15th November 2005

Auckland Opens The Ultimate Birthday Gift

Exciting plans for Auckland Anniversary Weekend 2006 unveiled

Heralded as a unique celebration of Auckland, the City of Sails, today sees the launch of the Auckland Harbour Festival, an attraction destined to become a permanent fixture on Auckland’s event calendar.

A fun-filled family event of appeal to all ages, Auckland Harbour Festival is a three-day extravaganza to be held over Auckland’s Anniversary Weekend from 28th– 30th January.

While most of the activities will be held at the city’s Viaduct Harbour, additional events are also planned for Devonport and around Tamaki Drive.

Privately operated but hosted by Auckland City, attractions include major live music acts, a Tall Ships and classic yachts display, street theatre, a children’s fun fair – featuring one of the world’s tallest Ferris wheels. There will also be free tours of the Maritime Museum, naval displays and the chance for thousands of children to enjoy a free trial of new water-based sports, on-water match-racing and the Auckland Regatta complete the event programme.

Says one of the three directors of Auckland Harbour Festival, Dave Stewart: “Auckland is a unique city with a magnificent harbour. The festival is about celebrating Auckland and gifting a sense of pride back to those who live here. And when better to do that than on the city’s birthday weekend.”

Dave adds that further unique attractions will be announced over the following months. “You don’t have to own a boat to share in the magic and excitement of this event. There will be activity for everyone to enjoy and the atmosphere is sure to be electric.”

There is no entrance fee to the overall event, though certain attractions such as children’s fun fair rides will command a modest price.

Parking will be available at all downtown city carparks and maps of the event activity and details of link buses will be announced as the event nears.

ENDS

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