Booze out as family fun hits park

A new family friendly concert will see even the corporate boxes at Napier's McLean Park remain alcohol free on Friday.

The inaugural Easter Fest, featuring 2009 Australian Idol winner Stan Walker, aimed to provide a safe place for children and their parents alike.

"It's really important for people to show their support so we can make it an annual thing. It's not just a Napier event, it's a Hawke's Bay event," organiser David Trim said.

"[Napier City] Council is really excited about it. To have an internationally recognised artist is fantastic, we just really need to get the numbers."

Liquor bans would be imposed across the entire venue including corporate boxes, something Napier City Council regulatory services manager Mike Webster said was a, "fairly rare occurrence".

"Our primary concern with an event like that would be a consent for noise control," he added.

Easter Fest would also include performances from local bands Stolen Records and Colour Sway from St Johns College.

"We even have some finalists from New Zealand's Got Talent, in particular the Hit Men," Mr Trim said. "It will be an action-packed night, finishing with a massive laser light display."

Organisers were lucky to book Walker, as his involvement with the up-coming TV show X Factor New Zealand meant he was often on the road or in the air.

"He's a very busy man at the moment, with New Zealand X Factor and other projects he's got going on in Australia.

"We sought him out because he covers a few generations, it's not just the young ones who like his music but their parents too. He's also just an all round nice chappy."

Ten people get to meet Mr Walker up close, back stage, with six radio and two Facebook giveaways up for grabs.

Tickets are $20 each or $45 for a family of four, available from the website dashtickets.co.nz or on the gate from 5.30pm. Entertainment from 7pm to 10pm