The Central City Action Plan(external link) recognised a need for small-scale lighting projects to improve perceptions of safety attract more visitors into central city spaces after dark.
A projector at 110 Cashel Street showcases content by local artists over winter. Simon Rycroft's video projection of 'Matariki over Mount Tamahunga' is on display from 19 June to 19 July.
Inspired by a childhood memory, 'Matariki over Mount Tamahunga' celebrates the reverence and majesty of Matariki. This immersive video work portrays the nine stars of Matariki within an evolving nebula of cloud-like structures. These ethereal formations symbolise collective and individual experiences of the world unfolding around us, set against the sanctity and perpetuity of Matariki.
In 2018 we installed gobos in the Central City to project lighted art and design onto footpaths, creating a creative, light trail around the city at night.
Since then, the gobos have showcased many original works. Our latest trail celebrates 'Spring in Ōtautahi', encouraging exploration of the city's river, Port Hills and well-loved icons, connecting our city to its people. This collection is curated from past gobo designs from students, locals and artists.
From the Arts Centre to High Street, take a walk around the city and see which ones you can find - view our handy map to get started.
In 2019 we sought proposals for fun, eye-catching and innovative displays from lighting specialists. The competition sought to showcase local industry talent and encourage wider participation in shaping city spaces.
2000 people voted for their favourite lighting display from the top three finalists. ‘Spire’ by Shades Arcade took out the competition, featuring nine spires that changed colour as people moved around the installation.
Spire was active in Cathedral Square from August to November 2019 and returned to the city in June 2020 for part of the winter season.