Free things to do
The most magical time of the year has arrived in the city centre, with spectacular decorations lighting up the streets—now featuring brand-new festive additions for 2025!
From whimsical lights to bold baubles 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.
What's new in 2025?
Queen Street columns
30 NOV, 2025 - 5 JAN, 2026 | 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.
Festive lamp posts
5 NOV, 2025 - 5 JAN, 2026 | Along Queen Street
The same festive shapes from Aotea Square’s Christmas pavilion 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.
Returning favourites
21 NOV, 2025 - 4 JAN, 2026 | Te Komititanga Square
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.
Giant Baubles
8 NOV, 2025 - 3 JAN, 2026 | Te Komititanga Square
With the tallest reaching six metres in height, it's hard to miss these baubles in Te Komititanga. Take a moment between shopping to grab a cute photo of the family.
27 NOV, 2025 - 22 DEC, 2026 | Aotea Square
Step into the dazzling pop-up pavilion illuminated by 900 sparkling LED lights at the centre of Aotea Square! Auckland Live’s Christmas in Aotea Square is back for 2025, offering a joyful lineup of free live music, vibrant visual art, karaoke, circus performances, and holiday fun for the whole family.
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
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)
See more Christmas 2025 festivities here.
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:
21 November 2025
