Are we ready for Balloons over Waikato?
Hamilton skies are set to fill with colour when Balloons over Waikato gets under way on March 19.
Headlined by the Nightglow, Balloons over Waikato will be held March 19-23 in Hamilton.
Each morning at Innes Common, crowds will gather to watch the balloons ascend from 7am. There are also balloon events in Waipa and Thames.
The big event is the Zuru Nightglow, a night of family fun at the University of Waikato fields. There are side show games, food trucks, live music and, when dark, the balloons all light up together followed by a spectacular fireworks show.
Waikato Independent student reporters took to the streets to ask people what they knew about the festival and if they planned to attend any of the events.
Lilly (pictured), attended the balloon festival in 2017:
“I was expecting hundred of balloons in the sky but I hardly found 3-4 balloons into the sky. The rides were also busy and expensive.”
Sachin, Hamilton:
“It’s been my first Balloons over Waikato festival and I’m excited about it. I can’t wait to see Hamilton from the bird’s eye angle.”
Caitlin, Waikato:
“I’ve been to the Night Glow a few times before but, no, I don’t think I’ll be going back this year.
“It was very busy and the rides were too expensive, especially buying tickets and waiting in the lines.”
Sarah Louise Erdinger (pictured), Raglan:
“I just know it’s an event. It sounds like an event that should not be missed”
Analise, Hamilton:
“I haven’t been to the Night Glow for a long time due to the traffic situation. I know lots of families go but I don’t have any kids.”
Craig, Hamilton:
“I’ve been in the past as a family thing but now my kids a little older it’s not something I’d be interested in going to.”
Suprajna (pictured), Hamilton, isn’t really sure what the event really is about and wants to go with friends:
“Well, I heard about it and I’m looking forward to seeing it.”
Jake, Hamilton:
“I’ve been here for about four years. I know nothing [about the festival], absolutely nothing at all.”
Lucas (pictured), Hamilton:
“What I like is the light show. They do different things with the lights and the balloons, it’s just, it looks really cool. I have never seen any of the other events except the Nightglow.”
Kendall, Raglan:
“Me and my friends are going to go. We will have a little picnic and watch it. I haven’t been before, I’ve just seen pictures and it looks amazing.”
She says a friend who took a balloon trip told her what a great experience it was. Has she thought about going on one too? “I would love too but I am kind of afraid of heights.”
