Christmas at the Park gets into gear

A small village is being constructed on Anderson Park from today as preparations for 2015’s Cox Partners Christmas at the Park get underway.

“The task is huge, even bigger than last year,” says event organiser and manager, David Trim, of the Kaisen Trust.

“We have to erect 1.5 kilometres of fencing, a massive stage, 40 square metre outdoor screen, gateways and the full infrastructure of power, toilets and lights.”

Preparing an event of this size on a bare park takes months of planning and fundraising, and will involve about 250 volunteers.

Fencing and infrastructure is not the only thing that needs to be constructed. There is also a confidence course, the free face painting tent, the food court and merchandise area, sound and lighting, and the pyrotechnics setup.

Hot and cold food, ice creams, coffee, and glowsticks can be purchased at the alcohol-free event.

“Christmas at the Park attracts around 20,000 people coming from all over Hawkes Bay to enjoy the atmosphere, surroundings and a great family night out,” says David.

“Anderson Park is an amazing park facility. We are so fortunate here in Napier to have such a huge space, which is under-utilised, in my opinion.”

Gates open at 3.00pm and the event finishes at 9.35pm with its unique and signature fireworks display set to a narration of the Christmas story and music.

Cox Partners Christmas at the Park is underwritten by the Kaisen Charitable Trust and Napier Christian Fellowship Trust and is not a ratepayer-funded event as many believe. Money is raised from funding trusts, donations and sponsorship.

“The free entry concert is a great gift to the city from the underwriters and from all the sponsors, who together contribute to ensure the night becomes a great experience,” says David.

“Raising the money to keep Cox Partners Christmas at the Park a professional and fun experience is always hard. Many businesses have contributed as they see the benefits of being part of such a high profile community event.”

Napier City Council and Police are enforcing a 100% alcohol ban this year. All bags will be searched and any alcohol found will be confiscated. Napier City Council has also passed a policy making Anderson Park a smoke-free area.

Car parking will be permitted on the park in the designated areas, with entrances off Freyberg Avenue.

With a packed food hamper, a picnic rug, sunscreen and a warm jersey, you will be set for a great time in Anderson Park on Saturday.

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