Meridian Energy have yet again joined with Christchurch City Council Leisure to create one of New Zealand’s most ambitious firework displays, placed in the beautiful setting of New Brighton Pier.

Anthony Leyland, with Firework Professionals aims to present a stunning show, with 15 minutes of firing, and fireworks that utilize the reflective qualities of the water and wet sand that New Brighton will provide.

"The body of the show is designed around well-known and well-loved effects such as rounds of tiered fireworks, chrysanthemums and willows. " He says. " The whole show will be blended to music form Pink Floyd, Wagner, Handel, Portishead and Prodigy. Even the score from ‘The Piano’ will be heard! Of course there will also be a few surprises. We’ve got something in mind that has never been tried in Christchurch before."

The entire show will be broadcast live on the Lite FM frequencies of 94.5FM or 1260AM, creating a wonderful opportunity for audience members to tune into their radio or walkman, and create an atmosphere to enjoy the fireworks from, wherever they may be.

Entertainment prior to the show begins around 3pm with thrill rides on the foreshore, as well as a ‘child friendly’ fair in New Brighton Mall. There will be children’s entertainment and music, as well as a variety of food stalls.

A Meridian Energy backed Family FunFest starts at 7pm. Here the children will be able to have their faces painted, be entertained or enter the Meridian Chalk drawing competition.

Meridian Energy spokesperson Alan Seay said that Meridian Energy had added even further value to the experience that the Fireworks Extravaganza gives Christchurch families.

"Families wanting to be at Brighton early can sometimes find the wait for the Fireworks rather long. By introducing the Family FunFest Meridian Energy wanted to make the evening more fun for everybody."

Providing a stress-free transport and parking alternative, free shuttle buses to the event will be available from a variety of city locations, and buses will leave Oram Avenue in New Brighton at 10.15pm, after the show finishes. The buses are popular, so patience is encouraged, and buses will continue to service the area as long as passengers are waiting.

Road closures will be in place from 6.00pm and gold coin parking is available at Rawhiti Domain off Keyes Road. The South Ramp parking area is for the use of Operation Mobility Card holders only. Traffic delays are possible after the event, and using alternatives to Pages Road are suggested.

Meridian Energy and LiteFM , along with Christchurch City Council Leisure anticipate a night of fun filled, safe, family entertainment. Attendees are encouraged to dress warmly, observe safety regulations, and are asked not to bring their own fireworks to the show.