Dogs have their day at festival's PAW contest

Dogs dressed as All Blacks, book characters and celebrities paraded in front of thousands of people at Bluebridge Family Finale at Founders Heritage Park yesterday.

The finale of the Nelson Arts Festival, which began on October 7, featured the annual Pet Art Wear (PAW) competition and a ukulele sing-along, as well as special guests Newtown Rock Steady and family entertainment.

Nelson City Council festival director Sophie Kelly said about 3000 people attended the finale – slightly fewer than previous years.

"That's OK. It was a really lovely day and everybody was very laidback and cruisy.

"It's such a nice way to finish the festival."

PAW compere Hans Andersen said the standard of entries was the highest he had ever seen.

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