In a major coup for the city, Stan Walker has agreed to perform his first free New Zealand concert in Hamilton – where he attended high school before moving to Australia.
It will be an all day alcohol-free event in Garden Place, which this summer has attracted large numbers of people enjoying a range of organised activities as part of the “Summer in Garden Place” programme.
Stan Walker will sing from a stage on the Victoria St edge of Garden Place, during the evening concert, which starts at 5pm (Saturday 6 February).
In the past, city celebrations have been at Innes Common, and it is hoped a move to the city will attract a more youthful and family oriented crowd who will enjoy a festive, multicultural day.
Hamilton Waitangi Day 2010 is organised by the city’s urban Maori authority Te Runanga o Kirikiriroa, with the support of Council.
“Our team is really excited to bring together an exciting youth stage programme and multi-cultural community group performances. The programme will again have lots to offer families and young people from a broad cross-section of the community,” said event co-ordinator Hurihia Taitapanui.
Planning is well underway for the event, which is expected to attract the largest crowd seen in Garden Place for many years.
There will be road closures from 5pm in the central city to manage traffic flow, including parts of Victoria St, Caro St, and Alexander St. The Downtown Plaza car park, under Civic Square, will be closed for entry at 5pm. New Zealand movie Whale Rider will screen in Garden Place at 8.30pm as part of the Classic Hits Outdoor Cinema Series.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Name:
Monica Holt
Designation:
Communication Manager
Tel (Direct):
07 838 6434
Mobile:
021 815 604
PROGRAMME:
7am: Raising of the flags on the SkyCity building.
10 am: Powhiri.
11 am - 3 pm: Youth performance programme and activities on the Garden Place stage in front of Hamilton Central Library.
3 pm - 5 pm: Community group and multi-ethnic performances
5pm: Road closures
5.30 - 8.30 pm: Free concert – including headline act by Australian Idol winner Stan Walker