There’s something magical about winter nights in Takapuna, and this July, that magic returns in spectacular style. After drawing record-breaking crowds of more than 60,000 visitors last year, the much-loved Takapuna Winter Lights Festival is back, set to once again transform the heart of the North Shore into a glowing winter wonderland. Running from Thursday 30 July to Sunday 2 August, this free, family-friendly festival promises four unforgettable evenings of light, creativity and connection.

From the moment the sun sets, Takapuna comes alive. Streets, parks and public spaces are illuminated with immersive light installations, transforming familiar places into something altogether extraordinary. It’s a celebration of art, community and the simple joy of coming together – something that feels more important than ever during the cooler months.

At the centre of this year’s festival is internationally renowned light artist Angus Muir, whose creative direction continues to shape the event into one of Auckland’s most visually captivating experiences. Working alongside local producer Dan Move, who knows the Takapuna community inside out, this year’s programme blends world-class creativity with a distinctly local flavour.

“Winter Lights is all about bringing people together and creating a sense of wonder in the middle of winter,” Dan says. “For four nights, Takapuna becomes a vibrant celebration of art, light and community, creating shared experiences and memorable moments for people of all ages.”

That spirit of connection is what makes Winter Lights so much more than just an event. It’s a chance to slow down, rug up, and rediscover Takapuna through a different lens.

This year’s festival footprint spans Hurstmere Green, central Hurstmere Road, Potters Park and Waiwharariki Anzac Square, creating a flowing trail of activity and colour through central Takapuna. Along the way, visitors can expect a mix of returning favourites and exciting new installations. Large-scale interactive sculptures invite you to step inside the art, play with light, and experience it up close. Each piece is designed to spark imagination and curiosity, appealing to both children and adults alike.

As in previous years, Takapuna Winter Lights has a strong community focus, activating a vision for students of all ages to participate in and engage with art. Local schools and their students will be proudly represented, with displays from Takapuna Primary and Belmont Primary schools and Campbells Bay and Northcote Early Learning Centres. There will also be a wonderful local pūrākau, as told by Danny Te Rakai Watson.

Adding to the atmosphere are live performances from Takapuna Grammar School’s talented young musicians and performers. Showcasing homegrown talent, these acts bring energy and vibrancy to the main stage, reinforcing the festival’s strong local roots.

And no Channel reader needs reminding that a great night out isn’t complete without something delicious to eat. With more than 130 places to dine across Takapuna, there’s every opportunity to turn your Winter Lights visit into a full evening out, whether that’s a quick bite, a family dinner, or a lingering dessert stop to warm up afterwards.

A unique part of the Winter Lights experience is the atmosphere created by the crowd itself, and this year, organisers are inviting everyone to become part of the spectacle. Visitors are encouraged to “light up” by wearing bright outfits or glowing accessories, adding to the visual magic throughout the festival. Think fairy lights, glow sticks, light-up crowns, or creative pieces picked up from local stallholders on the night. It’s a simple idea, but one that will transform the entire event, turning streets into a sea of colour and making every visitor part of the show.

Following the incredible success of previous years, organisers have once again introduced timed entry sessions across the four nights. While the event remains completely free, visitors will need to secure a session ticket in advance, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Tickets will be available from Friday 3 July, and they come with an extra incentive. By scanning your free ticket at the Prize Entry Booth during your session, you’ll automatically go in the draw to win a $1,000 Takapuna shopping spree. It’s just one more reason to gather your friends or family and make a night of it.

Behind the scenes, Takapuna Winter Lights is a true community effort. Led by the Takapuna Business Association, the festival is made possible through the support of Auckland Council Events and a wide network of sponsors, funding partners and local businesses. Takapuna Business Association CEO Terence Harpur says the backing of sponsors is vital in delivering such a large-scale, free event for the public.

“At a time when communities need opportunities to connect more than ever, their support allows us to create this much-loved experience,” he says. “Winter Lights brings people together, lifts community spirit, and gives families, friends and visitors a chance to enjoy something truly special during the winter months.”

It’s this combination of creativity, collaboration and local pride that continues to drive the festival’s success and keeps people coming back year after year.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or making it an annual tradition, Takapuna Winter Lights offers something for everyone. Wander through glowing pathways, discover interactive art, enjoy live music, and soak up the atmosphere of a community coming together. Wrap up warm, gather your crew, and prepare to see Takapuna in a whole new light.

Takapuna Winter Lights
Thursday 30 July – Sunday 2 August,
5pm – 10pm nightly
Free entry (session tickets required) – available from 3 July
For updates and more information, visit winterlights.nz