The Rotorua District Council's controversial team building evening went ahead without a hitch at the Energy Events Centre last night.
About 500 council staff were expected to attend the Rotorua District Council's "Celebrate Success" evening, reported to have cost the council $10,000.
The Daily Post had received a number of letters to the editor regarding the event, with many saying the council should be using the money on other projects.
Chief executive Peter Guerin said in a statement to staff the event was the first to be held by the council and was an alternative for staff who had missed out in recent years because council had cancelled three staff functions, including Christmas parties, because of economic pressure.
The event included staff member-of-the-year awards, entertainment and a presentation from senior council staff on the council's future direction and focus on economic growth.