The Malcolm Flowers Winter Festival won’t be put on ice but the popular event, like many others, is facing some hard economic choices.
By Dan Hutchinson
Festival director Nicola de Lautour says the festival is at risk of significant cuts or cancellation after losing about $30,000 in sponsorship.
She is confident they will be able to find a few new sponsors over the coming months to maintain the festival to the same high standard that has made it popular.
The 17-night, free light hub remains the priority for investment, but the loss of several sponsors has put the entire festival in jeopardy.
Malcolm Flowers Insurance continues its support after 10 years, but some other sponsors have been unable to return.
“A lot of people think that the council owns events like the festival … but in actual fact it’s local charitable trusts that have passionate people who go out seeking grant funding money but also rely on community businesses and support.
“There’s been lots of examples around the country of events finishing due to rising costs.”
Nicola is working with local creatives and theatre groups, including Centre Stage and Creative Taupō, to develop events that showcase regional talent without the expense of bringing in outside performers.
“Where there’s problems, there’s often also opportunities.
“I’m talking with some of the local creatives and theatre type people about working with them to bring some programming to life, which obviously is great for locals and also could be a cost-effective way for the festival to still develop and programme some shows without the cost of bringing in people from outside the region.”
The festival has previously partnered with local businesses like Active Arts and Quirky Pottery, which typically sell out their special winter holiday offerings.
The Paradise Ice Skating Rink, brought down from Auckland, is still planned to return, though all aspects of the festival depend on securing additional sponsorship.
Nicola is appealing to local businesses to jump on board for a year or two to help maintain the light hub.
Sponsors receive signage around light installations, tickets to shows, and opportunities for exclusive staff and family events.
“I really want to keep the 17-night free light hub going and invest what we can into that.
“I think it’s become a part of winter that the public and visitors have grown to love.”
The festival is scheduled for July 3-19.
Get on board: Taupō & Tūrangi News will be getting in behind the Winter Festival this year as a sponsor. If you want to be part of the party and are looking for a fun event to support, contact [email protected]
This story previously appeared in the Taupō and Tūrangi News Festival feels the winter chill — Taupō & Tūrangi News | Local Central Plateau Taupo and Turangi News Source
