From giant interactive bells to the Farmers Santa Parade, Christmas in the City brings festive experiences to the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau.
Auckland’s city centre will come alive from November to January as Christmas in the City brings festive celebrations, markets, live entertainment and family-friendly activities to some of Tāmaki Makaurau’s most iconic spaces.
At the heart of the city's festive celebrations is Auckland Live’s Christmas in Aotea Square (Wednesday 2 – Monday 28 December), a vibrant destination where visitors can swing, play, create and celebrate together.
Christmas in Aotea Square features free events for tamariki and families; Everybody Eats at Christmas, a community lunch prepared by chefs and volunteers using rescued food; an outdoor screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas, complete with a festive costume parade; Battle Chorus Xmas, an all-ages choir challenge led by musical director Jason Te Mete; and Christmas Crafts with Lissy & Rudi.
Daniel Clarke, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited Director of Auckland Live, says “Christmas is about connection. Working with our partners across the city centre, we’re creating welcoming festive spaces where people can spend time together, join in and discover something new.”
On Saturday 21 November, Heart of the City, Precinct Properties and Auckland Live bring celebrations to Te Komititanga with the spectacular lighting of Te Manaaki, Auckland's Giant Christmas Tree, marking the start of a month-long programme of free performances, cultural experiences and family activities, including a candlelit gospel choir and traditional Japanese drummers.
The Farmers Santa Parade returns to Queen Street for its 93rd year on Sunday 29 November, featuring spectacular floats, marching bands and festive surprises, followed by Santa’s Party in Aotea Square, with a Paddington Bear stage show and live entertainment.
Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson says the events connect the city’s public spaces, cultural venues and businesses at a key time of year.
“Auckland’s city centre is at its best when its streets, venues and businesses are part of the same experience. From the Santa Parade and Te Manaaki to Christmas markets and live performances, there is something to discover around every corner.
“These celebrations bring people together, and they also support the retailers, hospitality venues and local businesses that give the city centre its character.”
From Aotea Square and down Queen Street, Angus Muir's Christmas City Lights will illuminate the city centre, while each of his five-metre tall interactive Christmas totems bring festive public art and playful discovery. Markets in Takutai Square, Te Komititanga, Karanga Plaza and on Karangahape Road will offer handcrafted gifts, local products and seasonal treats.
Karangahape Road's 12 Days of Kristmas on K Road will reveal a new Christmas window each day from 1 to 12 December, showcasing local artists, designers and independent businesses. SkyCity's Christmas Season sees the return of Santa's Magical Wonderland, while Precinct’s Santa’s Studio by Commercial Bay offers an elevated portrait experience for families and visitors.
Central City Library will host free Christmas crafts, exhibitions and hands-on activities for all ages, while South American cultural celebrations will be held at the Ellen Melville Centre.
Rounding out the celebrations, Vector Lights will illuminate Auckland Harbour Bridge with a Christmas light and sound show inspired by the children's book We Wish You a Kiwi Christmas.
Auckland's stages join the festivities, with The Civic hosting A Christmas Carol, Love Actually in Concert and The Holiday in Concert, while the Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre presents the Royal New Zealand Ballet's The Sleeping Beauty. Audiences can also enjoy Auckland Philharmonia's Christmas Cheer and Tunes 4 Tamariki: Kirihimete, alongside Auckland Choral's annual performance of Handel's Messiah.
With City Rail Link services operating through the city centre for the first festive season, getting between celebrations will be easier, with Te Waihorotiu Station a short walk from Aotea Square, Queen Street, Te Komititanga and other festive attractions.
