Weekend Event: St Mary's fireworks gala returns with a bang

St Mary's Catholic School principal Ben Fuller is looking forward to the return of its popular fireworks gala this weekend. Photo/John Borren

One of Tauranga's most popular fireworks events is making a return after a year's hiatus.

The St Mary's Fireworks Gala will bring back the much-loved fireworks display to school grounds tomorrow. Principal Ben Fuller said the event was sorely missed last year when the school community decided against hosting the event while dealing with new health and safety rules and other events.

But now the trusty gala will be better than ever, Fuller said.

"Last year, we just had to step back and take stock. We've spent a lot of time researching and redeveloping the event. Now it's an event with more focus on the community and less about making a whole lot of money."

Fuller said community groups were invited to take part in the evening and there would be live performances from different school groups as part of the entertainment on offer. Professional pyrotechnics would ensure plenty of high-quality fireworks and stalls offering food would complete the evening out.

"Also, we've changed the day from Friday to Saturday to make it more of an extended Saturday afternoon family time," Fuller said.

"Hopefully we can put the event back on the map. We did have a bit of disappointment last year but that's been really contrasted by excitement now."

Fuller said despite focusing more on the community, the event was still the school's main fundraiser. This year, the school hopes to refit some of its playground equipment and returf its courts.

"Hopefully it will contribute to some of that."

Fuller said tickets were limited. The new health and safety rules meant the school could only allow a maximum of 4000 people on the school grounds. In 2015, the gala attracted 7000, he said.

Fuller paid tribute to the efforts of staff and parents who had worked much of the year on organising the return of the gala.

"Without the school community, it wouldn't happen. There's a group of dedicated parents who are part of the extended organising band. They've been working tirelessly on this."

Tickets are available from the school or at the gate on the night, but people are urged to get in early.

The gala's postponement date if it rains is November 18.

What you need to know

What: St Mary's Fireworks Gala

Where: School grounds, 13th Ave

When: From 5pm tomorrow. Fireworks expected from 8.45pm to 9pm.

Cost: Family pass (two adults and up to three children): $25; Adults (18 years and older): $10; Children: $5; Children under 5: free.