Te Ramaroa is a biennial, community-focused festival that celebrates the transformative power of light, turning Nelson winter nights into magical experiences.
Since its inception in 2013, Te Ramaroa has been shaped by the community. Most installations are created by Nelson locals—teachers, chocolate makers, scientists, distillers, electricians—crafted in their spare time with passion, commitment, and support from family and friends. We also bring in talented artists and creatives from across the country to join in the fun.
The shift from Queens Gardens as the central space was driven by the festival's phenomenal growth, from 16,000 attendees in 2013 to over 50,000 in 2021. Managing these large crowds became complex, prompting us to reshape the event to ensure it remains enjoyable, safe, and sustainable. Moving into the city centre created incredible opportunities to transform our city and set Te Ramaroa on a new path.
The name Te Ramaroa symbolises a beacon, honouring the past, celebrating the present, and shining a light on a bright future—a fitting name for the joy and light our festival brings. With this new name in 2021 came a fresh creative direction: we expanded the festival across central Nelson Whakatū, NMIT, Piki Mai/Church Hill, various laneways, and featured a major work in Queens Gardens.
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Te Ramaroa is a biennial festival staged by Te Ramaroa Trust.
As a community event, our emphasis is on accessibility. This is from both sides: we are committed to encouraging and welcoming a wide range of people and community groups to take part; and we work equally hard at making sure the event can be safely enjoyed by as many people as possible.One of the most special things about Te Ramaroa is that is a free event, and this is thanks to the generous support of our funders and sponsors.
The Trust was established in 2013 to produce the inaugural Light Nelson Event.
The Beginning
It all started in 2012 when local artist Anne Rush and photographer John-Paul Pochin gathered a small group of like-minded people to form the Light Nelson Collective. This collective became the creative engine room, providing support and opportunities for anyone interested in getting involved. It fostered a supportive, educational, and creative environment open to everyone, encouraging collaboration and the sharing of ideas and skills.
The Inaugral Event
In 2013, the Light Nelson Trust was established, staging the first Light Nelson event in Queen’s Gardens and Albion Square. The inaugural event featured 23 projects that captivated both the artistic community and the public. Memorable installations included Sue Haydon’s 'Precipice,' created with members of the migrant community, and Ben Clegg’s 'Rainbow Bridge,' which produced one of the event's most enduring images.
Growth And Expansion
The following year, the Nelson City Council became the core funder, and Light Nelson entered a joint venture with key arts, education, and tourism organisations. Attendance soared to 45,000 over three nights, drawn by 38 installations. The decision to go biennial was made to better allocate resources and give artists more time to perfect their installations. Standout works included Fleur Stewart’s 'Glowing Sheep' and Anne Rush’s 'Lucent 11.'
Rising Popularity
By 2016, participation had surged, with over 55,000 attendees over four nights enjoying 62 installations. Hardy Street was closed off to create a bustling hub with food stalls, children’s activities, and entertainment. The historic Arts & Media building was illuminated with moving imagery by Jon Baxter. The festival's economic benefits to the city also grew, thanks to continued marketing collaboration with the regional tourism organisation NRDA.
Spectacle And Innovation
In 2018, more than 40,000 people turned out to witness 66 light installations throughout Queens Gardens, Albion Square, and the NMIT campus. The enhanced Light Nelson Hub on Hardy Street and the return of the Lightbulb Men and roving entertainers were highlights. Notable installations included Flame Daisy’s giant neon Cathy Wheel on the old wooden bridge and aerialist Chloe Loftus performing high in a tree in Albion Square. A major highlight was Nelson’s own Mr. Science setting a new world record for the world’s longest double helix structure at 68.5 meters.
A Year Of Return
After an extra year's wait due to the pandemic, 2021 was a massive year for Te Ramaroa. The event featured over 30 light installations across key locations like Piki Mai / Church Hill, Nelson’s city streets, NMIT, Kirby Lane, and Queen's Gardens. Well over 50,000 people enjoyed clear and crisp mid-winter nights filled with illuminations, stage entertainment, and delights from more than a dozen food trucks. The new Performance Precinct on upper Trafalgar Street showcased a diverse array of local talent, with each night concluding with a DJ set. Flash mobs, a Bike Rave, and Voice Collective’s ode to the moon added unique flair to the festival.
Mesmerising and Memorable Celebration
Five crisp and clear nights full of stunning installations, mesmerising performances and our city's beautiful community spirit. Our 2023 event was everything we had hoped for, and more: our new footprint across central Whakatū; over 40 light installations and more than 50,000 visitors who enjoyed our beautiful installations across the central city, Cathedral Hill, NMIT and Queens Gardens. Highlights included the buzzing Community Stage and performances at Cultural Conversations above Selwyn Place, bringing people together and enhancing the festival atmosphere.
