A majority outlasted a torrential downpour to see the fireworks finale of the show, which was held at the Queenstown Events Centre's main oval.
They enjoyed a line-up of nearly 200 performers from Queenstown and Wanaka that included men in tutus, a dancing Santa Claus and up-and-coming singers and dancers.
Director Simon Green said the weather had a major impact on turnout, which was well down on the 3000 expected and last year's rain-affected crowd of 2200.
‘‘It kept a lot of people away - it's a real shame.''
The weather differed markedly from the light rain forecast, but those who came were well prepared with umbrellas, tarps and ponchos.
Mr Green said it was the third year the show had been held outside, and it had rained every time.
‘‘You can't win.''
However the show had to go on, and he was particularly pleased by the contribution of the Wanaka performers.
‘‘We've been slowly growing the Wanaka contingent of the show, and they did superbly well.''
A crowd favourite was the men's ballet troupe - led by Queenstown Lakes Mayor Vanessa van Uden - which danced to Charlotte Graf's rendition of Gloria Gaynor's I Will Survive.
