Ninety-thousand solar-powered LED lights on the Auckland Harbour Bridge have lit up the sky tonight.
File photo. Photo: Supplied
Lines company Vector is paying for the $10 million project in a bid to better showcase the landmark.
The lights were switched on for the first time at 9.10pm for a six minute show accompanied by music.
Hundreds of people gathered at Little Shoal Bay to see them for the first time - including Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.
Ms Ardern said the lights would not only put Auckland on the map but the whole country.
#VectorLights pic.twitter.com/RhfWQQnFE0
— Teresa (@teresafromnz) January 27, 2018
Pretty bridge. #VectorLights pic.twitter.com/29FlLWkPAR
— Vaughan (@nzVorn) January 27, 2018
The lights will brighten up the bridge most nights of the year, with special configurations for different events.
Vector project manager Paul Cannin said planning started early last year with construction beginning in August.
"For Vector it's an opportunity, it's not just about the lights on the bridge, we've also installed a large solar panel down at Wynyard Quarter with a large scale utility battery so it's about showcasing new technology as well.
"These lights are going to be powered by the solar energy we collect during the day, so there will be no power bill," Mr Cannin said.
Auckland looking beautiful #VectorLights pic.twitter.com/adZpIzhTyc
— Auckland Council (@AklCouncil) January 27, 2018
The project is in partnership with Auckland Council and the Transport Agency.
