The annual Christmas window display at Auckland's iconic department store Smith & Caughey's has been unveiled!

Every year the iconic Queen Street department store's windows are filled with animated Christmas decorations, twinkling lights, trimmed trees, and much more, all based on a special Christmas storybook tale. This year's delightful Christmas animation is based on the fabulous children's picture book "The Adventures of Hutu & Kawa" by Avis Acres. A bestselling classic children's book from the 1950s, it follows the story of two Pōhutukawa babies, Hutu and Kawa, who live in New Zealand’s very own Christmas tree, the pōhutukawa, and set out on a canoe adventure making many forest friends along the way. This reveal marks the beginning of Smith & Caughey's final season of iconic Christmas experiences so be sure not to miss out on this last chance to see a staple of Auckland Christmas.

Santa's Enchanted Forest experience, which eventuates in meeting Santa in his cosy cottage is also back for its final year from Saturday 9 of November, until Christmas Eve this 2024 with bookings available now. And be sure to start or end your visit by stocking up on decorations at their famous Christmas shoppe, filling Smith & Caughey's with extra Christmas cheer! 

Santa's Enchanted Forest Experience

Whether celebrating a child's first Christmas or following family tradition, a visit to Santa's Enchanted Forest at Smith & Caughey's is the perfect beginning to the festive season. Create wonderful memories that will be treasured forever, be sure to book in as this is Santa's last visit to Smith & Caughey's and is sure to be busy. 

One of Santa's Helpers will be waiting on the ground floor where they'll see you on your way to Santa's Enchanted Forest. Before making your way to meet Santa, explore the Enchanted Forest and see Santa's helpers getting ready for Christmas. Each child will receive a collectible Christmas tree bauble gift from Santa and a keepsake photo with him. 

Book your experience here.

enchanted forest 4 S&C 2024

Smith & Caughey's Christmas Shoppe

In the lead up to Christmas, Smith & Caughey's has got you covered for gift ideas as well as the ultimate decorations.

Head in and immerse yourself in a bit of festive spirit and admire the stunning range of festive ornaments, decorative Santas and more!

S&C Xmas shoppe

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 at weekends.
  • $2 per hour on weekends (max of $10) at Victoria Street car park.
  • $2 per hour on weekends (max of $12) at the Civic car park.
Free weekend child fares

Get $2 parking per hour to a maximum of $15 on evenings and weekends at the Downtown car park. Find out more

Kids ride free on public transport on weekends and public holidays. Find out more.

Last updated: 01 November 2023