Christmas celebrations exploded into life last night as Dunedin's Octagon Christmas tree was lit up in front of a thousand-strong crowd.
And despite the carols, the poetry, the happy dancing children and festive atmosphere, it was the explosion of glitter from the 10.5m tree that got the biggest cheer.
Soon after 9.30pm, two teams of children tugged and pulled at two symbolic power cables.
When those cables met and the tree's lights were switched on, concealed cannons fired blue and silver glitter from the tree.
The glitter fluttered above hundreds of children's outstretched hands before another round of carols began.
The Christmas celebrations will continue tomorrow with the 18th Dunedin Santa Parade, in George St, starting at 3pm.
A fine afternoon, with a high of 15degC, is forecast by MetService.
If the event is postponed because of the weather, details will be announced on all major radio stations at 11am. The parade would then be held next Sunday.
