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Check out these city centre spots to indulge and relax into a long lunch.
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
Queen Street columns
30 NOV, 2026 - 5 JAN, 2027 | Along Queen Street
Five towering interactive columns created by artist Angus Muir bring festive magic to Queen Street, 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!
Christmas Angels
17 NOV, 2025 - 5 JAN, 2026 | Elliott Street
Look up as you’re wandering up Elliott Street to see Christmas angels floating between the beautiful trees which line the street.
Doves & Globes
7 NOV, 2025 - 5 JAN, 2026 | Vulcan Lane & Durham Lane
Enjoy the gorgeous and much-loved dove and globe installations and see how the globes change colours through the day. You'll find them on Vulcan Lane and Durham Street East.
Fairy lights
4 NOV, 2025 - 5 JAN, 2026 | High Street & Vulcan Lane corners
In the early evening, sit outside at one of the great Vulcan Lane or High Street bars and eateries, and soak up the atmosphere beneath the gorgeous, glowing fairy lights.
Neon Star
24 NOV, 2025 - 5 JAN, 2026 | Aotea Square
This cool neon star looks awesome during the day and even better at night. Perfect for a photo opportunity, you'll find the star in Aotea Square.
Neon Tree
9 NOV, 2025 - 5 JAN, 2026 | O'Connell Street
A neon tree lights up O’Connell Street with bold festive flair, blending modern design with Christmas spirit. It’s a vibrant alternative for those looking to celebrate the season with a twist on tradition.
Christmas banners
17 NOV, 2025 - 5 JAN, 2026 | From Lorne Street to Victoria Park
Bright Christmas banners are popping up across the city centre - from Lorne Street to Victoria Park - adding colour and joy to the season as they flutter above the city streets.
9 NOV, 2025 - 5 JAN, 2026 | Queen Street
The historic Farmers Building will glow with uplights this season, adding a warm, radiant touch to the city’s Christmas celebrations!
Queen Street Christmas columns
Christmas tree (Image Credits: Sacha Stejko)
Queen Street Christmas columns
Christmas Pavilion Aotea Square
Image credits: Jinki Cambronero
Christmas Pavilion Aotea Square
Image credits: Jinki Cambronero
Image credits: Sacha Stejko
Christmas Baubles (Image Credits: Sacha Stejko)
Christmas Baubles (Image Credits: Sacha Stejko)
Christmas tree (Image Credits: Sacha Stejko)
Christmas columns
Delicious festive eats
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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
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:
29 October 2026
