The annual tradition of thousands of young people celebrating New Year's Eve at the Mount was joined by families this time round, as a crowd of 50,000 of all ages enjoyed music and fireworks last night.

Tauranga City Council event manager Penny Mitropoulos says the annual celebrations attracted a record 50,000 people last year – and last night was on par with this figure.

The Kara Gordon Band performing on the Classic Hits Street Stage. Photos by Tracy Hardy.

'The night's been fantastic – we've had loads of people come down to watch the fireworks and the bands on two stages we've got.”

With everyone in a good mood, Penny says the turnout was also much more mixed this year, with young people and families both enjoying the atmosphere.

'We've got a mix actually; we've had a lot more families here this year, which is great to see them feeling safe to come down here and enjoy New Year's Eve – and a huge amount of teenagers, which always good.

'It's been a really good night and everyone's been enjoying themselves.”

Penny while there is always a little trouble at such events, 'with 50,000 people we don't get too many problems”.

But this has been helped by strong police presence and support, says Penny. '[All involved have been] monitoring the whole situation at all times – and everyone's communicating with everyone really well this year, and it's helped us keep on top of things before they escalate.”

Attractions included a top line-up of free entertainment throughout the New Year's Eve day on two stages, including Tauranga bands RPM, The Generators and Triple J. Bands began at 8pm on both stages with performances continuing until after midnight, when the New Year was welcomed in with the traditional spectacular fireworks display.

Penny says the beach stage was the most popular, with Triple J. '[they] just bring that crowd into singing, dancing and really getting into that spirit of the festival.

'It's been a really top night and I think the whole community has enjoyed it.”

Mount Maunganui beach is having a 100 per cent substance team with free barbecue and sport activities for all today. And the Lift Plus team has a big bus with a trip through it going on screen, sited at Mount Drury.