Sizzling up a Summer Storm of Free Events

Summer City brochures - your must-have guide to what's on during Wellington City's sizzling summer events season - hit the streets today.

Wellington Mayor Celia Wade-Brown says the summer ahead is packed full of entertainment and activities to suit all Wellingtonians.

"We've got a huge range of events from groundbreaking new work to old favourites," says Mayor Wade-Brown. "Many are free, most are very affordable and we're excited to launch Wellington's much-loved Summer City festival.

"The events, attractions and activities are city-wide - from great sporting and musical events on the coast to the gigs and movies at the gardens.

"Enjoy physical excitement like Splash 'n' Dash or chill out to a band in the Botanic Garden. With international events and community involvement, our capital's got it all for Summer 2012," says Mayor Wade-Brown.

Council Community Events Manager, Rebecca Hardie, says you can pick up a brochure from Council facilities such as libraries and pools.

"We also have them placed in stands at the Newtown, Metro, Chaffers and Thorndon New World supermarkets, as well as the airport, railway station and Council reception. If you want more detailed information and updates, the best thing to do is 'like' our facebook page at:

Summer City Wellington - Facebook website

"With funding support from New Zealand Community Trust, we've got a diverse mix of events on, so keep an eye on our facebook page - we'll be announcing more cool bands and artists on it in the coming months," says Rebecca.

"You'll also be able to read artist bios plus detailed event break-downs and festival programmes. This page is also the place to go if you have an inkling that poor weather is going to get in the way of an outdoor event."

Films by Starlight kicks off this year's Summer City on Wednesday (18 January), with the documentary Exit Through The Gift Shop (R).

"We're thrilled to announce this Academy Award-nominated Banksy documentary will open the series. Bring a picnic, your rug and dine in style in the beautiful outdoor setting of the Dell. The film starts around 8.00pm and we recommend people get there a bit earlier and settle in and enjoy the surroundings."

Other films in the Starlight series include: Bill Cunningham New York (PG), Kaikohe Demolition (PG) and Labyrinth (PG).

Summer City really swings into action on Anniversary Weekend with a busy range of events including old favourites Out in the Square (gay and lesbian fair), Capital E's Great Scavenger Hunt, the Birdman Competition and the Positively Pasifika Festival.

ASB has again generously come on board to support the ever-popular ASB Gardens Magic concerts in the Botanic Garden.

A great line-up has been confirmed for the nightly shows - which will run at the later dates of 14 - 25 March. These include The Roseneath Centennial Ragtime Band, singer-songwriter Justin Firefly and Irish band The Shenanigans.

Rebecca again reminds fervent gig-goers to keep an eye on the facebook page for further announcements.

ASB is also sponsoring the new 'Sunset Sessions' concerts to be held from 3 - 11 March in Shorland Park, Island Bay. This is a chance for families to grab a picnic and get down to the seaside for balmy evenings of music and a possible dip across the road at the beach. Already confirmed is Matthew Pickering with songs from his new album, The Burnside Church.

"This is only a taste of what's on offer for Summer City. There are more than 70 events and activities happening in and around Wellington over the next three months. We urge Wellingtonians to make the most of it."