Fire and Light, River and Sky
The annual Walter Findlay’s Fire in the Sky firework extravaganza will take place again on 1 January 2015 to celebrate
the first day of the New Year.
“This is a free family-friendly community event celebrating the start of the New Year,” says event director Kathy
Sheldrake.
“People will be treated to spectacular local talent and a spectacular display of fire and light on the rivers and in the
sky, plus a chance to be part of the new ‘Gizzy Wave’.”
The live music line-up for the night will include local talents The Oxymorons and MO2s beginning at 6pm, along with
water action displays, free face painting, a children’s merry go round, bouncy castle and a variety of food vendors.
“We don’t want to give too much away, but get down early for the best spot on the bank. The fireworks display will
commence when it gets dark, around 9.30pm,” says Ms Sheldrake.
The expected turn out is estimated to be 6,000 – 8,000.
Traffic measures and event signs will be in place on the night to ensure safety when arriving and departing from the
event.
The Esplanade between Rutene Road and Gladstone Road will be one way only from 12noon, entering from Rutene Road only.
This will be manned to assist with angle parking.
The Peel Street & Reads Quay Traffic lights will be turned off and this intersection controlled, with no straight through traffic from
Peel Street Bridge starting from around 9.45pmuntil traffic flows have returned to normal volumes.
Walter Findlay Ltd has sponsored Fire in the Sky each New Year’s day since 2002. As a family business, Walter Findlay
decided the event was an opportunity to give back to the community and express their gratitude for the district’s
support.
Mayor Meng Foon would like to thank the Findlay family, David and Nickkie, for their generous support, “their
contribution has a remarkable positive impact on the community, as this is now an iconic event in Gisborne.”
Fire in the sky is one of the only family orientated events held on New Year’s day in New Zealand and is proudly
supported by Gisborne District Council.
Council reminds people that the Marina boat ramp will be closed 1pm-11pm for the Fire in the Sky event on 1st January.
This is part of their water-permit for the water entertainment pre-firework display.
ENDS