New Year’s Eve festivities are planned across the South, and there is plenty on the menu.
Last year, Covid 19 restrictions put a dampener on public events.
But with restrictions eased, and hopefully the weather ready to play its part, public events are back and organisers are hoping big crowds will return.
In Dunedin, celebrations again centre on the Octagon, where some new attractions are on offer.
From 6pm there will be live music, food stalls and family-friendly entertainment.
Just before 10pm, a bird of peace aerial show will take place, followed by headline act Loose and Colourful.
At midnight, the new year will be celebrated with a laser light show.
A free bus service will run at the end of the event to many outlying areas.
In Wanaka, the lakefront is expected to be packed with thousands of revellers.
A similar scenario is expected in Queenstown.
Queenstown Lakes District Council arts and events relationship manager Jan Maxwell said the focus was again on providing a family-friendly and safe environment for everyone to enjoy.
"I’m so pleased we’re able to get these fantastic events back on the summer calendar.
"Both kick off with fun entertainment from 2pm followed by live music and, of course, spectacular fireworks displays at midnight," she said.
Safe zones will be available in Wanaka and Queenstown over the new year from December 29 where people can go if they are looking for some time out.
Earnslaw Park in Queenstown will once again be the main focus for New Year’s Eve entertainment in the resort.
From 2pm-5pm the reserve will take on a family-friendly focus, with face painting and roaming entertainers, before the main stage comes alive from 7.30pm.
A fireworks display over Queenstown Bay will be set off at midnight.
Oamaru is hosting its New Year’s Eve Party at the Gardens, featuring
live music and entertainment plus plenty of activities for children.
It is a strictly alcohol and glass-free event and the festivities will begin at 6pm.
The Fiordland Rotary Club is hosting a New Year’s Eve event in Te Anau with live music and a bonfire, finishing with fireworks.
The event starts at Lions Park at 9.30pm.
In the Catlins there are celebrations at Pounawea and Papatowai.
The Pounawea event starts at 6pm, with fireworks at midnight.
The Papatowai Beach Carnival starts at noon with the Big Dig at 2pm. Evening entertainment begins at 10pm.
