The containers are starting to appear on the wharf – the LUX light festival is back and opens Friday night!

Festival director Mary Laine says they’re exploring some new ways of doing things. The festival grows bigger each year so this year they’re experimenting with five distinct themes. By focusing five precincts on particular types of work they’re able to offer a better experience for the audience. (At least that’s the case this year – they might try something different next year.)

The five precincts are:

  • The Playground precinct is at Frank Kitts park. It’s focused on colourful, engaging works for kids. It’s a safe environment with games, workshops and activities that will change every night.
  • Te Ao Mārama is a bit further on, around Te Wharewaka o Pōneke/Odlins Plaza. It showcases New Zealand’s Māori artists who work with new and emerging technologies to create works rooted in tradition and culture.
  • Walking back over the City to Sea Bridge towards Civic Square will take you through the Circus. A family friendly precinct with wandering performers, street food, a projection onto the Town Hall, plus the opportunity to light up the Michael Fowler Centre with your own design.
  • Lower Cuba Street hosts the Urban Edge precinct. Light and sound artists, live glowing street art and window art feature here.
  • Finally, the Galleries precinct is distributed through Opera House Lane, Te Aro Park, Eva Street, and Leeds Street. This is a quieter art experience with difference pieces spread through the laneways.

There are more details about each precinct including artists and featured artworks on the LUX website. There’s also a map  to help you work out where everything is and you can follow along with the setup progress on their Instagram.

See you there!