From world-class acts, unique stories, arts and crafts to writers sessions the Harcourts Hawke's Bay Arts Festival launch was an explosion of colour last night.
Held at Arts Inc Heretaunga, the festive flair involved a crowd of enthusiastic sponsors and supporters who eagerly awaited the new programme for the fourth festival which will be held later this year from October 15-28.
The event is on its way to becoming one of the foremost regional arts festivals in New Zealand, nurturing Hawke's Bay's reputation as a vibrant and exciting place to live and visit.
The launch highlighted and celebrated the common connections and cultural diversity as well as fostering opportunity for local artists to showcase and extend their talents alongside national and international arts.
The programme for this year would focus on the accessibility of bringing the performing arts to young people.