Light Nelson: a celebration of community, creativity and the wonder of light

In just five weeks’ time, in the coldest and darkest part of winter, Nelsonians have the perfect excuse to rug up, get outside, and be dazzled by one of New Zealand's best light festivals.

Light Nelson is back from 6 – 10 July with close to 60 light installations.

The installations will be laid out along a one-way pedestrian circuit, winding its way through Queens Gardens, looping back through Albion Square, and then fanning through the NMIT campus. Hardy Street will be closed off again for the Light Nelson Hub, with food and entertainment. Back again this year is Auckland artist Jon Baxter. He will once again project his video-mapping imagery on the old Technical Institute – a firm favourite from 2016, and it will be even better in 2018.

As a little extra surprise, this year Light Nelson is making a foray further along Bridge Street to Pocket Park, where Nelson artist Melissa Millard will be installing an artwork called 1000 Cranes. The title refers to the much-loved and often-told Japanese story of whoever folds 1000 cranes will be granted a wish. 1000 Cranes is not only intended to inspire hope and create a sense of wonder, but also to prompt visitors to think about what their one wish might be.

Light Nelson is still looking for volunteers. If you are interested in being part of our city’s favourite winter event, you can find more info on Light Nelson website or the Light Nelson Facebook page.