Vector Lights will illuminate at midnight on May 16 to kick off global recognition of the UNESCO International Day of Light.
 
This year will see the first annual International Day of Light celebrated in more than 60 countries around the world.
 
The day aims to improve public understanding of how light and light-based technologies touch the daily lives of everybody, emphasising the role of energy efficiency and sustainable development in improving quality of life and limiting energy waste.
 
May 16 was chosen as the day the first laser was used, a light technology that has brought advances in countless fields.
 
Places as diverse as Bulgaria and Cameroon will have events to mark the day, but with New Zealand’s time zone advantage, Vector Lights for the International Day of Light will be the very first dedicated event on the 16^th of May.
 
Vector spokesman Richard Llewellyn says the International Day of Lights aspirations perfectly align with the goals for Vector Lights.
 
“Vector Lights was designed to be an evolving showcase of new energy solutions that help illustrate what a more sustainable energy future can look like. 
 
“Being able to use the lights to participate in a global celebration of the transformative possibilities of light and energy technology is about the best use I can think of for Vector Lights.”
 
John Harvey, a spokesman for the New Zealand International Day of Light organising committee, and the Dodd-Walls Centre for Photonic and Quantum Technologies, says that light based technologies are particularly important for developing New Zealand’s economic base.
 
“Photonics permeates every aspect of the economy, playing key roles in manufacturing, entertainment, transport and medical technologies, while also enabling sustainable development and new agricultural technologies.”
 
 
The show on 16 May will reprise the incredible launch programme, purpose-designed by Auckland company Assembly, with music by Mahuia Bridgeman-Cooper.
 
Other New Zealand events to mark the International Day of Light can be found at: https://www.lightday.org/events by clicking on the ‘New Zealand’ button.
 
What: Vector Lights for the International Day of Light
Where: Auckland Harbour Bridge
When: 16 May, at 12.01am and from 6pm to 11pm
Viewing: go to vector.co.nz/lights for audio, streaming, and to see the best vantage points to experience Vector Lights live.