After Dark - Nelson Arts Festival

Did you know that night doesn’t fall, it rises? That there are three grades of twilight? If you have ever wondered what goes on at night beyond the lit-up boundaries of our human world, then this special event, which explores the stories and themes in Annette Lees’ latest book, After Dark: Walking into the nights of Aotearoa, is for you. Ruru (owls) are likely to be our companions.

The evening will start just on dusk, when we will gather at one of Whakatū's most iconic treasures, The Brook Waimārama Sanctuary, for a special tour with acclaimed nonfiction author Annette Lees.

The evening will start with a special reading from Annette's latest book, After Dark, in the sanctuary's visitor centre. You will then head into the forest with Annette. Along the way, she will share knowledge with you about the forest and its creatures, the night sky, and ecological tales. During the walk we will explore our relationship to the night in the past and now. You will get a chance to share your own night-walking memories and listen to other’s tales.

The walk will involve following trails into the bush and requires a moderate level of mobility. Sturdy footwear is recommended.

This event is part of the 2022 Nelson Arts Festival.