Back with a bang: Fireworks and rock for NYE celebrations

The Octagon will once again be the place to be on 31 December 2026, with an evening of entertainment for all ages building towards a spectacular midnight fireworks display in the heart of the city.

The Rock Tenors and Rock Divas will take centre stage, fresh from a highly successful national tour, bringing their big voices, high-energy performances and much-loved rock anthems to Dunedin for a night of celebration.

The entertainment kicks off from 5pm, with plenty to keep families entertained early in the evening, including popular children’s entertainer Rainbow Rosalind.

Younger partygoers can enjoy their own moment of midnight magic, with a Kids’ New Year’s Eve countdown at 8pm, giving families the chance to celebrate together before the little ones head home.

Then, as the clock ticks over to midnight, fireworks will light up the city centre in a spectacular display.

Enterprise Dunedin Events Team Leader Dan Hendra says he is excited to see the enhanced event once again taking centre stage in the city.

“New Year’s Eve is about coming together and celebrating, and we’re really excited to bring that energy to the Octagon again this year.

“The return of fireworks, together with the Rock Tenors and Rock Divas, will ensure this year’s celebrations goes off with a bang, creating a New Year’s Eve that has something for everyone.

“We want people to come into the city, bring their friends and whānau, enjoy the entertainment and be part of the excitement as we count down to 2027 together,” he says.

New Year’s Eve in the Octagon

• Thursday 31 December 2026 
• Entertainment from 5pm 
• Kids’ New Year’s Eve countdown – 8pm 
• Fireworks – midnight

More Information:  New Years Eve 2026 - Dunedin City Council

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