Third time was the charm for crowds at Kaiteriteri Beach on Friday, as the annual fireworks display finally lit up the night sky.
The show, launched from a barge on the water, was originally scheduled for New Year’s Eve. However, strong winds and choppy seas forced organisers to postpone the event until 9.30pm on January 3. A mix of last-minute technical issues and rough conditions meant the display was delayed again.
Technician Zarah Green explained online that one of the barge’s engines failed, and with only one engine working, it was unsafe to proceed.
“It’s a really unfortunate set of circumstances but with explosives, we have to make decisions based on safety first.”
The event was rescheduled for Friday, January 9, and this time everything went to plan, drawing plenty of enthusiastic feedback from spectators.
The fireworks have been funded by the Wirtschafter family for more than a decade.
Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve marketing and communication manager Jackie Scott says the event gives a “real presence” on New Year’s Eve, bringing locals and visitors together and infusing the festivities with joy.
“The air was warm, people were laughing... it’s such a vibe.”
She says the whole community is grateful for the Wirtschafter family’s generosity.
“On behalf of the reserve and the community and the many families who have enjoyed it for so many years, we do want to say a big thank you.”
