New Year's Eve festivities kick off in Tauranga

Hundreds of people have swarmed Tauranga's waterfront area as a family-orientated barbecue helps mark the end of 2016.

The New Year's Eve Family BBQ on the Waterfront began at 5pm with Tauranga Mayor Greg Brownless and several counillors serving up a free sausage sizzle. Families relaxed in the warm weather on picnic blankets and chairs.

Family fun evening at The Strand. Reed Exelby, 16 months, shows off some dance moves to dad. Photo/George Novak

Mr Brownless was joined by councillors Gail McIntosh, Larry Baldock, Terry Molloy, Catherine Stewart and Deputy Mayor Kelvin Clout. Candy floss, radio giveaways and coffee was also on offer.

''The idea is we want families to enjoy New Year's Eve and we think this sort of this attracts them,'' Mr Brownless said.

Tauranga man Tristan McLaughlin and friend Rob Murphy brought their families along to enjoy the evening, which will include a New Year fireworks display at the family-friendly time of 9.30pm.

''We are out of town for New Year's normally but this year we're at home,'' Mr McLaughlin said.

''We thought it'd be something different. This is good for families.''

Mr Murphy agreed.

''This is awesome. It changes the vibe of The Strand as well,'' Mr Murphy said.

The restaurants and bars along The Strand were packed heavy with people spilling out onto the footpath.

At 6.30pm the road was closed to traffic.

Families gathered on Tauranga's waterfront to help see in the New Year. Photo/George Novak