The neon landscape of Aotearoa’s urban centres has long been a visual hallmark of its vibrant culture, but few studios push the boundaries of light art as boldly as Neon54. Based in Auckland, this collective blends traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to create installations that transform streets into immersive canvases. Their work isn’t just decorative—it’s a statement, a dialogue with the city’s evolving identity. From temporary street art to permanent public installations, Neon54’s projects redefine how we experience light in public spaces, making them essential for anyone interested in contemporary art and urban design.

The studio’s origins trace back to a collaborative spirit that began in the early 2010s, when founders Tane Mahuta and Kai Whina—both experienced in neon fabrication—saw an opportunity to merge artistry with sustainability. Their first major commission was a 2016 installation for the Auckland City Council, where they repurposed old neon signs into a dynamic, solar-powered light trail along the waterfront. The project won a NZ Design Awards for Innovation, proving that even legacy materials could be reimagined with modern technology.

What sets Neon54 apart is their commitment to local storytelling through light. Many of their installations are rooted in Māori and Pacific narratives, using colour and form to honour cultural heritage. For example, their 2022 piece at the Te Papa Museum—a 30-metre-long neon tapestry depicting the journey of the Māori canoe Hōkūle’a—became a landmark in the museum’s permanent exhibition. The project was featured in National Geographic and drew over 50,000 visitors annually, illustrating how light art can bridge education and cultural pride.

Lighting isn’t just about aesthetics for Neon54; it’s a tool for social impact. Their 2023 initiative, Neon for Good, partners with community groups to install affordable, energy-efficient neon signs in schools and community centres. By using low-voltage LED technology, they reduce electricity costs by up to 70% compared to traditional neon, making their work accessible to low-income areas. The programme has already equipped 12 schools across North Island with custom-designed light installations, with plans to expand nationwide.

Technological innovation is another cornerstone of Neon54’s approach. They collaborate with University of Auckland researchers to develop adaptive lighting systems that respond to real-time data—such as pedestrian movement or weather conditions. For instance, their 2021 project at Viaduct Harbour used motion-sensing technology to create a dynamic light display that only activated when people gathered, reducing energy waste by 40%. This kind of precision aligns with Aotearoa’s growing focus on sustainable urban development.

While Neon54’s work spans public art, corporate branding, and festival installations, their most distinctive projects often emerge from unexpected collaborations. Their 2022 commission for Festivale in Tauranga involved transforming a disused industrial warehouse into a neon-lit „garden of dreams,” complete with interactive light trails that guided visitors through a surreal, dreamlike experience. The project was shortlisted for the Asia Pacific Design Awards and became a viral sensation, attracting international media attention.

For those eager to explore Neon54’s vision firsthand, their studio in visit the website offers a curated selection of their work, along with workshops on neon fabrication and sustainable lighting design. Visitors can also join their annual Neon Festival, held in Auckland each summer, where the public gets to interact with their installations in a live, evolving environment. The festival has grown from a small showcase to a multi-day event drawing thousands, making it one of the most anticipated light art gatherings in Aotearoa.

• Over 50% of Neon54’s installations incorporate solar-powered or motion-sensing technology, reducing energy consumption by up to 70%.
• Their 2022 Hōkūle’a tapestry project became the most visited permanent exhibition installation at Te Papa Museum, with over 50,000 annual visitors.
• Through Neon for Good, they’ve installed over 12 community lighting projects across North Island, benefiting low-income schools and centres.
• Their 2023 Viaduct Harbour project achieved a 40% reduction in energy usage by using adaptive lighting responsive to pedestrian activity.
• Neon54 has collaborated with the University of Auckland on research into bioluminescent materials, with potential applications in future public art.