Thousands enjoy Tauranga's National Jazz Festival

Verena Funnell and Robin Grierson are enjoying day one of the Downtown Carnival. Photo/ Andrew Warner

Verena Funnell and Robin Grierson are enjoying a dance in front of stage three down at The Strand.

The Rongotai College Band are playing to a crowded street and the sun is shining.

It's day one of the Downtown Carnival for the 56th National Jazz Festival and thousands of people are walking the street, listening to the bands or enjoying the waterfront cafes and bars.

The National Jazz Festival is an opportunity for the two friends to enjoy all things jazz, blues and to catch up with each other.

Funnell has travelled from Hamilton for the weekend and Grierson is a Tauranga local.

"There is always great music and you just can't beat live music," Grierson says.

She is looking forward to seeing Hipstamatics and Brilleaux take the stage this afternoon.

The pair has come to the festival for many years but this year's warm weather has made it even more enjoyable.

"I don't think there are as many people as last year which is better so you can move around," Funnell says.

Further down The Strand, Wellington High School's Island Birdie and In Limbo have started playing on stage 4.

People are stretched out on the grass near Hamilton St watching the young groups perform.

The Downtown Carnival continues tomorrow.