Handy things to know about the Courtenay Carnival
It's only a few days until New Year's Eve - and it's the first time the Courtenay Carnival will come to life! It would be wonderful if inner-city residents got behind this event - coming along on your way to or from the waterfront to be part of the fun - and even going the extra mile to dress up (there's a big prize!). Here's some recent information about the Carnival.
ROAD CLOSURE
Courtenay Place will be closed between Cambridge Terrace and Tory Street from 6am on Tuesday until 6am on New Year's Day. Blair and Allen Streets will also be closed.
ABOUT THE CARNIVAL
Courtenay Carnival: The Biggest Dress-Up Party in Aotearoa!
Get ready for Wellington’s First New Year’s Eve Carnival!
This vibrant all inclusive dress up event is set to become one of the city’s annual NYE draw cards bringing thousands of people to celebrate in style - combining world class hospitality with a diverse lineup of entertainment, outdoor dining, and show stopping acts to ring in the New Year.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Entertainment: Starting with family focused performers, characters & activities, followed by live bands, DJs, circus acts, drag queens, roving performers & some of New Zealand’s top music artists. This will be an all Inclusive community event.
Street Festival & Outdoor Dining: Courtenay Place will transform into a lively strip with local businesses expanding their dining areas onto the street.
Best Dressed Competition: Embrace the theme and compete for the best costume prize. The more creative and extravagant, the better!
Safe and Secure:
With controlled entry points, licensed outdoor areas, and crowd management, you can party with peace of mind knowing safety is a top priority.Celebrate Wellington’s Spirit:
This event isn’t just about New Year’s Eve—it’s about celebrating Wellington’s unique spirit and creating a new tradition. Be part of The Biggest Dress-Up Party in Aotearoa and start your year by bringing together creativity, diversity, excitement, and unforgettable memories.
Let’s make history together!
For more information contact: courtenayprecinct@gmail.com
COURTENAY CARNIVAL - KIDS ENTERTAINMENT
Get ready for an afternoon full of fun and magic from 4pm, brought to you by Enchanted Entertainment!
Your kids will love meeting their favourite princesses and superheroes for epic photo ops and hugs.
The excitement kicks up with a special Elsa and Anna Frozen show, where the magic of Arendelle comes to life on stage with live singing and dancing!
Plus, Spider-Man and Batman will be leading superhero training, showing your little heroes how to unleash their powers!
The fun continues with awesome games that'll have everyone laughing and cheering, and of course, the lolly scramble—sweets galore! At our glam makeover station, kids can transform into a sparkling mermaid, a magical unicorn, or a whimsical fairy! It’s going to be an unforgettable day of fun and fantasy, so don’t miss out!
THE DRESS UP!
We're counting down the days until the biggest dress-up party in Aotearoa.
Get your best carnival costume on and head down to Courtenay Place this New Year's Eve to be in to win. The person with the most creative and extravagant costume could be walking away with a massive $2000 worth of vouchers to spend in Courtenay Precinct. it stand out
THE FOOD
Fuel up at the Courtenay Carnival at some of Courtenay Places most iconic and beloved hospitality venues.ake it stand out
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
THE MUSIC
The programme is coming soon!
INFORMATION FROM THE WELLINGTON CITY COUNCIL
The WCC website
https://wellington.govt.nz/news-and-events/events-and-festivals/new-year
We encourage event goers to travel on foot from Courtenay Place to the waterfront via Tory Street, and from the waterfront to Courtenay Place via Taranaki Street.”
More information:
https://wellington.govt.nz/news-and-events/news-and-information/our-wellington/2024/12/courtenay-place-staying-safe-for-the-summer
Rubbish collection
There will be earlier collections for rubbish, recycling and cardboard on Tuesday 31 December.
Residents have been advised to put out items to be collected by 10am if within the street closure cordon of lower Courtenay Place (up to Tory Street), Blair Street and Allen Street. Residents on the block of Courtenay Place between Taranaki Street and Tory Street, and Tory Street from Wakefield Street to Forresters Lane are also welcome to put their rubbish out before 10am.
https://wellington.govt.nz/rubbish-recycling-and-waste/when-to-put-out-your-rubbish-and-recycling/city-cardboard-collection or https://wellington.govt.nz/rubbish-recycling-and-waste/when-to-put-out-your-rubbish-and-recycling/suburban-and-inner-city-collections
Street Closure for Courtenay Place
From Cambridge Terrace to Tory Street including Blair and Allen Street
Closure period: 6 AM Tuesday to 6 AM Wednesday.
Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout
Buses will be redirected down Kent/Cable and Cambridge/Wakefield St and Metlink will publish information
Stages and equipment will be cleared by 6 AM on Wednesday when the road closure ends.
On-Site Services
Headquarters: Located at the old Chemist at 43 Courtenay Place, serving as an information point for the public. Police are welcome to use this space as their base.
Increased Police presence
Wellington Free Ambulance (WFA): Stationed down Blair Street.
Take10: Regular location on Taranaki Street.
Security Presence: Security teams will be active throughout the event.
Hapai Ake: Will be around the city throughout the evening (operating throughout the summer holiday period, excluding stat days) focused on the perimeter of both events.
Alcohol-Free Zone
While bars will be offering alcohol, this is not to be consumed outside of the venues as Courtenay Place will remain an alcohol-free zone throughout the Courtenay Carnival.
See the alcohol-free zone here: Wellington Liquor Ban Area. Police are responsible for enforcing this ban.
