This Content Is Only For Subscribers
The TSB Festival of Lights has delivered its strongest economic result to date, reinforcing the role of major events in driving regional tourism.
A new post-event report by Business and Economic Research Limited (BERL) shows the festival contributed $11.8 million to regional GDP, the highest figure recorded since reporting began.
New Plymouth District mayor Max Brough says the result highlights the festival’s importance to the region’s visitor economy.
“This festival is such a big part of what makes our region special and attracts visitors from across the country who also shop, stay and eat at local businesses,” Max says.
Visitor growth drives regional spend
Visitor numbers and length of stay increased this season, with a record 86,327 out-of-region visitor nights.
Around 45,000 visitors travelled from outside Taranaki to attend the event, with most citing the festival as their primary reason for visiting.
The increase in visitor activity provided a boost to accommodation providers, hospitality venues and retailers during the peak summer period.
NPDC events lead Lisa Ekdahl says the results reflect what operators are seeing on the ground.
“The BERL findings back up what our operators have been telling us – this festival brings people here, they stay longer, and they spend locally,” Lisa says.
“The continued year-on-year gains show that events like the Festival of Lights are not only good fun; they’re a major economic driver for our region.”
Satisfaction and repeat visitation
Visitor satisfaction reached 96 per cent, with attendees highlighting the free programme, installations and overall delivery as key reasons for returning.
Wider economic and tourism impact
The festival is supported through regional and national funding, including backing from Venture Taranaki via the New Plymouth Major Events Fund, as well as central government support through the Events Boost Fund.
Venture Taranaki general manager destination Janet Reynolds says events such as the Festival of Lights help extend visitor stays and encourage wider regional exploration.
“Events like this encourage visitors to stay a little longer and explore all that the region has to offer, with flow-on effects throughout the wider regional economy,” Janet says.
Environmental initiatives and future planning
The latest event also delivered improvements in waste diversion, supported by changes to onsite sorting, vendor requirements and community engagement.
Planning is underway for the next edition, with a continued focus on sustainability, innovation and growing the event’s national and international profile.
