The change comes as organisers try to bring a family-focus to the event, which in the past has attracted 12,000 people to watch the fireworks display.

Last year d'Albora Marinas spent $25,000 on two fireworks displays set off from a barge moored 200 metres from the foreshore.

The event was praised by organisers and police, with an increased concentration on stamping out anti-social behaviour, resulting in more families turning out for the event.

This year organisers are taking it one step further, catering specifically to families with 9pm fireworks and cancelling late night activities including the midnight fireworks display.

"New Year's Eve 2014 is set to be more exciting than ever for locals and visitors to the Bay, with this year's focus being on families," organiser Deborah Stretton said.

"More than 5000 people are expected to fill the marina precinct and surrounding foreshore with early starters on chairs and blankets getting a prime spot from the early evening."

Entertainment is starting at midday and there are a host of free activities this year, such as face painting and clowns.

Anyone looking to have an alcoholic drink will also find they are not welcome unless inside a licensed venue, with alcohol-free zones stretching across most beaches, parks and the foreshore area.

Included on the list of alcohol prohibited locations are Fly Point Reserve, Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay and Little Beach foreshores, Zenith Beach and Ngioka Reserve.

"D'Albora Marinas will have security guards patrolling all night on site," Ms Stretton said.