New Year’s Eve bash hits winning formula

Organisers of the Highlife NYE Experience held at the Matakana Country Park on New Year’s Eve are already making plans for next year’s event.

More than 9000 people attended the 13-hour music and dance spectacular, which raised money for the Matakana Fire Station, Omaha Surf Life Saving and Matakana School.

Highlife Entertainment director Adam Bennett says on all fronts, it was a “very, very successful” night.
“There were no arrests and no drink driving offences, and people enjoyed themselves,” he says. “There were only 600 cars at the event, which means most people used the buses provided or made alternative arrangements. We invested a lot of money in the traffic management plan and felt it paid off.”

Security was another area that was tight. A total of 120 security staff were employed and the organisers also contributed to additional security and clean-up costs at Omaha.

“We feel the event brought a lot of New Year’s Eve parties, which would normally be spread all over the district, to one venue. This meant they could be safe and fun.”
Warkworth’s Sgt Bede Haughey, who had six to eight officers stationed at the event, agreed that the event had been well-organised.

“It was a good natured crowd and there were no real incidents of concern,” he said. “But if it is repeated, we would like to see the organisers do something about the amount of glass at the event, as there were injuries, and the amount of foot traffic it generated before and after the event. The roads around the Country Park aren’t pedestrian friendly.”

Despite having received offers from other venues interested in hosting next year’s event, Adam says he is committed to Matakana.
“I chose this area because I personally love coming here. It’s got everything we need and the team at the Country Park, local police and security services, and other locals were great to work with. It’s a winning formula that can only get better.”

More than 60 performers entertained in seven areas of music on the night. Also on the programme was an air show by the Warbirds and fireworks.

Adam says the next event is likely to feature an expanded air show, additional entertainment and the increased involvement of local businesses. He is also hoping to identify accommodation options for visitors earlier.