More than 170 people packed into the Iona Church, Port Chalmers, yesterday for an annual Christmas carol-singing event.
The ''Carols in the Dell'' gathering is usually held at the Lady Thorn Rhododendron Dell in Church St, but was switched to the nearby church because of the risk of wet weather.
Having run for at least 10 years, the event is organised by the Port Chalmers and District Lions Club and co-ordinated by former club president Les Box.
Mr Box was ''thrilled'' at the public response and said the event had been ''very successful'', with some extra seating provided to cater for the strong public demand.
''Everybody was really getting into the swing of it; they were all joining in. There's definitely a need for this type of event.''
The high turnout reflected the overall strength of the Port Chalmers community and also showed the Christmas spirit, he said.
The gathering included both young and old, and the organisational work involved had proved ''well worthwhile'' when he saw many people enjoying themselves in this way.
The carol singing was also moved indoors last year because of weather issues. The Dunedin Salvation Army Band and the Dunedin Harmony Chorus performed yesterday, and the compere was Gladys Hope.
People attending were asked to make a gold-coin donation to the Salvation Army Christmas Appeal. At least $500 was raised, organisers said.
