Get ready for an epic New Year’s Eve in Tauranga! Tauranga City Council is hosting five free family-friendly community celebrations in the CBD, Greerton, Pāpāmoa, Mount Maunganui and Matua on December 31.

TCC venues and events manager Nelita Byrne promises a night of fun, featuring local music, entertainment, food trucks, incredible fireworks displays and more!

The events will take place at Tauranga Waterfront, Tauranga Racecourse at Greerton, Gordon Spratt Reserve at Pāpāmoa, Fergusson Park at Matua, and Blake Park at Mount Maunganui from 6pm.

“Celebrations will close with a fireworks display at 9.30pm at each event, apart from Greerton where a laser light show will take place due to horses that live at Tauranga Racecourse.

"All community events are alcohol and smoke-free.”

Nelita says the events offer a great opportunity to get the family together, pack a picnic and enjoy an evening in the city’s beautiful open spaces.

“But it’s not just about the party – it’s about fostering a sense of belonging within our community.”

Council invites everyone to the celebrations, with Nelita saying a dedicated accessible and low sensory event will be on 5.30pm-6pm at Fergusson Park before the main event.

“This ensures everyone, regardless of their preferences or sensitivities, can fully enjoy the celebrations.”

With parking limited at the sites, event-goers are asked to think about carpooling, cycling or walking to their closest celebration!

This year people are urged to think sustainably and minimise their waste too.  

“We’re encouraging people to bring their own cups and water bottles and use council-provided recycling bins on-site,” says Nelita.

Free water bottle refilling stations will be available at all sites too.

 “And please remember – dogs are not permitted at these events due to large crowds and scheduled fireworks.”

Head to the My Tauranga Facebook page for information on individual celebrations and to see who is performing at each event.

“New Year’s Eve isn’t just a goodbye to the old – it’s a roaring welcome to the new with your favourite people and the entire community.

"Don’t miss out on the excitement!”