New Plymouth’s signature summer attraction has once again been recognised as the premier local government event in the country.
The TSB Festival of Lights secured the top honour at the recent New Zealand Event Association Awards, reclaiming the national title it first won in 2022.
The award follows a massive season for the New Plymouth District Council event, which drew 162,500 visits to Pukekura Park across its five-week run last summer.
According to a recent study by Business and Economic Research Ltd, the festival contributed $11.8 million to Taranaki's GDP and generated a total economic impact of $23.1 million. Of the thousands who walked through the illuminated park, more than 45,000 visitors travelled from outside the region to attend.
New Plymouth District Council manager of venues and events Chade Julie said the national accolade acknowledges what makes the annual gathering so special.
"I’ve always felt there’s a bit of magic behind the festival," Julie said.
He noted that the event has become a highly anticipated holiday tradition for generations of families, developing a history and character that feels distinctly Taranaki.
"Combined with the stunning setting of Pukekura Park and everything our region has to offer, it's no surprise the festival attracted more than 45,000 visitors from outside Taranaki last year," he said.
Organising the massive lighting display requires a huge collaborative effort. Julie credited the award to the dedication of council staff and the ongoing backing of local partners.
“Behind every great event is an equally great team, and ours puts an incredible amount of work into bringing the festival to life each year, supported by our partners, sponsors and community,” he said.
The economic data proved highly positive for the region, showing that every dollar spent putting on the 2025/2026 festival returned $13.60 in visitor spending.
Preparation is already underway for the next season, which will light up the park from 19 December 2026 to 24 January 2027. Organisers are promising 37 nights of world-class installations and live entertainment, with a full programme expected to be announced later this year.
In a win for sustainability, the upcoming festival will run entirely on renewable electricity generated by the solar farm at New Plymouth Airport.
The event is supported by naming rights partner TSB, alongside Venture Taranaki, Toi Foundation, New Plymouth Airport and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.
📸 Charlotte Curd
