Ashburton ratepayers input into Glow in the Park remains capped at $52,000 as the popular event faces pressure from rising costs.

The event's costs, including traffic management, fuel and lighting, have increased since last year, which was putting pressure on the overall budget, Ashburton District Council compliance and development group manager Ian Hyde said.

District councillors voted for the event to continue with “necessary changes made, as required, to stay within a budget of up to $52,000”, in public excluded portion of the April 29 council meeting.

The council was checking on the preparation for the free to attend event, especially with rising fuel cost and it drawing crowds of over 50,000 – many from outside the district.

“Councillors discussed those costs and confirmed their desire for the event to proceed while keeping council's contribution under $52,000," Hyde.

“Since that discussion, further sponsorships have been secured, and while we won't have final figures until after King's Birthday weekend, we're currently on track to deliver EA Networks Glow in the Park 2026 well within budget.”

The “up to $52,000” comes from the council's community event budget, which is funded by general rates.

“Significantly more is covered through sponsorships and in-kind support from local companies.

“It would be impossible to deliver this free community event without the generous support of EA Networks and our many other supporters.

“We've secured approximately $150,000 in addition to our council budget - that is made up of in-kind and contra deals, exclusive sponsorship arrangements and food vendor income.

“Our local businesses have been incredibly generous in their support of this event and the positive impact it has on our community, and we couldn't do it without them."

The first two Glow in the Park events were held at the Tinwald Domain, with severe congestion as 17,000 people attended in 2023.

It moved to the Ashburton Domain in 2024 and the number of attendees double to over 40,000.

Hyde said relocating to the Ashburton Domain had resolved most of the traffic management and parking issues experienced at the first two events.

“We didn't observe any significant issues last year, but always look to make improvements where we can. As always, we encourage people who live nearby to consider walking rather than driving and to take extra care if crossing State Highway 1.”

By Jonathan Leask