Beach Hop magic hits Waihi with Warm Up party next week

Go Waihi chairman Kerry Single says the Warm Up Party is a big bonus for Waihi.

Thousands of car enthusiasts will swarm into Waihi next week for the first leg of the hugely popular Beach Hop rock and roll extravaganza.

The influx of money and people into Waihi for the annual Warm Up Party will be a ''massive bonus to our town'', says Go Waihi chairman Kerry Single.

The party brings in a big spend of between $300,000 and $500,000 to the Hauraki district with more than 12,000 people expected in the town on March 27, Kerry says.

''The visitors not only bring money into Waihi but they also stop in Hauraki district on the way through — Ngatea and Paeroa are rest stops before coming into Waihi,'' Kerry says.

''While here, visitors not only look at the fantastic display of cars but also take a bit of time to see the other things that Waihi has to offer.''

The Warm Up Party in Waihi is the first day of the rock and roll event as people make their way up to Whangamata for a further four days of festival fun (March 27-31).

Waihi residents and visitors have been experiencing a bit of Beach Hop magic for 11 years.

The Warm Up Party costs between $12,000 and $15,000 to put on.

Mayor John Tregidga says the Warm Up really puts Waihi on the map.

"Waihi's Warm Up Party brings a huge number of visitors to Waihi and it's also a great opportunity for the local community to get together. The economic benefits go well beyond those derived on the day.''

Up to 700 classic cars and hot rods cars are destined for Waihi. There will be road closures around the town centre. Bands will be on the street entertaining, there will be stalls and shops are open.

Parking will be at a premium on the outskirts of the town in the residential streets, Kerry says.

''Walking from there into town will be a must so come prepared for a five- to 10-minute walk. It will be worth it.''

Bring rock and roll attire, dancing shoes, hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, cameras and spending money. There are prizes for the best-looking gal and guy, and best-looking lass and lad too. The Gold FM ''drag race'' of mincing men will be on at 12.30pm.

The main Go Waihi Warm Up Party is in the town centre from 10.30am-3pm.