Festivalgoers at Rhythm and Vines can expect drier conditions for the remainder of the event after a wet start to the three-day music festival in Gisborne.
Soggy Start to Rhythm and Vines
The festival began with thousands attending in gumboots and ponchos as the city’s airport MetService station recorded its wettest December day since 1937.
Lucy Parkinson, attending the festival for the second time, expressed disappointment with the rain, stating she had been hesitant to return after experiencing wet conditions last year.
Parkinson raised concerns about slipping hazards, particularly around high-traffic areas like toilets and water fountains. She noted that staff worked to ensure attendees’ safety during heavy downpours but believes the grounds require wood chips.
Festival director Kieran Spillane said attendees were alerted to the possible weather conditions and encouraged to dress accordingly. He added that more wood chips were spread on Tuesday morning to mitigate slipping risks.
Spillane was optimistic about the forecast, predicting a pleasant 25-26 degrees Celsius for the remainder of the festival with no further rain.
The wet weather proved beneficial for local retailer The Warehouse, with manager Brett Mitchell reporting a surge in sales of rain gear, tents, and towels.
Mitchell said the store hires a local cleaning company during the festival to manage the increased foot traffic and maintain cleanliness, including public restrooms. The store begins preparing stock nine months in advance, consistently factoring in the likelihood of rain.
Despite the initial wet conditions, Mitchell remained optimistic, noting increased demand for beach-related items as the weather improves.
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