Festival of Lights, Light festival in Pukekura Park, New Plymouth, New Zealand.
Description
The TSB Festival of Lights transforms Pukekura Park with illuminated installations that appear across lakes, pathways, and natural areas from December through January. The display spans multiple zones throughout the park, creating different lighting experiences.
History
The event began in the 1970s when music and entertainment performances were added to the park, before receiving its official name as Festival of Lights in 1993. This designation marked the start of it becoming an annual celebration.
Culture
The festival connects to Matariki, the Māori New Year celebration, marked by light displays that appear throughout downtown New Plymouth and along the Coastal Walkway. These illuminations are part of how the community marks this important season.
Practical
The park is accessible throughout the festival season from December to January and offers pathways suitable for visitors of different abilities. Arriving early or visiting during less busy times helps create a better experience.
Did you know?
Visitors can ride Glow Boats on the illuminated waterways to view the installations from the water. This boat experience offers a different perspective on the lights compared to walking through the park.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (New Plymouth).
Pukekura Park
39 m
Puke Ariki
1.1 km
TSB Stadium
306 m
The Taranaki Cathedral Church of St Mary
716 m
New Plymouth Observatory
533 m
Boer War Memorial
605 m
White Hart Hotel
1 km
Pukekura Falls
110 m
New Zealand Wars Memorial New Plymouth
633 m
Len Lye Centre
1 km
New Plymouth Savings Bank
916 m
St Andrew's Church
724 m
Roebuck House
786 m
Queen Victoria Monument
59 m
Band Rotunda
62 m
Opera House
990 m
Brougham Street Offices
858 m
New Plymouth Prison
555 m
Poet's Bridge
157 m
C.C. Ward Building
840 m
Mayfair Cinema
901 m
National Bank Building
875 m
St Aubyn Chambers
1.2 km
Public Trust Office
1.1 km
King Building
919 m
Tea House
12 m
Bates House
921 m
House
519 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes