Auckland family favourite Takapuna’s Winter Lights Festival returns to light up the Shore again
Following a record-breaking 2025 festival that attracted more than 60,000 visitors across four nights, the free, family-friendly Takapuna Winter Lights is back.
Join the fun as Takapuna is transformed into a winter wonderland celebrating light art, local talent and community from Thursday 30 July to Sunday 2 August.
“Curated by internationally renowned light artist Angus Muir, the 2026 festival blends cutting-edge creativity with community spirit, creating an unforgettable winter experience for all ages”, says Terence Harpur, CEO of the Takapuna Business Association. “Thanks to our 2026 sponsors, we’re delighted to host our popular Winter Lights Festival once again. Last year we attracted visitors from across Auckland and further afield who came together to enjoy and celebrate the creativity, connection and community spirit of Takapuna, and we can’t wait to welcome them all back this year.”
Working with Angus Muir, long-term event producer and Takapuna local Dan Move says, “Winter Lights is all about bringing people together and creating a sense of wonder mid-Winter. For four nights, Takapuna is transformed into a vibrant celebration of art, light and community, creating shared experiences and memorable moments for people of all ages.”
Harpur says he is especially grateful to Auckland Council Events for their support that has ensured this iconic event is able to take place for 2026.
This year’s event will once again light up Hurstmere Green, Central Hurstmere Road, Potters Park and Waiwharariki Anzac Square with stunning immersive light installations and live performances. Returning favourites and new surprises include:
- Large-scale interactive lighting sculptures to mesmerise and inspire.
- Live performances from Takapuna Grammar School’s rising music and performance stars, bringing homegrown entertainment to the main stage.
- Family-friendly vibes with delicious food and playful installations
Light up and be in to win
Visitors are encouraged to get into the spirit of the festival by wearing their brightest outfits and glowing accessories.
“We’d love people to embrace the magic of Winter Lights and come wrapped up warm, with a little extra sparkle,” says Harpur. “Whether that’s fairy lights, glow sticks, a light-up crown or something fun from one of our stallholders, it all adds to the atmosphere. And with more than 130 places to eat and drink in Takapuna, there are plenty of ways to turn a visit to Winter Lights into a really special night out.”
Due to the event’s huge success in previous years, with record year-on-year crowds, the 2026 event has once again been divided into different sessions across the four nights, with tickets allocated for each to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. The event remains FREE for all to attend with allocated session tickets available from 3 July.
Plus all ticketholders will be into win a $1,000 Takapuna Shopping spree simply by scanning their free ticket at the Prize Entry Booth during their session time.
Takapuna Winter Lights 2026 continues to be a free event thanks to the generous support of Takapuna Business Association, Auckland Council Events, Angus Muir Design, Go Media and Barfoot & Thompson, and funding partners including the Aotearoa Gaming Trust, The Lion Foundation, Four Winds, North and South Trust, Pub Charity and Foundation North plus many local businesses.
“We can’t thank our sponsors and supporters enough,” says Harpur. ” At a time when communities need opportunities to connect more than ever, their support allows us to create this much-loved free event that brings people together, lifts community spirit and gives families, friends and visitors a chance to experience something truly special during the winter months.”
Details
- Hurstmere Green, Hurstmere Road, Potters Park & Waiwharariki Anzac Square, Takapuna
- Thursday 30 July – Sunday 2 Aug 2026 from 5pm to 10pm
- Free session tickets essential, available from 3 July
- Cashless event
- Light up and be in to win
For updates and full event info, visit www.winterlights.nz