Whanganui is set to become the epicenter of design innovation in October when it hosts the inaugural New Zealand Festival of Design. The event, supported by $750,000 from the government’s one-off $10 million Events Boost Fund, will run from October 16 to 21 and will feature a mix of free and ticketed events, including lighting displays, keynote speeches, and creative workshops.

Free Lighting and Keynote Speakers Highlight Festival

During the first two days of the festival, free lighting activations will be displayed around Pukenamu Queen’s Park and Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery. These installations aim to transform the urban landscape with interactive and artistic elements, drawing both locals and visitors to the heart of Whanganui.

Alongside the free events, the festival will also feature ticketed sessions with keynote speakers from across the design and creative industries. Festival director Sam Ryan said the program is designed to be both engaging and diverse, with international and local participants.

‘We’ve got some guests engaged from overseas and around the country, so it’s looking to be an exciting and diverse programme,’ Ryan said. ‘The War Memorial Centre will be the festival hub, and we’re working closely with local authorities to bring the events to life.’

Local Legacy and International Collaboration

The festival has strong local roots, with Professor Hazel Gamec, founder of the Whanganui School of Design (now part of Ucol), assisting with the program. Gamec’s involvement highlights the festival’s connection to the region’s creative heritage.

‘We will be hosting a reunion gathering for the ex-students of the school,’ Ryan said. ‘We’re honoured to have their support and guidance as we bring the festival to life.’

Another notable participant is Tom Eslinger, an award-winning artist and former president of the Cannes Lions Jury. Eslinger will return from Chicago to be part of the festival, bringing international prestige to the event.

Whanganui District Council is collaborating with Palmerston North City Council and the Central Economic Development Agency to ensure the festival’s success. Palmerston North Mayor Grant Smith emphasized the importance of the partnership in showcasing regional creativity and supporting new opportunities for local artists and designers.

‘This partnership is an opportunity to showcase creativity and collaboration across Whanganui-Manawatū and create new pathways for local creatives,’ Smith said.

Economic Impact and Future Plans

The festival is one of 37 events selected under the government’s Events Boost Fund, which aims to increase short-term tourism and economic growth. Tourism and hospitality minister Louise Upston said the event will attract visitors and provide a ‘big boost’ to New Zealand’s economy.

Other funded events include the World of Wearable Art in Wellington, Ironman in Taupō, and a Six60 and Synthony concert in Christchurch. The fund is part of a broader strategy to enhance Aotearoa’s reputation as a global events and tourism destination.

Although the funding is a one-time allocation, Ryan said the goal is to make the festival a biennial event, potentially with different themes each time. ‘We want this to be a recurring event that continues to inspire and engage the design community,’ he said.

The festival is now calling for submissions from designers, makers, artists, and innovators who wish to be part of the program. Submissions can be made at festivalofdesign.co.nz, with the deadline approaching for interested participants.