13 January 2016

Media Release

Discover your Port this Auckland Anniversary at SeePort

Ports of Auckland will once again invite Aucklanders behind the iconic Red Fence and on to Captain Cook Wharf for their annual open weekend, SeePort, this Auckland Anniversary (Saturday, 30 January – Monday, 1 February).

“SeePort is a fantastic way for us to celebrate the City’s maritime heritage with our community, giving Aucklanders the chance to experience their port from behind the Red Fence” said Chief Executive Tony Gibson.

“We’re excited to build on 2015’s momentous celebration of Auckland’s 175th birthday with the addition of some new partners, activities and entertainment this year” he added.

Following on from a record breaking 2015 event, which saw 65,000 people visit the port over the three day festival, this year promises to be even bigger with a sunset performance by the Auckland Symphony Orchestra and fireworks display on the Sunday evening.

For the first time at SeePort, Aucklanders will have the chance to; take drop-in tours of the Port’s newest tugboat, Hauraki, experience heritage sailings* aboard the 80 year-old William C. Daldy steam tugboat and the Maritime Museum’s Ted Ashby, tour the Royal New Zealand Navy’s HMNZS WELLINGTON off-shore patrol vessel (Sunday only) and enjoy demonstrations from the New Zealand Cadet Forces.

Returning to the festival are the Port’s popular free boat, bus and Control Centre tours* as well as demonstrations and activities from maritime partners, including; SCOUTS New Zealand, Westpac Rescue Helicopter, New Zealand Customs Service and the New Zealand Maritime Museum. Heletranz will once again be offering helicopter rides at a discounted rate during the event.

*Bookings are essential for some tours. Call 0800 AK PORT (0800 25 7678) to book now!

To round out the festival, visitors will be treated to a summer carnival atmosphere with games, food stalls, live music and entertainment with TVNZ’s roving weatherman Sam Wallace hosting the three day event.

Ports of Auckland SeePort will be held at Captain Cook Wharf (opposite Britomart) on the waterfront from 10am to 6pm each day during Auckland Anniversary Weekend. The Sunset Symphony with the Auckland Symphony Orchestra and fireworks display will take place from6pm on Sunday. Captain Cook Wharf will open from 8am on Monday to allow for perfect viewing of the Ports of Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta and the spectacular Tugboat Race.

NOTES

• Images from SeePort 2015 can be viewed here
•
• Watch the SeePort 2015 video here

ENDS

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