FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I bring my dog?
No unfortunately Opunake main beach where the Beach Carnival is being held is a dog-free zone at all times. If you are visiting Opunake for the weekend you could still bring your dog - there are plenty of spaces that they would love to play at - including Middleton Bay which is just over from the beach carnival.
Where do I park?
Please park up on any of the streets above the entrance to Opunake Beach. Access down to the Carnival is a gently sloping well sealed road which is ideal for pedestrian use.
In addition, a shuttle service will operate for a gold coin donation.
Stallholders will have access to set up their stalls and then the road will be closed to ensure pedestrian safety throughout the day.
What time does everything happen on the day?
The Opunake Beach Carnival starts at 10am and the Baby Tots competition is the first entertainment up on stage shortly after 10 am.
Stallholders will be set up for the 10am start and will be open throughout the day.
The timing of the Big Dig is dependant on high tide but announcements will be made on the day about that, Big Dig is scheduled to be at midday for the 2021 Carnival
There will be quick-draw raffles drawn on the hour from 10am - 2pm.
Many of the stalls and activities will conclude at 3pm.
What time does the event go until?
Approximately 3pm but people often stay on well past that to enjoy a dip in the ocean.
Is alcohol allowed on the beach?
No - Opunake Beach is an alcohol free area. Non alcoholic drinks will be available for purchase from various stallholders or you may bring your own.
Is there a shuttle available down the hill?
The 2022 event will feature a shuttle in operation taking carnival-goers up and down the hill from Opunake Beach. This will be for a gold coin donation, with donations going towards beach development projects.
What should I bring?
Some of the handy things to bring along with you would be...
* A blanket to sit on
* Togs and towel
* Sunscreen
* Hats/ sun shade
* A picnic (although plenty of food will be available to purchase)
* Some cash
How do I get involved?
The carnival is free admission so if you just want to show up on the day and enjoy the event then that's all you have to do - come along!
If you want to be a stallholder, enter the beauty competitions, provide entertainment or assist with the event here's how.
Is Eftpos available?
While some stallholders will have eftpos, many do not. Please bring along some cash on the day. There are two ATM machines in Opunake, one at either end of Tasman Street.