From a ride in a helicopter to a spin in an inflatable ball, there were plenty of activities at the Brighton Gala Day yesterday.
Held under sunny skies, the annual event drew thousands of people to Brighton Domain.
Mosgiel resident Kerry-Anne Duncan was among those waiting to take a helicopter ride.
It would be her first time in the air, as she had never flown in a plane nor a helicopter.
She was looking forward to taking in the view from above — and was also a little nervous.
Encouraged by her partner, who would fly with her, the decision to take a ride was spontaneous.
Dunedin resident Natalie Langley said she came along to the gala every year, and the "amazing" weather was a bonus.
She was with a group of friends, including children eager to inspect the emergency vehicles open to the public to see inside.
"The kids always love the ambulance and the fire truck," she said.
Brighton resident Kerry Roberts said the gala made for a great day out, and the interactive science stall run by Tuhura Otago Museum had been the biggest hit with her sons.
"It’s a community day to feature the fact that Brighton is a great place to live in.
"We’ve been running the event for 28 years, it’s all about supporting community groups, particularly the Brighton Surf [Life Saving] Club and the Green Island Lions."
A gold coin entry donation was encouraged, and Mr Weatherall said he was proud the event was still free despite increasing compliance costs.
"It’s a really fun day.
"The satisfaction for the organisers ... is to watch the smiles and the happy faces come and go."
