Harcourts Christmas Parade and 150th Concert

Harcourts Napier Christmas Parade

Date: Saturday, 7 December
Time: Parade starts at 1:00 PM
Location: Parade begins on Tennyson Street, moving down Emmerson Street

Parade Highlights:

• 1:00 PM: The parade kicks off with over 30 floats and displays, featuring pipe bands, marching groups, mascots, and Santa Claus himself!
• Hits Foam Cannon: A festive foam cannon will add excitement to the parade.
• Route: Starting at Tennyson Street, heading down Emmerson Street.

Napier 150th Commemoration Concert - Featuring ‘When the Cat’s Away’

Date: Saturday, 7 December
Time: 2:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Location: Napier Soundshell

FREE CONCERT

After months of anticipation and rehearsals, the legendary female supergroup of the '80s, When the Cat’s Away, will reunite for a special one-off concert to celebrate Napier’s 150th anniversary.

Concert Highlights:

• 2:30 PM: The festivities will kick off with local bands Spitfires and Deep Fried Funk as the opening acts, setting the stage for an unforgettable afternoon of live music and celebration.

• When the Cat’s Away takes the stage with original band members Debbie Harwood, Annie Crummer, Kim Willoughby, and Dianne Swann. Known for hits like ‘Melting Pot’, ‘Free Ride’, and ‘Asian Paradise’, the band will light up the Soundshell with nostalgic performances and iconic tracks.

• Supporting the band: When the Cat’s Away will be accompanied by a stellar nine-piece band, including former members of the original 1980s line-up. The ensemble includes:

  • Brett Adams – Guitar (The Mockers, Tim Finn)
  • Gary Verberne – Guitar (DD Smash, Legionnaires)
  • Barbara Griffin – Keys (Holidaymakers)
  • Mike Russell – Trumpet (Netherworld Dancing Toys, Midnight Oil)
  • Nick Atkinson – Saxophone (Supergroove)
  • Anthony Grey – Keys
  • Hayden Wharewaka – Drums
  • Brinnie Nepia – Bass
  • Gail Tipene – Backing Vocals
• Bring a picnic: slip slop slap, and enjoy a spectacular afternoon of music and celebration!
• Entertainment for all ages: Face painting, giveaways from Harcourts Real Estate, and food trucks.
• Make sure to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the parade and enjoy the unforgettable concert in the heart of Napier!

Road Closures for the Events:

Harcourts Christmas Parade Road Closures (7:00 AM – 2:00 PM)

• Clive Square East: From Dickens Street to Tennyson Street
• Clive Square West: From Emerson Street to Tennyson Street
• Emerson Street: From Hastings Street to Clive Square West
• Tennyson Street: From Milton Road to Hastings Street
• Hastings Street: From Tennyson Street to Dickens Street
• Herschell Street: From Browning Street to Emerson Street
• Emerson Street: From Hastings Street to Herschell Street
• Dalton Street: From Dickens Street to Tennyson Street
• Cathedral Lane: From Browning Street to Tennyson Street
• Browning Street: From Cathedral Lane to Hastings Street
• Shakespeare Road: Affected by parade routes.

Napier 150th Soundshell Concert Road Closures (2:00 PM – 7:00 PM)

• Herschell Street: From Browning Street to Emerson Street
• Emerson Street: From Hastings Street to Herschell Street
• Marine Parade: From Browning Street to Vautier Street
• Marine Parade Parking Precinct: From Albion Street north until Marine Parade
• Albion Street: From Hastings Street to Marine Parade (no entry from Hastings Street) – one-way street.

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