After a year off, Ōamaru’s Friendly Bay Family Fun Day is back.

The Waitaki District Council-sponsored event is geared towards providing an affordable day out for families. 

It includes activities such as a beach dig, a sandcastle building contest and beach flag racing along the Friendly Bay seashore; while live music, food stalls, face painting, inflatables and more, keep others happy on solid ground nearby .

Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher said organisers were “super-excited” the event was returning this year. 

“This free event, focused on families and our tamariki, is a must-do in many families’ social calendars and we cannot wait to welcome them back to this year’s event. 

“This is an excellent opportunity for youngsters to win prizes, get their face painted, have multiple turns on the big inflatable slide, a go on the kayaks and the Lion’s Club Noddy Train - all for free!” 

The council parks team was looking forward to supporting the event which coincided with Parks Week, an Australasian event held this year from March 4-12, council recreation officer David McFarlane said.

“Parks Week is all about the vital role parks play in creating liveable and thriving communities. 

“We are thrilled to support the Friendly Bay Family Fun Day for another year and cannot wait to join in the fun.”

The event is being held on Saturday, March 11, 11am-3pm at Friendly Bay, Ōamaru.