One of New Zealand’s most-loved musicians, Bic Runga, will headline Auckland city centre’s Christmas celebrations with a special live performance at the iconic Te Manaaki Christmas tree light-up.
The free performance forms a special launch event presented by Heart of the City, Precinct Properties and Auckland Live, supported by Auckland Council Events.
The iconic eighteen-metre Christmas tree will light up Te Komititanga, marking the start of a month-long programme featuring entertainment, seasonal experiences and special events across Auckland’s city centre.
Built around the idea that Christmas is the perfect excuse to go a little extra, the programme invites Aucklanders to embrace the season’s indulgences.
From candlelit gospel choirs and high-energy Japanese drummers to Christmas bonbons, festive cocktails, and unexpected retailer experiences, there’s every reason to say yes to that extra treat, spontaneous purchase, or festive night out.
Three major live events will anchor the celebrations in Te Komititanga:
- Christmas Tree Light-Up, Saturday 21 November, 7.30 pm: Bic Runga will headline the launch night with a special live performance as Auckland’s iconic Christmas tree is illuminated. The festive gathering will mark the official beginning of Heart of the City’s Christmas programme.
- Candlelight Gospel Choir for Auckland City Mission, Saturday 28 November, 7.30 pm: A soulful evening of gospel music and much-loved Christmas carols will fill Te Komititanga. Visitors will be invited to make a gold-coin donation for a candle, creating a sea of light, with proceeds supporting Auckland City Mission – Te Tāpui Atawhai.
- Drummers Drumming, Sunday 13 December, 7.30 pm: Local Japanese drumming group Tamashii Taiko will bring powerful rhythms, movement and traditional percussion to the square for a high-energy festive finale.
The celebrations won’t stop at the stage. Businesses around Te Komititanga will join the fun with special-edition products, seasonal menu creations and one-off experiences spread across November and December.
From Christmas-inspired cocktails and sweet treats with a distinctly Kiwi twist to creative gifting surprises, festive beauty experiences and a little magic for the whole family, there will be plenty of reasons to make another trip into Auckland’s city centre.
And while there are still a few surprises under wraps, here’s a little taste of what’s to come:
- Something sweet: Honest Chocolat, J’aime Macarons and Bluebells Cakery are among the businesses putting their own spin on festive indulgence.
- A festive twist: Origine, a Bistro by Ahi, Reign & Pour and Advieh are cooking up unexpected takes on Christmas favourites.
- A little extra sparkle: Ecoya, MorArt and The Art of Nails will bring fresh inspiration to Christmas gifting and festive preparations.
Other established city-centre festivities will add to the atmosphere, including Santa’s Magical Wonderland at SkyCity from 14 November, the Farmers Santa Parade on 29 November, the opening of Commercial Bay’s Santa Studio on 1 December, Auckland Live’s Christmas in Aotea Square from 2 – 28 December, and Christmas markets at Te Komititanga on 12 December.
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