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The earthquake in Gisborne this month may have done the city some good with more people heading there for a large music festival to see in the New Year than last year.
Rhythm and Vines Festival organiser Mara Weiss told NZPA just over 15,000 people were attending the festivities tonight, which was up slightly from last year.
There had been no artist cancellations or requests for ticket refunds after the quake, she said.
People had shown up earlier than in previous years.
"We had more than 7000 people actually arrive in Gisborne for Rhythm and Vines on the 27th.
"...I think people were kind of curious to see the earthquake damage. It didn't deter anyone."
Gisborne is the first city to welcome in the New Year.
On December 20 an earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale struck the region, and nearly 2000 claims for damage have since been filed.
Rhythm and Vines, featuring about 40 New Zealand and international acts, runs for 24 hours from noon on New Year's Eve at Waiohika Estate Vineyards.
- NZPA
