They said the challenge had been to do it without extra cost to ratepayers, and so far “the events have exceeded that goal, making a small profit after covering costs”.
Illuminate hit the mark, with thousands of people enjoying Splash Planet after dark, with colourful displays, interactive attractions, rides and food trucks.
Not everyone was happy, with two noise complaints received during the first two days. The spokesperson said these were quickly resolved.
“There was some commentary around long queues, which is not surprising given the high attendance levels.”
A total of 178 people, including volunteers, staff and vendors, were involved in the event.
This included 10 council staff members.
The spokesperson said the company behind Illuminate, Event Hire, was indicating it would return next year.
Event Hire was on social media running a survey for customer feedback and would use it for this event and others it runs across the country, the spokesperson said.
“The council will also use the feedback to assist with other events proposed for the Splash Planet venue.”
They said Illuminate had shown Splash Planet was a viable option for events outside its normal water-based theme park operation.
“We are open to talking to any organisation that is interested in bringing an event to Hastings where Splash Planet may suit as a venue.”
Earlier, Hastings Mayor Wendy Schollum said it was great to have a positive response to the decision to open part of the park in winter.
“It’s fantastic to see the community embracing the venue year-round.
“We know Splash Planet is a significant and important visitor attraction in summer, but it needs to be viable.
“We’ve had a really strong start to the winter season so we’re hopeful this trial will prove to be worthwhile both in terms of generating income and providing something our community uses and enjoys.”
While 2025/26 was a good season for the water park, with consistently warm weather, the previous season was wet and cold. As a result, the park recorded a $326,000 loss and closed a month earlier than planned.
The park is currently open on weekends, with the council planning to fully open it on November 14.
Plans are also underway to bring Spooky Planet back for Halloween in October.
Illuminate Light and Sound ran from Thursday to Sunday, July 23 to 26, and July 30 to August 2.
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.