PHOTO


The sky above New Brighton will be lit up for Christchurch's annual fireworks display later this month.
The popular Winter Fireworks Spectacular at the New Brighton Pier on Saturday, June 27, will be set off at 7.30pm and free to attend.
Christchurch City Council events and arts manager Lucy Blackmore said the theme for the display will be Dancefloor Anthems.
A sizzling soundtrack to accompany the fireworks. The playlist will feature tracks like Blinding Lights by The Weekend and Fat Boy Slim’s The Rockafeller Skank.
"The display will be set off from the pier at around 7.30pm and it’s set to be an absolute humdinger this year," said Blackmore.
"People will be able to see the fireworks from as far away as Sumner and Mt Pleasant, not just at the beach.
“It’s a magical occasion and a special way to kick off our winter events season."
The car park north of the pier will also be pumping with entertainment, Blackmore said.
A range of food vendors offering dinner, snack and drink options will be on site from 5.30pm to 8pm.
“We’re expecting a massive turnout this year with around 30,000 people likely to attend, so make sure you arrive early to secure a good spot,” Blackmore said.
If the weather conditions are unsuitable on the day, the event will be postponed to Sunday, June 28.
To keep up to date with any changes, check the city council’s Facebook page.
A park and ride service called Fireworks will operate from Russell St outside Eastgate mall going to Oram Ave in New Brighton every 10 minutes from 4.50pm to 5.30pm and every five minutes from 5.35pm to 6.45pm. Normal bus fares apply.
The return trip to Eastgate mall on the Route 5 bus service will be free between 8pm and 8.30pm and will leave from Oram Ave.
The city council will again partner with Metro to offer free bus rides home after the event.
There will be no charge on the Route 5 (bound for Hornby or Rolleston) and Route 60 (bound for Hillmorton) services from the Oram Ave bus stop. Additional buses on Oram Ave will take the No 5 and 60 routes as far as the Bus Interchange. The free fares apply from 8pm to 8.30pm.
To help manage traffic in the area, there will be road closures, parking restrictions and one-way traffic on designated streets in New Brighton between 4pm and 9.30pm.
Mobility parking is available to people with an official mobility sticker at the car park south of the pier.
For the easiest access, approach Marine Pde via Bridge St. Bike racks will also be available near the playground.
Don’t bring your pet to the event or your own fireworks or drones.
If you live near New Brighton Beach check out some tips to make sure your pets feel settled during the fireworks.
The event zone is smoke and vape-free and an alcohol ban in the area includes any open bottles in the public space or private vehicles.
