Light Up Whakatāne illuminates the town
interactive artwork, The Floor is Lava by Mind Funk Visuals, which is particularly popular with children.
Troy Baker
The 2026 Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne festival is well under way following an opening night celebration last Friday night featuring food trucks, market stalls and a vibrant dance carnival.
With the town illuminated by 26 artistic installations created by more than 15 artists, there is plenty for visitors to explore and admire.
Highlights include Atea’s The Realm of Light, which celebrates Matariki.
This is a creation by Tame Iti and the Te Mira Collective.
Mind Fund Visuals have created seven separate light installations throughout the town.
Students from Whakatāne High School’s year 10 Design Thinking classes have also contributed thought-provoking installation outside the Whakatāne District Council offices.
Another standout attraction is Below the Surface, a stunning LED projection on the Whakatāne Yacht Club building, featuring breaching whales and captivating marine animations that bring the region’s coastal environment to life.
The Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne displays will be open to the public each evening until Saturday, July 18, giving locals and visitors plenty of opportunities to experience the illuminated artworks.
