All indications are the International Science Festival, held in Dunedin during the past week, is attracting more visitors from out of town, festival director Chris Green says.
While the final numbers of those attending the more than 100 events was not yet available, bookings for paid events showed at least a quarter were from out of town, he said.
"They came specifically for the festival from Christchurch or Wellington so it shows the awareness of the event is growing."
A highlight for Mr Green and many of the public were the events featuring Nasa astronaut Stephanie D. Wilson.
"Seeing her get involved with so many different groups, those with kids ... and the keynote for adults was a highlight."
Having many families attend a keynote address was also a first and the address and the science expo also drew many families on to the University of Otago campus for the first time, he said.
"All events were incredibly popular and well attended."
While the festival debrief would not be for another two weeks, his immediate impression was that everything ran the way the festival committee intended, he said.
"It was a great week, there were so many different activities that appealed to kids, workers, young professionals and families."
