The Midwinter Carnival team says it is working towards a makeup event in the coming weeks after organisers had to cancel the second night of the carnival at the weekend because of heavy rain.
A spokesman for the carnival said it was a difficult decision to cancel Saturday night’s events especially after the "magic and joy" of Friday night. However, the safety and wellbeing of the audience, performers and crew had to come first.
Ticket refunds were not available because the event was called off due to extreme weather.
"As a not-for-profit charitable trust, the Midwinter Carnival must still meet the full cost of delivering the event, including infrastructure, staffing, artist fees and materials."
A statement on Saturday said a makeup event for the Saturday ticket holders was being planned.
It would offer a chance for Saturday ticket holders to come together and still experience a little bit of carnival magic.
The event would feature lantern installations, live music, performers and more.
Further details, including the date and location, would be shared soon, the statement said.
Despite not being able to put on a second night at the weekend, the Midwinter Carnival organisers were proud of what was delivered on Friday, the spokesman said.
"We're proud of what was achieved and so grateful for the magic we did get to share together."
The theme of the festival this year was Wings of Wonder and First Church was transformed into a glowing display of things fantastical and winged on Friday night.
New Zealand native birds, mythical creatures and small critters, including the classic butterfly, were featured.
Coastal Dunedin bore the brunt of heavy rain on Friday and Saturday.
In total, 78.5mm of rain was recorded at Pine Hill in the 48 hours to 1pm yesterday. — APL
