Local Focus: A bright idea now a permanent attraction

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.

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