2012 PROGRAMME OF EVENTS

All events are weather-dependent and may be brought forward, postponed, shifted or cancelled on the day if conditions are unsafe for flying.

For information on event status during the event tune into Wairarapa's 89.5/105.5 MoreFM, follow us on Facebook or Twitter or check our home page daily from 6.30am. 

Thursday 8 March

7.00am Mass Ascension & Tribute Flight - Carrington Park, Carterton 

The festival's official opening where all the balloons lift off together - a colourful and magical spectacle. Special tribute will be paid to those involved in the balloon accident in Carterton on 7 January 2012.  Note: if this event is affected by bad weather, it will be held of Friday 9 March at the same venue instead of the scheduled event on that day. Free entry. 

8.00pm Burner Parade - Carterton Town Centre 

Balloon pilots and crews parade through Carterton's main street with their balloon baskets, firing up their burners in a spectacular display.

Friday 9 March

7.15am  MoreFM Balloon Meister's Challenge - Wairarapa College, Masterton 
Balloons launch from Wairarapa College grounds and fly over Masterton in a competition with tasks set by the Balloon Meister on the morning. Free entry.

4.00pm  Meet the Pilots at Hood Aerodrome, Masterton, followed by Balloon Launch
Meet the pilots, get up close to the basket and learn how a balloon works.  Weather permitting, balloons will fly out of the aerodrome.  Free entry.

Saturday 10 March 

7.15am Wairarapa Times-Age Splash 'n Dash - Henley Lake, Masterton

Balloons launch upwind of the lake and attempt to splash their baskets into the water to score points. Multiple attempts can be made. An exciting competition event! Free entry.

6.30pm-8.45pm Trust House Night Glow - Solway Showgrounds, Masterton 

A magical evening for the whole family and the festival highlight. Tethered balloons light up the night sky in a dazzling display, choreographed to music.

Adults $7, children aged 5-12 $4, under 5s free.  Family $20 (two adults, 3 children). Cash gate sales only.  Bring the whole family and a picnic. Food and drinks available to purchase. Entertainment from 6.30pm
 
Please note: Change of venue from last year. Balloons may inflate at any time during the evening depending on weather conditions.

Sunday 11 March

7.15am Competition Flight Over Carterton, Paua World, Kent St 

Pilots choose a launch venue where the wind direction gives them the best chance of dropping a competition marker onto a set target at Paua World in Kent Street, Carterton.  Free entry.