Part of Christmas in the City Centre
More detailsAuckland is set to shine brighter than ever before with the official debut of Te Manaaki — Auckland's giant Christmas tree ready to illuminate Te Komititanga in lower Queen Street with over 10,000 sparkling LED lights!
On Saturday, 23rd November from 7-8.30pm, join in on the very first lighting of Te Manaaki. Whether young or young at heart, everyone is invited to come together, celebrate and enjoy the magic that only Christmas can bring.
The free festive event kicks off with an exciting lineup featuring Anika Moa, Tami Neilson, and the Auckland Youth Choir— each bringing their own special touch to the evening. Families, friends and whānau are encouraged to get in early to experience the entertainment and enjoy an evening out in the city. There will be plenty of great vantage points to view the tree and be part of the event, both within Te Komititanga square and Commercial Bay. With a number of public transport options, and affordable parking nearby access to the city centre is convenient and easy.
"I am a bit of a Christmas nut, so am very excited to celebrate kicking off the season with my family at the tree lighting" - Tami Neilson
The evening’s host Anika Moa will charm and entertain the crowd while Tami Neilson’s powerful vocals will captivate everyone in the square. The Auckland Youth Choir will add to the festive spirit with timeless carols that people know and love, with Christmas characters bringing extra joy and fun for all.
"I am looking forward to sharing this beautiful kaupapa with my tamariki. This is the start of a new tradition for Tāmaki Makaurau of celebrating Christmas, whānau and a city bought together with Aroha" - Anika Moa
This free event is a chance to come together, celebrate, and make new memories in the heart of the city. The night leads to the big moment: at sundown, Te Manaaki will burst with light for the first time. Against the twilight sky, this stunning tree will officially welcome the festive season to Auckland.
Whether you’re here for the music, the lights, or simply the festive spirit, it’s a night to celebrate together and be part of what makes the festive season in our city so special.
The celebrations don’t stop with Saturday night, providing the perfect excuse for a city centre staycation and a weekend of festivities for visitors. On Sunday 24th November, the beloved Farmers Santa Parade will wind its way through Auckland’s streets for the 91st time, spreading joy and wonder to everyone it passes. Families can also enjoy Smith & Caughey’s beautiful Christmas Windows. There’s also a heap of festive activities planned throughout the month – including Commercial Bay’s Magic Mail Machine, Christmas on Queen Street with pop up performances and more, ‘the Pav’ and Light Forest in Aotea Square, an artisan Christmas market in Wynyard Quarter and even Christmas sailing with Mrs Clause at the Maritime Museum.
The name Te Manaaki was generously gifted by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, with manaaki meaning respect, care and hospitality. The name reflects the values that make Auckland special — support for each other, the celebration of culture, and a commitment to community. The base of the tree, designed by Merania Kerehoma of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, draws from traditional Māori mahi toi (art) to honour the heritage and culture of Tāmaki Makaurau, celebrating both where we’ve come from and where we’re headed as a community.
Te Manaaki is a gift for the city from Heart of the City and Precinct Properties, with support from Auckland Council via the city centre targeted rate.
Park at the Downtown Car Park for $2 per hour to a maximum of $10 during evenings and weekends.