Festival director Sam Ryan said an opening ceremony would take place in Whanganui on October 16, and the War Memorial Centre would be the festival hub.
“We’ve got some guests engaged from overseas and around the country, so it’s looking to be an exciting and diverse programme,” he said.
Professor Hazel Gamec, founder of Whanganui School of Design (now part of Ucol), is assisting with the festival programme.
“We will be hosting a reunion gathering for the ex-students of the school. We’re honoured to have their support and guidance,” Ryan said.
Award-winning artist and former Cannes Lion Jury president Tom Eslinger will return from Chicago to be part of the festival.
Whanganui District Council will work alongside Palmerston North City Council and Central Economic Development Agency to bring the elements of the programme to life.
Palmerston North Mayor Grant Smith said the partnership was an opportunity to showcase creativity and collaboration across Whanganui-Manawatū and create new pathways for local creatives.
The festival is one of 37 events and campaigns accepted under the Government’s one-off $10 million Events Boost Fund, with funding of up to $750,000 per applicant.
Tourism and hospitality minister Louise Upston said the events would attract fans and visitors, and be a “big boost” to New Zealand’s economy.
Other funded events include World of Wearable Art in Wellington, Ironman in Taupō, and a Six60 and Synthony concert in Christchurch.
The fund aims to increase short-term tourism and economic growth through various events and to enhance Aotearoa as a global events and tourism destination.
Despite the funding being a one-off, Ryan said the plan was to make the festival biennial, potentially with different themes.
The NZ Festival of Design is now calling for submissions from designers, makers, artists and innovators to be part of the programme. Go to festivalofdesign.co.nz to submit a proposal.
