Ticketing manager Vicki Kestila said the turnout was "fabulous", despite the rather cold and wet weather.
"The rain has not stopped people coming, which is great — we've had buses and trains from town shipping people in right to our doorstep."
The event had more than 26 food vendors, a well-stocked bar, five bands providing live music, a busy children’s fishing competition, cooking demonstrations and a very busy club for children hosted by entertainer Suzy Cato.
"It's so great for the community and it gives volunteers an opportunity to fundraise for their groups and causes," Ms Kestila said.
About 3500 people attended the festival.
Among the stalls was the Harbour Rugby Club stand where pāua patties were being served up for the long line of people stretching around the building and out the door.
Harbour Rugby Club committee member Glenn Holland said the pāua pattie mix was a secret family recipe.
"Well, that’s what the boss tells me — I think there are random changes depending on the weather."
The stand attracted a steady stream of customers and the cooks had already gone through 60kg of the mix before noon.
"We're on the seventh bucket out of 12, so we've sold 60 out of 100 kilos so far,
"It's gone really well. It’s started really well and it’s been a fantastic event," Mr Holland said.
"My wife and kids are here, and my mate Ant here has his two daughters — oh, and there’s Walter here too.
"The Hill family as well, so you've got the Holland family, the Hill family, the O'Neill family and a Walter."
The pāua was donated for the pattie mix by Harbour Fish as part of its club sponsorship.
