Festival of the Lights product reviews

I have visited the Festival of Lights event in New Plymouth twice, and both times I loved it! I first visited in 2016 when I completed a North Island road trip. Stopping in New Plymouth was lovely - the food, atmosphere and people were all amazing. The second time I visited this event was the 2019/2020 show, and again, New Plymouth was lovely.

Each time I observed the event I was mesmerised by the beauty the lights created. The Festival of Lights event is suitable for anyone. The activities are easily walkable so even those with health issues would be able to get around. The lights are also so beautiful, I think children and adults alike will enjoy them.

The first time I went, I went with my partner and we were both in our early 20s. It was so magical and romantic. The second time was with my mum and teenage sister, we loved it this time too. It gave us all a lovely memory to share and was something special we will all remember.

The attraction has many different things to look at, and changes each year. Like viewing Christmas Light displays each year, I think the Festival of Lights in New Plymouth is an event everyone can see year after year, and never be let down.

Living in New Plymouth there is one event that you must do religiously and that is visit Pukekura Park during the Festival of the Lights. Best thing to do if you have visitors or if anyone ever visits New Plymouth from mid December to February. Located right in the middle of town it is absolutely fantastic to visit either during the daylight or night time.

Every year the theme is different and the park is decorated with amusing items like the Sleeping Giant or the Hanging Jellyfish and there are lights on most trees as you walk around the track that is set out. Hundreds of people visit a night and there is free entertainment on as well either a band playing where people bring a picnic and blankets and lie about under the stars and listern to the music, or there are events like the Fairies who entertain the small children. There is also Grimmice the Gorilla a family favourite and you watch this furry beast jump around the trees and then jump down and try and interact with the children. There are boats that you can take out for half an hour around the lake and idly row around the ducks. Or if you are inclined the Kiosk is always open ready to sell you an ice cream.

If you love nature and music then this is definitely an event to come to. The Waterfalls are so amazing with the colours coming down thru the water and then there is the Fernery you can see different kind of plants in an enclosure. Glow Worms are hidden down a secret track. So much to see and do and it is all free. It is just not a night event during the day activities are on as well like Teddy Bears Picnic or Markets.

Best thing to do is check at: www.festivaloflights.co.nz for times and schedules and if an event is cancelled because of the weather it is usually on at a different venue throughout New Plymouth.