Napier’s Biggest Street Party Shines On

Published: 30 August 2024

The streets of Napier will once again come alive with the vibrant energy of Nuit Blanche – Art After Dark, on Saturday, 5 October 2024, the city’s iconic street party like no other.

Centred around Tennyson and Hastings Streets in Napier’s Arts Quarter, the event features art gallery events, live music, buskers, great food, laser lights, interactive art, and video projections on Waiapu Cathedral.

Although Nuit Blanche is usually part of the Arts Festival, which is taking a break this year, Napier City Business Inc and Napier City Council have collaborated to keep the event going.

Napier City Councillor Sally Crown, who is also a board member of Napier City Business Inc, believes the event is good for the economy, for local pride and for helping build vibrancy in the city, especially after dark.

“Napier is really good at bringing the community out to share events that celebrate who we are, in a really diverse, vibrant and energetic way. In the year we celebrate our 150th it’s a great way to show off our ability to throw a party and have a good time,” says Sally. “Nuit Blanche is a total-city take-over with events and happenings bubbling up in all sorts of laneways, streets, spaces and galleries over one incredible evening.”

Many shops and galleries in the area will stay open late for Nuit Blanche with most hosting special activities or installations. The popular historic illuminations projected onto notable buildings in the CBD will also return.

“This event provides an extraordinary experience of arts, culture and creativity. It also supports the local community by boosting the economy and creating opportunities for local businesses and artists,” Sally says. “In everything we do, there is a need for prudence and working together to identify external funding for the event has been crucial”.

Napier City Business Inc General Manager Pip Thompson says she is thrilled about the return of Nuit Blanche this year.

“Since its debut in 2017, Nuit Blanche has grown into an iconic celebration of Napier’s artistic and cultural scene. We’re excited to carry on the tradition this year and look forward to bringing everyone together for a vibrant celebration of art, culture, and community spirit.”

Pip Thompson explains that with the event coinciding with school holidays, it’s the perfect time to visit Hawke’s Bay.

“This is a great opportunity for our locals to encourage their family and friends to visit Napier to soak up the region’s world-class attractions, atmosphere and activities!”

Saturday, 5 October’s Nuit Blanche is paired with Deco Lumina on Friday and Saturday (4 and 5 October). Together, they create a weekend-long street party that will light up Napier’s CBD and help mark Napier’s 150th commemorations.

Mark your calendars and spread the word - Nuit Blanche - Art After Dark is a Napier event you won’t want to miss!

Events Details:

Nuit Blanche - Art After Dark: Saturday, 5 October 6-10pm

Deco Lumina - A Heritage Trail of Light: Friday, 4 October & Saturday, 5 October 8-10pm

Location: Napier CBD

Entry cost: FREE

About Deco Lumina: A Heritage Trail of Light

As Napier borough celebrates its 150th anniversary, Deco Lumina offers the chance to explore the city in a whole new light. Produced by Tūrama Productions in partnership with Napier City Council, Deco Lumina invites you to walk the ‘Heritage Trail of Light,’ where illuminated installations will showcase Napier’s unique architecture and rich history. Enjoy live performances, interactive activities, and a variety of food offerings from local trucks and restaurants. Deco Lumina is a must-see event on both Friday and Saturday nights, adding a luminous layer to your Nuit Blanche experience.

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