Te Ramaroa Nelson Light Festival looks set to return in 2026 having secured an exciting partnership with Bayleys as their new naming partner.
Director at Bayleys Nelson, Glenn Dick, says: “We are thrilled to become the Te Ramaroa naming partner. This magical winter event is a highlight on Nelson’s calendar and something we have proudly supported for many years. Becoming the naming partner reflects our own ongoing commitment to ensure this festival continues in 2026.”
Chair of the Te Ramaroa Trust, Annette Milligan says: “The increased commitment from Bayleys has provided an essential boost for this much-loved community event. As we look towards an incredible Te Ramaroa Festival in 2026 we are excited to partner with Bayleys. They have been one of our supporters from the beginning so we are delighted we will now work even more closely together to make next year’s event the best festival of light art yet!”
Existing supporters and sponsors, including Nelson City Council and the Trust’s loyal patrons – known as ‘Luminaries’ – have also committed their support to the event in 2026. The Trust is seeking additional support from sponsors and local businesses to ensure sufficient funding will be secured for 2026 and future festivals.
The Trust was established in 2013 to produce the inaugural Light Nelson Festival and was formed by a collection of leading Nelson artists and businesspeople who shared a common vision to provide a sustainable, unique event during the winter months. Since then, it has grown to become one of the largest free light festivals in the country. It’s wonderful for the community, and it also creates value for retail and hospitality businesses in what is normally a quiet time of year.
“Te Ramaroa brings families, friends and visitors together for five magical nights of light, art, and celebration, showing the kind of community spirit that makes Nelson such a special place to live and work,” says Glenn Dick.
“We remain incredibly grateful to all our loyal supporters and for the ongoing support from Bayleys,” says Festival Director Michaela Blackman. “Te Ramaroa 2026 is set to be our best yet, with bold, immersive works, incredible projection pieces and light art structures from local and national artists. Planning is well underway with many artists from the postponed 2025 festival agreeing to exhibit their works in 2026. Local community groups and schools will be invited to produce art works to exhibit and for dressing the town. We are happy to be back and look forward to delivering an incredible festival.”
Over 50,000 visitors attended the festival in 2023, up from 16,000 in its first year, ten years earlier. A Marketview report estimated that total spend in Nelson City increased 17% during the 2023 event compared to 2019.
To learn more about how you can support the festival and keep us free, go here.
