One of Auckland’s most popular winter events is set to return later this month, with organisers urging people to secure their free tickets early after every session sold out during last year’s record-breaking festival.
Takapuna Winter Lights returns from 30 July to 2 August, transforming the heart of Takapuna into a vibrant celebration of light, art, entertainment and community across four evenings.
More than 60,000 people attended the festival in 2025, prompting organisers to once again introduce free pre-booked session tickets to manage visitor numbers and provide a safer, more enjoyable experience for everyone.
The allocated arrival times are designed to spread visitors across each evening, helping reduce congestion while allowing families and festival-goers to explore the installations at a comfortable pace. Organisers expect demand to remain high and are encouraging people to book well in advance.
Curated by internationally recognised light artist Angus Muir, this year’s festival will feature an expanded programme of immersive light displays, interactive sculptures and creative installations throughout Hurstmere Green, Hurstmere Road, Potters Park and Waiwharariki Anzac Square.
Visitors can also enjoy live performances by students from Takapuna Grammar School, family-friendly entertainment, interactive experiences and a wide range of food vendors alongside more than 130 cafés, restaurants and bars throughout Takapuna.
Festival organisers say returning favourites will be joined by new installations and experiences designed to encourage people to slow down, explore the town centre and connect with one another during the winter season.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, attendees are encouraged to wear illuminated clothing, fairy lights and glowing accessories as part of the event.
Everyone who scans their ticket at the festival’s Prize Entry Booth during their allocated session will automatically go into the draw to win a $1,000 Takapuna Shopping Spree, providing an added incentive to support local businesses.
The festival continues to be delivered through a partnership between the Takapuna Business Association, Auckland Council Events, Angus Muir Design, Go Media, Barfoot & Thompson and a range of community funding organisations and local businesses.
For Māori, events such as Takapuna Winter Lights contribute to vibrant community spaces where whānau can gather, celebrate creativity and enjoy shared experiences during the Matariki and winter season. They also support local businesses and hospitality operators by bringing thousands of visitors into the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau’s North Shore.
Takapuna Winter Lights runs from Thursday 30 July to Sunday 2 August, between 5pm and 10pm each evening. Entry is free, but allocated session tickets are required. The event will operate as a cashless festival.
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