Things to do  |  10 Dec 2024

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Whether you’ve got little ones or want to party until midnight, the free Council-produced New Year's Eve festivities have you covered.

Celebrate with whānau and friends at North Hagley Park on 31 December.

The NYE Kids’ Countdown runs from 4–7pm and is packed with disco-themed fun for young families. Led by children’s entertainer Trubie-Dylan Smith, the entertainment will include music, dance, games and a mock countdown with confetti canons.

From 8pm, NYE24 turns up the heat with three bands taking the stage until midnight. Local acts Castaway and Tattoo Voodoo will kick off the evening, and headliner Queen Forever promise to transport you back to the heyday of one of the greatest rock bands of all time.

Here's everything you need to know:

Food, drink and restrictions

  •          These events are smoke, vape and alcohol-free. A temporary liquor ban will be in place at Hagley Park from 31 December to 1 January.
  •          People should not bring any glass into the park.
  •          No drinks/liquids are permitted into the NYE24 event. Unopened drinks/liquids (but no glass) are permitted into the NYE Kids’ Countdown until 7pm.
  •          Bags will be searched on entry.
  •          Empty water bottles can be filled at our free water stations onsite.
  •          A fantastic range of food trucks and non-alcoholic beverage vendors will be onsite from 4pm, but picnics are also welcome.

The restrictions are in place to keep the events family-friendly and safe for everyone to enjoy.

General

  •          For comfort, bring a picnic blanket or chair to sit on.
  •          The NYE Kids’ Countdown is most suitable for kids aged 4–12 years old.
  •          NYE24 is most suitable for those aged 15 and over.
  •          The call to cancel may not be made until the day of the event. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for updates.

Getting there

  •          Metro buses will run to the Saturday timetable.
  •          Our interactive map will help you find central city parking. Carpooling is encouraged.
  •          A drop-off point will be located on Rolleston Avenue, near Cathedral Grammar.
  •          Mobility parking will be on Chester Street West from 3pm for those displaying a mobility pass.
  •          Bike stands will be located inside the Armagh Street entrance to Hagley Park.
  •          Scooter parking will be available on Park Terrace.
  •          There are no road closures for the event, but the Botanic Gardens Armagh Street bridge will be closed to incoming traffic from 3.30pm, due to high pedestrian volumes.

Find more information about NYE Kids’ Countdown and NYE24 at What’s On.