Strong gusts nearly stop fireworks

The sky above Dunedin was alight with colours of celebration as Chinese New Year was welcomed in, but strong winds almost put an end to the fireworks display before it could begin.

The Year of the Rabbit was brought in with dancing dragons, a parade and cultural performances at Lan Yuan Dunedin Chinese Gardens on Saturday.

Trust member and event MC Malcolm Wong said it was not just a celebration of Chinese culture, however, as there were shows put on by other local cultural groups, such as African and Japanese drummers.

It was the best Chinese New Year firework performance he had ever seen in Dunedin, but it almost did not happen.

If the gusts were only a little faster, the show would have had to be cancelled for safety reasons.

The MetService reported wind gusts up to 44kmh on Saturday.

Chinese New Year celebrations could not be held last year because of Covid-19 event restrictions.

It was great to bring it in properly this year with such wonderful performances.

The Year of the Rabbit was said to be a lucky and peaceful year, which would hopefully be prosperous.

A Dunedin City Council spokesman said about 5000 attended the event across the evening.

wyatt.ryder@odt.co.nz