TSB Festival of Lights sparks record economic boost for Taranaki region

NPDC’s much‑loved TSB Festival of Lights has once again proven its star power, with a new independent report confirming this summer’s season delivered record‑breaking economic benefits for the region.

The recently completed post-event report by Business and Economic Research Limited (BERL) shows the festival contributed $11.8 million to regional GDP, the most ever since NPDC started reporting on the measure. 

New Plymouth District Mayor Max Brough says the result reinforces the festival’s impact as of Taranaki’s cornerstone event and a major economic driver for the region.

“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,” he says.

“It just keeps getting better and better, and these results recognise the long-term investment from NPDC as well as its expertise to deliver and attract people to this world class event.

Mayor Max also acknowledged ongoing investment by local businesses, particularly naming sponsor TSB, in the events success.

Visitor numbers and length of stay saw strong growth this year, with a record‑breaking 86,327 out‑of‑region visitor nights. A total of 45,000 people travelled from outside Taranaki to attend the event, with the majority citing the festival as their primary reason for visiting. This influx of visitors delivered a significant economic boost for local accommodation providers, hospitality venues, and retailers during the peak summer season.

Kerry Boielle, Chief Executive Officer of TSB says supporting the festival means supporting the wellbeing and vibrancy of the community.

“TSB is incredibly proud to support the TSB Festival of Lights, an event that continues to shine as one of Aotearoa’s most loved summer experiences. This year’s impact report highlights what our community has long known, the Festival delivers remarkable social, cultural, environmental, and economic value for Taranaki. 

As a proudly New Zealand‑owned bank, TSB is committed to backing initiatives that bring communities together and showcase what makes Taranaki like no other. We’re honoured to play our part in an event that sparks joy, celebrates creativity, and delivers lasting benefits for the region year after year.”

Festivalgoers were also happier than ever, with visitor satisfaction rising to 96%. Many attendees highlighted the free entertainment programme, vibrant installations, and consistently high‑quality delivery as key reasons for returning year after year.

NPDC Events Lead, Lisa Ekdahl says the results demonstrate the festival’s crucial role in supporting local operators.

“The BERL findings back up what our operators have been telling us on the ground, this festival brings people here, they stay longer, and they spend locally,” Ekdahl said.

“The continued year‑on‑year gains show that events like the TSB Festival of Lights are not only good fun; they’re a major economic driver for our region.”

Alongside the economic wins, the festival delivered strong environmental results. Improved on‑site waste sorting, tighter vendor requirements, and greater community engagement helped lift waste diversion from landfill.

Planning is already underway for the next edition of the festival, with continued focus on innovation, sustainability, and proudly showcasing Taranaki to the rest of Aotearoa.

GM Destination at Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki, Janet Reynolds says it is proud to support the TSB Festival of Lights through the administration of the New Plymouth Major Events Fund.

“ It’s fantastic to see the event delivering such strong economic impact, while also showcasing the vibrant arts and culture that make our region special. 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.

“We’re excited to build on this momentum through the Government’s Event Boost funding and look forward to working with the NPDC Festival team to further raise the profile of the event to national and international audiences.”

The event was among recipients of funding from the Events Boost Fund, secured by NPDC to enhance the delivery and national reach of the 2026/27 season.

At a glance:

• 162,500 attendees visited the 2025/26 festival which is run annually by the New Plymouth District Council
• This year’s festival featured 13 light installations and 77 events ranging from live music and film screenings to interactive activities and cultural performances.
• The Economic Impact: $23.1 million in total economic impact, and $11.8 million in GDP contribution to Taranaki Economy (2025/2026 BERL study)
•  For every $1 spent by the event generated $13.60 in expenditure.

Caption: Eye of the Forest, by Catherine Ellis and Angus Muir. Image by Charlotte Curd.