About 150 people took part in the long-running annual event, which combines traditional fair games in the afternoon with a bonfire and fireworks after sunset.
Kids of all ages took part in a range of games including three-legged races, sack races, a wheelbarrow race, and an egg-hurling competition.
The afternoon's activities concluded with the long-running Big Dig, organised by local crib-owners Wayne Allen and Peter Hill.
Mr Allen said the number of people attending the event looked ''on par'' with previous years, despite the threat of showers.
''In past years we've had people carry on digging for prizes for more than and hour-and-a-half, so I'm giving some of the little ones a helping hand with my 'magic stick','' he said.
Carnival spokeswoman Emma Bardsley said people would return to their cribs once the digging had finished, before returning for a beachside bonfire and fireworks from 10pm.
''As you can see, we've got a great family atmosphere here today, with everyone mucking in and having some fun.
The event had been running in some form for at least 30 years, she said.
''The secret is not doing anything too fancy. It's a bit like going back in time to the traditional Kiwi holidays of the past. Just a lovely, old-fashioned celebration,'' she said.
