Hundreds visit Hastings Family Fun Day at Bay Plaza

The event was attended by between 200 and 300 people, mostly families with young children enjoying the activities on offer. Photo / Supplied

Hundreds of people, mostly young families, attended the first Hastings City Business Association Family Fun Day at Bay Plaza.

The first-time event was held on November 15 as part of the business associations' 'Who's Hastings' campaign which highlights businesses in the CBD.

It was held at Bay Plaza, where a number of businesses are located, and Hastings City Business Association events and social media coordinator Emma Sey estimated between 200 and 300 people attended, mostly families with young children.

The free event had two bouncy castles, face painting, balloon twisting and hula hooping outside the plaza as well as live music inside.

"It went really smoothly and it was great to see lots of smiling, happy families enjoying the activities available," Sey said.

The free event had two bouncy castles among other family activities. Photo / Supplied

Various businesses had their own specials running on the day and the event was helpful to build awareness of the businesses in the plaza, Sey said.

The owner of the Bay Plaza shopping centre said the event was a "great success for retailers and public alike".

There was a steady stream of people and some retailers had a 30 to 50 per cent increase in sales.

James Landon, the owner of Plaza Books, said the event was a great way to kick off the Christmas selling season.

"The kids were obviously enjoying themselves and it gave us an even greater opportunity to showcase all the great kids' books that have just come in for Christmas than usual.

"The face painting and dance-off were a particular hit."

Sally-Ann Spender from Shake Shed & Co said the day was "filled with good vibes, relaxed customers and something for everyone".

Sey said the business association would consider holding the event again.

The next big event from the Hastings City Business Association is the BIG Retail Sale on December 19, with bargains from CBD retailers and free family entertainment.