Council’s free, community event Glow in the Park was named Local Government Event of the Year at the event industry’s annual awards this week.

The 2025 light show in the Ashburton Domain attracted about 59,000 visitors over three nights and was up against Auckland’s Lantern Festival and two other council events shortlisted for the prize.

Judges said the family-friendly light festival had grown to become a flagship celebration for the district in just a few years, and they praised its strong community engagement and commitment to sustainability.

Group Manager of Compliance and Development Ian Hyde said it was great to see Glow in the Park in the limelight at the New Zealand Events Association awards in Hamilton.

“From the very first Glow, we’ve had great support from EA Networks as a major sponsor, and our community too has turned up in droves to see the light show. This award celebrates the fantastic organisation that goes into such an event, and the community’s backing of it. We’re thrilled.”

The first two events in 2022 and 2023 were held in the Tinwald Domain, and the following shows have been in the Ashburton Domain where there was room to expand. The 2024 and 2025 editions also featured low-sensory sessions, which were well-attended and appreciated.

Mr Hyde said the event drew many visitors to the district, as well as locals.

“Our team is already starting to think about what 2026 Glow in the Park will look like and we are excited to go again.”