like ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, ‘We Will Rock You’, ‘Don’t Stop Me Now’ and ‘We Are the Champions’ and dance your way into 2025.”

Castaway

Warming up the crowd is opening act Castaway – a five-piece pop-rock group born out of a university hall of residence in Ōtautahi. They’re followed by local rockers Tattoo Voodoo, performing classic covers of The Rolling Stones.

“There’s a bit of a rock legends theme this year, brought by Queen Forever and Tattoo Voodoo, which will be lots of fun. It’s also great to have rising stars Castaway delivering their own brand of original, energetic pop-rock,” Ms Blackmore says.

Set in North Hagley Park on Tuesday 31 December, NYE24 kicks off at 8pm after the family-friendly kids’ segment wraps up.

“A huge countdown to midnight is followed by an epic fireworks display to bring in 2025.

“NYE24 is a free, all-ages event, but it’s more suited to an audience aged 15 and up. We’ll be sharing more on our NYE Kids’ Countdown, which runs from 4–7pm, closer to the event.”

The New Year’s Eve celebrations are smoke, vape and alcohol-free events.

Learn more about NYE24 on What’s On.

Image above: Queen Forever. 

Tattoo Voodoo