A band of wet weather is dampening the well-laid plans for New Year's Eve across Tauranga, with community celebrations cancelled.

Tauranga City Council issued a statement about the cancellation on Saturday evening, December 30.

"After working closely with specialist meteorologists, we’re disappointed to make the tough call to cancel the Tauranga City Council 2023 New Year’s Eve community celebrations," says a council spokesperson.
 
"Following ever-changing weather forecasts, we sought advice which confirmed a heavy band of rain, possible thunderstorms and lightning during the time of our New Year’s Eve community events."
 
The New Year’s Eve community celebrations were due to take place across five locations in Tauranga between 6pm – 9.30pm, including:

• Gordon Spratt Reserve, Pāpāmoa
• The Waterfront, Tauranga City Centre
• Fergusson Park, Matua (Accessible/low sensory event 5.30pm – 6pm)
• Tauranga Racecourse, Greerton
• Blake Park, Mount Maunganui

"While we’re disappointed to announce the cancellation of the community events, we continue to work closely with our pyrotechnics provider to deliver fireworks displays planned for 9.30pm and midnight. 

"We’ll maintain a watchful eye on weather conditions for the pyrotechnic displays and if there are any changes we’ll provide an additional update tomorrow [Sunday]."
 
At this stage, residents and visitors are encouraged to watch the fireworks displays from their deck or backyard.
 
For more information go to tauranga.govt.nz/new-years-eve