Plenty of chances to make merry

Bars and clubs in Rotorua are holding a number of New Year's Eve events.

Hundreds of people, young and old, are expected to cram into Rotorua's bars and clubs this Monday to bring in the New Year.

Lava Bar will have two DJs performing on the night for their glow party. Bar manager Paul Marston said rave lights and UV cannons would be set up for the party and people were encouraged to wear white clothing.

He said everyone would be given a complementary drink at midnight.

There would be a cover charge of $5 before 10pm which would be raised later in the night to a price yet to be determined. Open from early evening to 3am.

Masks would be the order of the day at the Heaven and Hell Nightclub. Owner Pato Alvarez said the theme for New Year's Eve was a masquerade party, with the first 200 guests through the door receiving a free mask. People were also encouraged to wear their own masks.

There would be a $10 cover charge for the first 200 people, then it would be raised to $15.

The Pig and Whistle Historic Pub will be hosting a live band. Accounts manager Rosie Harding said the New Year's Eve part of the evening would run from 9.30pm to 1.30am. There would be a $5 door charge. From 9pm to 3am.

At Eleven53 (previously Pheasant Plucker), Soulfej will be the entertainment for the night. Owner Mereana Wilson said the bar was offering a number of events in the lead-up to the New Year as part of their Summer Jam sessions. They would be open from 10pm to 2am and there would be free entry.

Te Ngae's Colonial Tavern will have a two-piece band playing from 8.30pm until late. Manager Mark Williams said there would also be a few "little giveaways" and specials to help people enjoy the night.

Mr Williams said there would be no entry fee and all people needed to bring was a good attitude.

Brew Craft Beer Pub will have drink specials throughout the night.

They will have a DJ from 8pm and free entry.

The Rotorua RSA has Harley Cruz playing from 8am to 2am. They also have a free shuttle running between 6pm and 3am.

New Year's Eve events in Rotorua

• 
  Lava Bar - glow party from early evening until 3am. $5 before 10pm.
• 
  Heaven and Hell - masquerade party from 9pm to 3am. $10 for first 200 people.
• 
  Pig and Whistle - live band from 9.30pm. $5.
• 
  Eleven53 - Soulfej from 10pm to 2am. Free entry.
• 
  Colonial Tavern - two-piece band from 8.30pm. Free entry.
• 
  Brew - live DJ from 8pm. Free entry.