Display twice as nice for new year
Fireworks, food trucks and live music will help ring in the new year when Napier’s popular New Year’s Eve event at the Soundshell makes a comeback on Saturday, December 31.
There will be something for everyone, with people of all ages being offered the opportunity to see 2023 in with a bang — not once, but twice.
A highlight of the event has always been the fireworks display, and organisers have confirmed there will be two displays — one for youngsters at 9.45pm and another one at midnight.
Napier City Council events manager Kevin Murphy says it’s great to welcome the New Year’s Eve event back after a tumultuous few years in the events industry.
“New Year’s Eve at the Soundshell has become a tradition for many — locals and visitors — so it’s awesome to see it back on the Napier events calendar,” Kevin says.
This year’s headline act is AutoMatic 80s, featuring frontman Justin Maclaren, backed up by Pearl Runga, drummer Glen Child, lead guitarist Ryan Wood and bassist Todd Rice. Together, they deliver hits from bands such as The Human League, Simple Minds, Duran Duran, Blondie and Culture Club through to artists such as Kate Bush and Robert Palmer.
AutoMatic 80s will supported by Michael Stodart and the Elton John Experience, Alexander Nicole, and Rezpect Dance Academy.
Keyinformation:
7pm start
Family fireworks at 9.45pm Fireworks at midnight The event is alcohol-free No fires are to be lit on the beach
There will be road closures — go to napier.govt.nz for further information
The event will go ahead rain or shine, unless deemed unsafe due to weather conditions