It's hoped a re-branded Whakatane street carnival will boost visitor numbers to the Bay.

'Hot Summer Nights', formerly the 'Jumping Tuna Street Fiesta' will see part of the Strand closed off later this month, for a night of music and entertainment.

The event took a break last summer due to a lack of funding, but is returning following a grant from the Lion Foundation.

Event Coordinator Mike van der Boom says in 2008, the event attracted 6000 people.

He says the idea is to put on an event not just for locals, but to attract visitors to Whakatane.