Locals and visitors can look forward to ringing in 2023 with the traditional New Year’s Eve celebrations on Wānaka’s lakefront this Saturday (December 31) night.

The celebrations will be welcomed after a year off when Covid-19 restrictions cancelled the event last year. 

“I’m so pleased we’re able to get these fantastic events back on the summer calendar,” Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) arts and events relationship manager Jan Maxwell said.

Jan said the entertainment will commence at 2pm and the focus will be on providing a family-friendly and safe environment for everyone to enjoy.

“The fabulous Red Frogs volunteers will be roving the CBD once again keeping an eye out for anyone who might need a bit of TLC,” she said. 

“They’ll also be running safe zones from December 29 to the end of the main event. These are available for people looking for some time out, water, or a proverbial arm around the shoulder.”

Jan said the New Year’s Eve gatherings had been growing in popularity and asked people to look out for one another and to be aware of the alcohol ban in place on the Wānaka lakefront.

The full programme is:

• 2.00-4.30pm Family fun at the Dinosaur Park including face painting, roaming entertainers and games
• DJ - JACKED DnB
• 8pm-8.30pm – Music by Powder Chutes
• 8.35pm-10.45pm – Music by LA Social
• 10.50pm-1.00am – Music by The Execs
• Fireworks at midnight.
• The New Year’s Eve event is managed by QLDC with assistance and support from local suppliers, security and traffic management contractors, emergency services and Red Frogs NZ. 

A number of road closures will be in place for the event. Details can be found on the council website.

PHOTO: Wānaka App