NEWS RELEASE
20 March 2008

Hot-air balloons set to light up Oriental Bay

This Easter Sunday, up to 16 hot-air balloons will be inflated - weather permitting - on Oriental Bay Beach, providing a stunning sunset spectacle.

The balloons are being brought to Wellington as part of the ‘Lift off Levin’ balloon festival in Levin over Easter.

The balloons, some up to six storeys high, will be inflated on the beach from about 7.30pm as the sun sets on Sunday evening.

At 8pm the balloons will begin a dramatic display of flame and light that will last between 20 and 30 minutes. The balloons are expected to present a dazzling spectacle against the backdrop of the harbour.

Once the balloons are inflated the public will be welcome to stroll along the beach to meet the balloonists and their crews. However for safety reasons they will be asked to return to the promenade when deflation process begins.

As well being a showcase for hot-air ballooning, the event will raise awareness for the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation’s national fundraising and awareness day - ’Balloon Day’ - to be held nationwide on 10 May.

Collectors will be on hand to accept gold coin contributions on Sunday evening.

This event is weather-dependent; if the wind is too strong it is unlikely the event will go ahead.

ENDS

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