Cathedral Square NYE party to go ahead

Workers remove the cross from the top of the Christchurch Cathedral after the Boxing Day quakes. Photo / Simon Baker

Tomorrow night's New Year's Eve celebrations in Cathedral Square will go ahead as planned, the Christchurch City Council has announced.

Structural engineers yesterday accessed the buildings around the square following concerns of possible damage caused by a swarm of significant aftershocks on Boxing Day.

Their report said there was no uncontained damage to buildings around the square that could impact on public safety during the Treetech New Year's Eve Celebration.

Deputy Mayor Ngaire Button said she was pleased the event would be held as it was an important event for the city. Around 15,000 people are expected to attend the celebration.

"Many people look forward to this event every year and it's a tradition for many families to see in the New Year in the Square. After the Boxing Day aftershocks, there is more reason than ever for people to get together and celebrate the beginning of a New Year."

Cordons will remain around some of the buildings in Cathedral Square and people attending the event are asked to take care in these areas.

Treetech New Year's Eve begins at 9.30pm and is an alcohol-free family event.

- NZHERALD STAFF