Celebrate the magic of fireworks in winter
Christchurch City Council Newsline: 3rd June 2026
Watch the sky light up in a galaxy of pyrotechnics at this year’s Winter Fireworks Spectacular.
The popular free event will be held at the New Brighton Pier and beachfront on Saturday 27th June 2026 – the weekend before the winter school holidays.
This year’s theme, ‘Dancefloor Anthems’ offers a sizzling soundtrack to accompany the fireworks, featuring playlist favourites like ‘Blinding Lights’ by The Weekend and ‘Rockafeller Skank’ by Fat Boy Slim.
“The display will be set off from the pier at around 7.30pm and it’s set to be an absolute humdinger this year,” says Christchurch City Council Events and Arts Manager Lucy Blackmore.
“People will be able to see the fireworks from as far away as Sumner and Mt Pleasant, not just at the beach. It’s a magical occasion and a special way to kick off our winter events season.”
The event base at the carpark north of the pier will be pumping with on-theme entertainment and a range of food vendors offering a variety of dinner, snack and drink options will be on site from 5.30pm to 8pm.
“We’re expecting a massive turnout this year with around 30,000 people likely to attend, so make sure you arrive early to secure a good spot!” says Ms Blackmore.
If the weather conditions are unsuitable on the day, the event will be postponed to Sunday 28 June.
Keep up to date with any changes by checking:
What not to bring
Please don’t bring your pet to the event or your own fireworks or drones.
If you live near New Brighton Beach: Check out some tips to make sure your pets feel settled during the fireworks.
The event zone is also smokefree, vape-free and an alcohol ban in the area includes any open bottles in the public space or private vehicles.
Transport options to get to Winter Fireworks Spectacular
Park and ride service
A park and ride service labelled ‘Fireworks,’ will be operating from Russell Street outside Eastgate Mall going to Oram Avenue New Brighton every 10 minutes between 4.50pm-5.30pm and every five minutes from 5.35-6.45pm. Normal bus fares apply.
The return trip to Eastgate Mall on the Route 5 bus service is free between 8pm and 8.30pm, leaving from Oram Avenue
Bus services
We’re again partnering with Metro to offer free bus rides home after the event. These will be on the Route 5 (bound for Hornby or Rolleston) and Route 60 (bound for Hillmorton) services leaving from the Oram Avenue bus stop. Additional buses on Oram Ave will take the 5 and 60 routes as far as the Bus Interchange. The free fares apply from 8pm to 8.30pm.
Road access and parking
To help manage traffic in the area, there will be road closures, parking restrictions and one-way traffic on designated streets in New Brighton between 4pm and 9.30pm.
Mobility parking is available to people with an official mobility sticker at the carpark south of the pier. For the easiest access, approach Marine Parade via Bridge Street.
Bike racks are available near the playground.
