Wellington's stormy weather held off sufficiently today for the Out in the Square fair day to go off without a hitch, attracting a sizable crowd. Out in the Square: American ambassador David Huebner (2nd from left) meets Proud stallholders A shower of glitter and confetti from cannons marked the 11am start of the annual fair which was opened by Wellington mayor Kerry Prendergast who wore a vivid pink coat for the occasion. An entertainment stage, competitions and stalls and food outlets were spread across Civic Square to welcome a crowd which the organisers believe may have been a little smaller than last year due to the uncertain weather. Political parties and MPs including the Greens' Kevin Hague ensured a political presence at the event which was also attended by the newly appointed gay American ambassador David Huebner in a non-official capacity. Huebner was introduced to a number of the Capital's notable gays and lesbians including the venerable First Gay Couple of Wellington, Des Smith and John Joliff. Co-organiser Aaron Hailwood says he is very happy with how the day turned out after stormy weather yesterday forced a 24-hour last minute postponement. Today's fair day and party events last night marked the start of Wellington's two-week long Proud festival.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Sunday, 24th January 2010 - 4:25pm