Auckland's Art in the Dark festival cancelled due to lack of funding

Art in the Dark: 2012. Photo / Elizabeth Clarkson

After five years of lighting up Auckland's Western Park, Art in the Dark will not go ahead this year due to a lack of funding.

The free event was considered a highlight of Auckland's arts calendar, featuring works by both local and international artists.

More than 150,000 visitors were drawn to the night-time festival, which has been held every November since 2009.

Art in the Dark: 2012

Art in the Dark: 2013

Art in the Dark: 2013

But the Art in the Dark Trust says the event will return in November 2016.

'We would like to thank our funding bodies, artists, sponsors and the entertainment industry for their extraordinary support that has meant we have been able to create a truly unique and memorable event for Auckland' says creative director Celia Harrison.

- nzherald.co.nz