We’re kicking off the New Year’s Eve celebrations early with a special kids’ event that's one huge disco-themed party that your whānau won’t want to miss. Join the fun without having to stay out late.

The free event is headlined by Trubie-Dylan Smith, who will lead the celebrations with songs and kid-friendly entertainment.

DJZ will be there to bring the beats, and That Dance Studio will bring some talented young dancers to the stage.

To wrap up the festivities, there will be a mock countdown at 7pm, complete with confetti canons.

A range of food trucks will be onsite, selling yummy kai and drinks.

How to get there
  • Driving? The Botanic Gardens Armagh Street car park will be closed to incoming traffic from 2.45pm. Drop off point is on Rolleston Avenue, near Christ’s College. Use our interactive map to easily find central city parking: https://bit.ly/34y1nuW(external link)(external link)
  • Biking or scootering? Bike stands will be located inside Hagley Park. Scooter parking zones are on Park Terrace.
  • Mobility parking will be on Chester Street West (off Park Terrace). A mobility pass must be visible to gain access.

All you need to know
Not long to go now. Here's everything you need to know about the NYE Kids Countdown....
  • This is a FREE, all ages event
  • Entertainment will kick off around 4pm
  • There is a liquor ban in place for Hagley Park
  • You can bring in your own food
  • This is a smoke-free, vape-free and alcohol free event
  • For quick entry, don't bring a bag as bags may be searched on entry
  • Blankets & chairs welcome
  • Please keep your animals at home
  • Drop off point on Rolleston Avenue, near Christ's College
  • Mobility parking on Chester Street West (a pass must be visible)
  • Bike stands will be inside Hagley Park
  • Scooter parking zones are on Park Terrace
  • Metro buses are running on the Tuesday timetable

What you can and can't bring in

Before entry, all eventgoers must agree to a bag search. 

You can't bring in

  • Beverages of any kind, including alcohol
  • Illicit drugs
  • Dangerous goods and weapons
  • Animals (except service animals)
  • Offensive signs or banners
  • Gang insignia
  • Glass
  • Drones
  • Bags larger than 30cm x 30cm
  • Scooters and bikes

You can bring in

  • Small chairs and blankets
  • Self-packaged non-commercial food items (non-liquid items)
  • Sunscreen
  • Prams and baby products
  • Cameras (personal use only)
  • Empty water bottles can be filled on-site