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Avoid the stress of entertaining this festive season and dine in the City Centre.
The most magical time of the year has arrived, with spectacular decorations lighting up the city centre!
From whimsical lights to interactive totems and the return of the giant Christmas tree at Te Komititanga Square, there’s even more magic to discover. Whether you’re catching up with loved ones or hunting for the perfect gift, don’t forget to pause and soak it all in—these dazzling displays are made for memory-making.
Discover what's sparkling
Christmas Totems
16 NOV, 2026 - 27 DEC 2026 | Aotea Square
Five towering interactive columns created by artist Angus Muir bring festive magic to Christmas in the Square, inviting kids to press buttons, call elves, and watch their selfies light up as they uncover each joyful surprise.
Giant Christmas tree
21 NOV, 2026 - 4 JAN, 2027 | Te Komititanga
While Te Manaaki remains at Te Komititanga until 4 January 2027, be sure to catch the festive lightshow and music before it ends on 26 December 2026!
A dazzling 18.4metre Christmas tree adorned with thousands of lights, pōhutukawa flowers, and baubles, shines nightly from 6pm with a light show every ten minutes. Adding to the magic, cheerful Christmas music fills the air Thursday to Saturday, playing for three minutes at the top of each hour between 6 and 9pm.
Vector Lights for a Kiwi Christmas
17 DEC, 2026 - 26 DEC, 2026 | Auckland Harbour Bridge
Vector Lights is celebrating the festive season with a dynamic light and sound show based on the New Zealand children's book, ‘We Wish You a Kiwi Christmas’ by Lynette Evans with music by Pio Terei. Spot Little Kiwi on the Auckland Harbour Bridge, who dreams of riding through the skies with Santa, and is surprised one Christmas Eve to come across Santa with a broken-down sleigh.
Sing along to the lyrics in both English and Māori and watch Little Kiwi finally get her wish!
Magic Mail Boxes
Make the Season Magical with a Chance to Win! Little ones can post their wish lists into one of two enchanting Magic Mailboxes (found in One Queen Courtyard and by the Level One Concierge) for a chance to win a $1,000 Commercial Bay voucher
Swinging Bells
Aotea Square | 2 - 28 DEC | 8:00am - 10:00pm
Add a little joy to your day with Swinging Bells, a playful interactive installation lighting up Aotea Square. Climb aboard one of the giant illuminated swings and watch as every movement sparks a magical mix of light, colour and festive sound.
Festive lamp posts
11 NOV, 2026 - 5 JAN, 2027 | Along Queen Street
Festive shapes pops up on lamp posts along Queen Street, casting a warm glow that transforms city streets into a magical wonderland. Perfect for evening strolls, they bring seasonal joy to every corner they illuminate.
Your guide to accessing the city centre
With lots to do and see in the city, it’s helpful to know how best to get in and travel around.
We have guides on the best ways to get in, out and around on public transport - it's cheaper and easier than you think!
If you're driving in, here is a guide on which car parking buildings to use when visiting different areas of the city centre - whether it be Downtown, the waterfront or Midtown
Discover more Christmas 2026 highlights here.
Enjoy two hours of free parking or $5 evening and weekend rates. Find out more.
Ride on public transport from as little as $2 each way. Find out more.
Last updated:
13 November 2026
