The Wellington Dragon Boat Festival is celebrating its 40th anniversary this weekend. The event, which is one of 15 happening in the city, is expected to draw thousands of spectators. Over 100 teams, or around 2000 competitors, are participating in the festival.
The waterfront event is not only popular with competitors but also with spectators. The crowd is expected to fill the Wellington waterfront from Queens Wharf to Te Papa. However, the organizers have issued a warning about a scam that tricks people into paying to watch the event’s livestream. The official livestream is free and does not require any payment.
The scam came to light after fake links were circulated earlier this week, claiming to be the livestream of a funeral for MP Fa’anānā Efeso Collins. The festival organizers have advised people to avoid clicking on any links other than the official one.
Competitors from across the country and abroad have been training for two months to prepare for the races. The heats began on Friday, with the remaining ones taking place on Saturday, followed by the finals at 3:30pm. A youth competition and school finals will be held on Sunday.
Festival organizer Annika Green said that there’s a fantastic festival atmosphere on the waterfront. She added that the event has been buzzing with activity and it’s been a great day so far. Other events in the city this weekend include a Brazilian food and music carnival, a bagpipe festival, and a cricket test match between the Blackcaps and Australia.
