NEWS RELEASE 17 January 2008

Capital to mark anniversary with many colourful events

The diverse range of free events taking place across the Capital this weekend will provide opportunities for Wellingtonians to celebrate their city's anniversary in fitting style.

As part of Meridian Summer City 08, Sunday Sampler will be taking place at Frank Kitts Park from Sunday noon to 6pm. With an eclectic line up of Wellington musicians mixing local and international flavours, the event will be a tribute to the Capital's celebrated cultural diversity.

The afternoon will kick into gear with hot Cuban rhythms from Los Guagua Boys. Next, Libra Accord will play an intriguing mix of folk, new wave and Krautrock. They will be followed by the up and coming roots-reggae outfit Hikoikoi. The Petone based group have gained critical acclaim for their distinctive early Jamaican-influenced sound and will be a must-see for any lovers of 'old-school' reggae. Jon Sanders and Eoin Duignan will then follow traditional Irish music. The event will close in fine style with a scorching set of African dance music from the Congolese Afro-beat veteran Sam Manzanza and the Rhythm African Band.

Sunday Sampler also offers arts and crafts, food stalls and kids' rides. It promises to be a great day out for the whole family with a heady mix of sights and sounds.

Wellingtonians interested in hip hop culture can head to Civic Square and witness New Zealand's largest break dancing event Bodyrock. The event will run on Saturday from noon until 6pm.

Saturday will also see our local petrol-heads out in force for Wheels on the Waterfront. All manner of hot rods and performance cars will be on display at Odlins Plaza on Taranaki Street Wharf from 10 am until 4pm when the mean machines will leave en masse for a cruise through the city.

There will also be plenty of action at Oriental Bay with Ultimate Frisbee Competitions on Saturday and Sunday followed by the Beach Hand Ball Championships on Monday.

The ASB Gardens Magic events will also continue at the Botanic Garden Sound Shell with psychedelic rock group Ginger Brown playing on Saturday night. The capital's perennial favourites the Beat Girls will perform their new glam rock set on Sunday followed by the Latin Jazz styling of Grupo Salson on Monday.

ENDS.

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