There’s nothing quite like Christmas in the city centre, with great shopping, festive decorations and entertainment bringing life to our spaces.
This year head down to Te Komititanga, where Queen Street meets the waterfront for a month of free open air Christmas performances and large, colourful decorations.
Running from 24 November - 24 December 2023 you can enjoy festive entertainment from 12pm-2pm and 4pm-6pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and 12pm-2pm on Sundays.
Back for its second year, check out the fabulous Christmas Pavilion - 'The Pav' - which will come to life with different artists and performers. From jazz bands and Irish dancers to a trio of Santas, the Grinch on a unicycle, magicians and more. Plus, check out the giant Christmas baubles (the largest is 6 metres high!) and the illuminating light forest for some great 'gram content.
Keep an eye out also for festive-themed roving performers moving around the square including stilt walkers, Christmas drag queens, jugglers, Christmas elves and hula hoopers - there is something to surprise and delight all ages!
The weekly performance schedule can be found below and onsite in Te Komititanga – and is subject to change. If the weather is too wet, sessions may be cancelled.
Week five performance schedule
Wednesday, 20 December
12pm - 2pm: The Madelines, Lucky May Trio and stilt walkers
4pm - 6pm: Ringmaster show & Jazzing Jingle Bells
Thursday, 21 December
12pm - 2pm: Sounds of the Shore choir, Norris Dance Academy and stilt walkers
4pm - 6pm: Twisting the Swing, the Madelines & stilt walkers
Friday, 22 December
12pm - 2pm: The Madelines, ringmaster show, circus show & stilt walkers
4pm - 6pm: Dance show, Brazilian Divas & drummer
Saturday, 23 December
12pm - 2pm: Reindeer and fairy childrens show, saxaphone performance, the Grinch on a unicycle & face painters
4pm - 6pm: Bhangra Fit & Christmas musicians
Sunday, 24 December
12am - 2pm: Gospel choir, the Fleurelles & free Christmas treats!
Christmas in Te Komititanga is brought to you by Auckland Council and Heart of the City and is supported by the city centre targeted rate.
It's easy to get in, out and around
Getting around the city centre is easier, and cheaper than some may think! Here are some parking and transport hacks to remember when you're coming in.
- Kids ride free on public transport on weekends and public holidays.
- $2 per hour on weekends (max of $10) at Victoria Street car park.
- $2 per hour on weekends (max of $15) at the Downtown car park.