Whakatāne River will glow with colour and light tonight as illuminated waka, rowing boats, kayaks and other vessels take to the river for Waka on the Water, one of the highlights of the Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne festival.

For Ngāti Awa, Ōhinemataroa holds spiritual and cultural significance. It is closely linked to the stories of Toroa, Wairaka and the arrival traditions that gave Whakatāne its name. Today, the river remains an important part of community life, serving as a place for boating, fishing, swimming and recreation, while also providing drinking water and habitat for native plants, birds and fish.

Arts Whakatāne president Sue Whale said she had always hoped the river would become part of the festival.

“When we created the Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne festival, I always felt that our river should be a part of it,” she said.

Last year, boaties answered a call to decorate their vessels with coloured lights, creating a moving display on the water.

“The Tarawera Waka Ama Club and the Rowing Club responded. We were blessed with a clear, calm night, and viewing the beautifully lit boats on the water added to the overall experience of enjoying all the illuminations in our CBD.”

This year, organisers are promising an even bigger spectacle, with more boats expected to join the flotilla.

Waka on the Water has been a collaborative effort, with Arts Whakatāne member Peter Minten co-ordinating participants and inviting organisations to take part.

Coastguard has pledged a vessel for the event, while illuminated kayaks are also expected to feature. Sailor Barry Cutfield is set to join the display with his catamaran decked out in lights.

Adding another dimension to the experience will be a specially created soundtrack. Arts Whakatāne member Cushla Brosnahan, who has directed theatre productions in the Netherlands, worked with musician Dave Stewart to create a musical backdrop for the event.

Stewart will perform the introductory section live from 5.30pm as boats gather on the river.

The second part of the soundtrack will be played from 6pm to 6.30pm as the illuminated vessels pass the former iSite viewing area.

The introductory part will be played by Stewart from 5:30pm during the arrival and gathering time and then the second part will be played when the boats are opposite the old iSite, from 6pm to 6:30pm.

Festivalgoers are encouraged to wrap up warmly and head to the old iSite terrace to enjoy the free family friendly event.

Waka on the Water

■Where: Former iSite terrace

■ When: Tonight, July 15, from 5.30pm