Central Band Of The Royal New Zealand Air Force Picnic In The Park

To celebrate its 75th Anniversary the Central Band of the RNZAF will tour across the centre of the North Island performing concerts for school children and the general public. Audiences in Wanganui, Palmerston North, Dannevirke, Waipukurau, Napier and Wairoa will experience the unique sound and sight of this 60 piece military band. The final concert in conjunction with Wairoa District Council is a free outdoor event aimed at families and the local community.

In 1937 the Central Band of the RNZAF first paraded for the Coronation of King George the 6th, then shortly after for the opening of the Wellington Railway Station. It has performed to thousands of people over the years including as a full time band during World War two when it toured Australia and the Pacific Islands. The band continues to play an important role in Wellington at State ceremonies and military services and occasions, including the formal Opening of Parliament.

PICNIC IN THE PARK will be an opportunity for the whole community to bring their picnics along and enjoy a concert which will be packed with "something for everyone". It will be a spectacular occasion with bagpipes, vocalists, brass, saxophones, woodwind and drummers. The music performed will range from classics and traditional to jazz and modern hits, from Bach to Glenn Miller!

The Central Band of the RNZAF is delighted to give the people of Wairoa a free outdoor concert.

The concert will also pay a tribute to those who have served in the military. "The tradition of a military band can evoke memories and remembrances for past servicemen and women, and their families" said the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s Director of Music, Squadron Leader Owen Clarke.

What: Picnic in the Park – RNZAF 75th Anniversary Tour

Where: War Memorial Park, Hunter-Brown Street, Wairoa

When: 5:30pm – 7pm Saturday 18th February 2012

Tickets: FREE CONCERT


CENTRAL BAND OF THE RNZAF 75TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR SCHEDULE

Mon 13 Feb Wanganui

Royal Wanganui Opera House

Tue 14 Feb Palmerston North

Regent on Broadway

Wed 15 Feb Danniverke

Danniverke Town Hall

Thu 16 Feb Waipukurau

Central Hawke’s Bay College Hall

Fri 17 Feb Napier

Napier Municipal Theatre (lunchtime concert).

Sat 18 Feb Wairoa

War Memorial Park, Hunter Brown Street, Wairoa
* All concerts at 7.00pm except Napier (12 midday) and Wairoa 5.30pm.