24-hour Harry Potter marathon a 'big sleepover'

The cantankerous text book from Harry Potter (appearing as a harmless cake here) is just one of the delights awaiting fans at a Harry Potter movie marathon in Wellington. Photo/Anton Sounes http://www.asounesphoto.com

Kiwi Harry Potter fans will Slytherin to line at Wellington's Roxy Cinema next month for a 24-hour movie marathon.

The spellbinding marathon will play all eight Harry Potter movies in a row, with small breaks in between for people to eat, go to the bathroom, and play games.

The theatre will be packed with various Harrys, Rons and Hermiones, probably a spattering of Dobbys and Dumbledores, and the odd Snape, as movie-goers break out their best costumes for the event.

Head of marketing Erica Brooks said the cinema had held similar events in the past, including a Lord of the Rings marathon which people flew in from overseas for.

Attendees would be provided with three meals, as well as snacks and limitless tea and coffee, although it was expected some people would doze off.

"It's going to be just like a big sleepover," Brooks said.

"Die-hard fans are the ones that stay awake."

Dobby, otherwise known as Anton Vegar, won the costume competition at Roxy Cinema's Fantastic Beast and Where to Find Them night. Photo/Anton Sounes http://www.asounesphoto.com

There will also be opportunities for fans to change out of their wizard robes and into pyjamas. They are encouraged to bring pillows, bean bags and blankets to get comfy.

"My aim is to have a quidditch match after, maybe, the fourth film," Brooks said.

There would also be themed snacks such as butterbeer and cauldron cakes, and other Harry Potter-themed games.

"It's going to be a little bit like a fun boarding school experience."

A wandmaker would even be attending and selling her wands in the breaks.

The event is being held on March 25-26, and tickets are available online.