The TSB Festival of Lights Winter Pop-Up in New Plymouth has proven to be a resounding success, generating an impressive $1.25 million in spending over the Matariki long weekend. This year, the event attracted around 15,000 attendees, with 17% of them coming from outside the Taranaki region, an increase from 14% last year. Notably, 79% of these out-of-town visitors traveled specifically for the festival, highlighting its growing appeal beyond local boundaries. Visitor satisfaction was rated at an impressive 92%, indicating a strong positive reception among attendees.
New Plymouth District Mayor Neil Holdom emphasized the significance of the festival to the local economy, while NPDC Events Lead Lisa Ekdahl noted the high satisfaction levels and the substantial economic impact of the event. The festival featured nine stunning light installations and 37 performances, including six in te reo MÄori, showcasing the cultural richness of the region. The Winter Pop-Up has also been nominated for the Best Local Government Event in the 2024 New Zealand Event Awards, further underscoring its success.
Looking ahead, the summer festival is scheduled to take place from December 21, 2024, to January 26, 2025. The previous summer festival won awards in 2021, setting high expectations for the upcoming event. The TSB Festival of Lights continues to be a beacon of community spirit and economic vitality in New Plymouth, drawing visitors and enhancing the local cultural landscape.