The Fiesta of Lights is one of the highlights of Christmas in Hawke's Bay, attracting thousands of people to the Waikoko Gardens at the Hawke's Bay Showgrounds in Hastings.
Originally a one-off event to celebrate the new century, it is now an affordable family tradition.
Volunteer organiser Te Rangi Huata said it was originally paired with music but a survey revealed the lights were the main attraction.
He said it was popular with all ages.
"A lot of the things we do here is interactive – for young and old, adults can play as well. That's part of the reason why people enjoy coming along," he said.
"We started off with one sculpture – one little deer that we have still got – and five thousand fairy lights.
"Today we have about 35 different light scenes and half-a-million fairy lights."
The Fiesta is open from 9pm to 11pm until January 7 and on New Years Eve there is additional entertainment and a fireworks display at the family-friendly time of 9.45pm.
Made with funding from