The Christmas countdown is on and the city centre is bustling with festive activity building up to the big day! With free festive film screenings, sparkling light shows, atmospheric Christmas concerts, festive feasting and so much more happening all over the city, merry-making has never been easier! Check out our guide to making the most of the run up to Christmas this year & bask all the festive spirit the city centre has to offer.
Thursday 19th December
Live Music | Takutai Square | 12PM
What better way to spread cheer, than by singing loud for all to hear? Britomart has lined up some of Aotearoa's rising musical stars to serenade you & yours this festive season
Friday 20th December
Park Hyatt Festive High Tea | Park Hyatt | Every day until Jan 26th
Toast to the festive season in style at the Park Hyatt this Christmas and New Year with their Festive High Tea offering, specially curated to give you that silly-season feeling! Perfectly put-together little sweets, eats and treats have been created by executive Pastry Chef, Callum Liddicoat and his team, as they bring the spirit of Christmas to the Park Hyatt's beautiful Living Room, the perfect place to unwind and relax or catch up with friends with picturesque views, where nostalgia and modern merge.
Sunday 22nd December
Scotty's Christmas Spectacular Show | Every Saturday & Sunday from 7-22 Dec | 4pm, 5pm & 6pm
Join SkyCity for an interactive show starring Scotty Sky Tower, his best gingerbread friends and dancers. A beloved tradition on Auckland's Christmas calendar, this unforgettable show promises festive fun for families & entertainment enthusiasts alike.
The World's Highest Postbox | 22 Nov - 24 Dec
Make a trip to send away any last-minute wishes to the North Pole! Make one-of-a-kind holiday memories and soar to the top of Tamaki Makaurau to post wishlists to Santa from the world’s highest letterbox. From sparkling views to hands-on holiday fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at the Sky Tower this jolly season.
Monday 23rd December
Merry Merry Makers | Ellen Melville Centre | 10AM - 4PM
Drop in & join the fun on this free, Whānau-friendly day, packed with Christmas cheer, creativity and connection!
This event focuses on the joy of handmade gift-giving while highlighting eco-friendly practices like reusing and upcycling materials. It’s designed to bring all ages together in a safe, engaging space where you will feel encouraged and inspired. Check out what’s achievable with simple tools and materials, you will leave with unique designs, feeling ready for Christmas with table-toppers, collaged Xmas cards, gift tags and stamped wrapping paper.
Enjoy live Music at Midday with Khushi, a talented singer-songwriter and multiple activity stations with tricks tips and hands-on guidance from experienced artist and facilitator, Alex.
Tuesday 24th December
Christmas Eve Dining | Multiple Locations
Make a night of it with these festive special menus popping up around the city, specially curated to get you in the spirit of the season - without the washing up! Visit DeBretts Kitchen to start your festive day right with their delicious Christmas breakfast menu for just $45 per person! If you're looking for sparkling waterfront views, the Harbourside Ocean Bar & Grill are offering an exceptional Christmas Eve menu to celebrate the season, which includes all the classics - Raisin & Apple Stuffed Turkey Breast - and of course, Berry Pavlova. FISH Restaurant are embracing the decadence of Christmas with a 3 or 4-course sharing menu. From crispy tempura oysters to beef wellington and herb crusted lamb - drool-worthy!