Top Tips and FAQs

  • This festival is set to go ahead in most winter conditions. As the saying goes, there’s no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing! So, dress warm, rug up and be prepared for the elements. Sometimes we will need to adapt the activities, to keep everyone safe. Keep up to date with any changes to the programme through Facebook or Instagram.

  • Parking is FREE in Greytown. With much of the activity taking place in Main Street, we recommend turning off Main Street, and finding a park on the streets either side. There is plenty of parking in East Street, West Street, and the roads off these streets. Please ensure you stay clear of driveways, and be considerate of pedestrians and residents when parking your vehicle.

  • The opening and closing nights of the Festival of Christmas will attract large crowds of people to Main Street. To ease congestion, maximise safety, and provide more space for crowds, we will be closing a section of both Main Street and McMaster Street during the busy times.  

    • Main Street (SH2) between Jellicoe Street and Hastwell Street - from 2pm – 9pm

    • McMaster Street, from Main Street to East Street - from 1pm – 9pm

    These streets will have artisan stalls, food trucks, entertainment and activities.

    DETOUR ROUTES (THESE ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

    • Southbound on Main Street (SH2) – Left onto Jellicoe Street – right onto East Street – right onto Church Street – rejoin SH2

    • Northbound on Main Street (SH2)– Left onto Hastwell Street – right onto West Street – right onto Kuratawhiti Street – rejoin SH2

    Residents in McMaster Street would still be able to access their driveways from East Street. However, due to crowds, we strongly advise you to avoid this if possible.

    Residents and businesses located within the closed section of Main Street will not be able to drive in or out of this area when the road is closed. We advise making alternative parking arrangements during this time.

    In addition, there will be some diversions in place around Mole Street for the Festive Night Glow on Saturday 18 July. More details to follow.

    The festival team would like to thank everyone for their patience during this time

  • There are public toilets located in the following locations:

    • The Town Hall – head into the foyer and turn right

    • Stella Bull Park – 2 portaloos located about 30 metres off Main Street entrance

    • 73 Main Street – next to Studio 73

    There are also toilet facilities available for patrons when dining at any cafes bars and restaurants in the village.

  • We are working towards being a Zero Waste Festival. Please help us reach our goal by disposing of your waste in the correct bins.  

    Another great way to help us reach our Zero Waste goal is to bring your own reusable cup, for any hot drink purchases and plates or containers. Some cafés and food vendors may provide discounts to thank you for your support.

  • Basic First aid is available at the Town Hall office on Friday and Saturday from 4-8pm. Look for a festival representative in a hi-viz vest to assist. If there is a medical emergency, please phone 111.  Both Wellington Free Ambulance and Greytown Fire Brigade have a base in Greytown.

    There are fire extinguishers located at The Town Hall and Stella Bull Park on Fridays and Saturdays from 4-8pm. Look for a festival representative in a hi-viz vest to assist.  

    There are defibrillators located outside the Town Hall, Greytown Fire Station and Fresh Choice Greytown.

  • The Festival of Christmas includes flashing lights and light projections that may affect those with light sensitivity. Animated projections will be on the Blackwell & Son’s building.

    We would also like to give advance notice of the fireworks display on closing night, Saturday 25 July, which may affect pets, so please keep them inside safe.

  • The Festival of Christmas is a one of the cosiest, happiest and joyful festivals in the country, right in the middle of winter.

    What makes it so special is that it remains completely free for all to attend. And we want to keep it that way.  

    If you love this festival, and would like to elevate your experience, purchase one of our festival packs or pins. Not only will you get some extra perks, but a portion from each pack or pin purchased will go towards the running costs of the festival, to ensure we can keep delivering the magic and, keep everyone safe. Click here to find out more.

  • Have a hazard to report or need to contact the organisers? Please contact the team on greytown@greytownvillage.com or if urgent, text Rachael 0272 612998

  • The collection point for Lost Property is Greyfriars Motel, located at 138 Main Street, Greytown

    If you have found something, please deliver it to their reception area, or give it to one of our volunteers (located around the Town Hall or Laneway Markets on Fridays and Saturdays 4-8pm), who will be wearing a hi-viz vest. 

    Lost something? Contact us at info@greyfriars.co.nz to see if it’s been found, and arrange a suitable time for collection. If you live out of town, small items can be couriered back to you for $6.

  • Village Shuttles are our preferred transport to and from Greytown events, particularly for people wanting to attend the Festival from outside Greytown.

  • We absolutely love dogs. But with large crowds expected, especially on the finale night, Saturday 25 July, which includes fireworks, we strongly recommend leaving them at home for their comfort and safety.