Whakatāne’s main street glowed with a stream of light, colour and laughter last Friday night as hundreds turned out for the Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne Light Parade.

The parade – the grand finale to the annual Light Up Whakatāne Festival – began with participants assembling at Wharaurangi (The Gap) where the public had the chance to admire their illuminated creations before they stepped onto The Strand.

Standout costumes included aliens and UFOs, two stunning illuminated witches and a pair of beautifully crafted octopuses.

Led by the Whakatāne Pipe Band, the procession made its way along the spectator-lined street to the Atea Night Market for prizegiving and celebrations.

Among the colourful entries was Radio 1XX, engaged in what appeared to be the world’s slowest high-speed police pursuit, with owner Andy Galbraith behind the wheel of the station’s miniature 1XX cart racer.

Event organiser Kim Fort is grateful to the event’s sponsors, volunteers and the wider community for helping make this year’s festival another success.

“This year marked five years of Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne.

“Over eight nights, the event attracted more than 10,000 attendees and featured 26 art installations, with visitors joining us from across the region during the school holidays,” she said.

“It was wonderful to see the town centre come alive, with local businesses embracing the festival through illuminated shopfronts, light-themed desserts and creative window displays.

“These contributions add to the atmosphere and help showcase Whakatāne as a vibrant destination and are only possible thanks to the support of our sponsors, volunteers and community groups.”