"We have a great sense of pride and culture in this city and to showcase this on a national and international level through the One Love Festival is so rewarding."
In order to cater to the festival's growing popularity, Mr Alvarez said he was increasing the number of tickets available in 2017 to 20,000.
"It's not that we are choosing to increase the capacity, it's that we have to increase the capacity to keep up with demand. We've been overwhelmed with the festival's popularity, both nationally and internationally.
"All accommodation in Tauranga and the surrounding areas was fully booked. The Strand along Tauranga's waterfront was buzzing throughout the whole weekend. It's an awesome opportunity for local businesses."
Mr Alvarez said One Love attracted festival-goers from all corners of the world, from Australia and the United States to Germany and Jamaica.
"Reggae is all about love, positive vibes and standing up for what you believe in. When you are at the One Love Festival, you can feel that throughout the crowd and the performers. It creates an electric atmosphere."
The festival's line up included Rebel Souljahz, Fiji, The Green, Spawnbreezie, Josh Wawa, Katchafire,Sammy J, Tomorrow People, Sons of Zion and Aaradhna.
This year's festival attracted controversy, attracting a large number of noise complaints from around the city, mostly from the Brookfield and Pillans Point suburbs. Investigations by the council showed the organisers were complying with noise regulations.
A council spokeswoman said a resource consent application for the 2017 festival had not yet been filed.
''I understand they have hired a planner to help them put their application together... But until we receive that we don't know what they will be asking or what the format will be,'' she said.
Tickets are on sale from August 4 at 7am from www.onelovefestival.co.nz.
