"The atmosphere here is incredible, real community and a family-friendly environment, so many people really having a great time from kids to adults alike."
Temperatures climbed to 30C mid-afternoon which was the hottest it had been in years at the event, but this did not dissuade anyone.
"The crowd was as big as ever with 15,000 to 20,000 in a great atmosphere and all well-
behaved."
Senior Sergeant Mike Stevenson said he was impressed with the crowd with no problems at all this year.
"I received a glowing report, it was a great, really well-behaved crowd. Everyone had a good time."
In past years there had been a few small issues with a tiny number of people in the crowd so he was very pleased with this year, Senior Sergeant Stevenson said.
Napier resident Vivienne Nielsen said she comes every year with the clients she works with at IDEA Services for a fun end-of-year treat.
"We're all gathering here for the celebration and will stay the whole time."
William Tauranga brought his whole family from Hastings to enjoy the event just as he had done for the last three years.
His children had loved the entertainment and music, he said.
Kaitlin Woodbury of Napier said she brought her younger brother along to listen to the great music and have a picnic.
"It's a good day out in the sun. It's nice to see everyone coming together and celebrating."
Rachael Nelson, also of Napier, came with a friend and each of their children for the music and great atmosphere.
"It's a good day out for the family," she said.
Because of the heat she was relieved her friend had brought a small beach tent that the children could sit in.
The headline act, Benny Tipene, and Auckland-based artist Omega Levine were particularly popular.
A surprise flash appearance was made by visiting band Brendon Thomas and the Vibe, who were in Hawke's Bay for another event.
Local bands Badger and Fraser Mack also entertained the crowd, and special guest and winner of the Facebook competition Xmas Factor, James Wright, took his prize of singing a song on stage.
Santa appeared on a Harley Davidson to makes sure the children were ready for Christmas.
A collection did the rounds during the event, with funds raised going towards Hawke's Bay Plunket's programme of providing car seats for infants.
The children's entertainment was popular, with a confidence course and long queues for face-painting.