Auckland’s Christmas Must-do’s 2021
Auckland borders are now open and we can’t wait to visit the City of Sails once again! It’s time to explore the best activities that Tamaki Makaurau has to offer this summer so whether you’re travelling for work or pleasure, you know how to make the most of the sunny days you’re here.
Are you getting ready for the festive season? Or maybe you’re preparing to visit family and want some family-friendly activities to tire out the little ones? We have all the entertainment ideas you need in this guide to spending Christmas (and summer!) in Auckland.
Get your jolly on with Christmas themed activities!
Deck the halls! It’s time to experience Christmas in all its glory – and Auckland does Christmas right. Take your little ones to experience the magic of Santa’s Enchanted Forest at Smith & Caughey’s. See Santa’s helpers preparing for Christmas, meet the big man himself for a photo, and collect a special collectable bauble when you give him your wishlist! On your way out, check out their famous window display – this year is called “The Fairies’ Night Before Christmas.”
While you’re shopping up a storm in Commercial Bay, take your kids (big or small!) to post their letters to Santa at Santa’s Mail Machine. Located inside the shopping centre, you’ll love writing your wish list at one of the special mail stations and watching your letter be posted to the North Pole through the impressive pipes and tubes that make up the magical machine!
Last, but not least, is the headline attraction at the Christmas Festival in the Heart of the City – the Christmas Light Show at Te Komititanga. The show takes you on a journey to the North Pole, Santa’s workshop, and help Santa spread Christmas joy on his sleigh! The light show is projected onto the iconic Chief Post Office (Te Komititanga) in Auckland’s CBD, covering the entire building at 55 metres wide and 32 metres high. Talk about impressive! The show runs regularly from 8:45 pm to 11:00 pm daily between December 3rd and Christmas Eve so make sure you don’t miss out!
Staying in Auckland for a night or more? Check in to one of our fantastic hotels and experience the VR hospitality that we’re known for. Whether you’re looking for affordable, quality accommodation or something more luxe, one of our seven Auckland properties is sure to delight! Relax and unwind this Summer in the city centre or be close to the action near the airport, we can’t wait to have you.
Enjoy a Central Auckland adventure with these top summer picks!
Experience Auckland’s finest with these fantastic summer activities sure to excite every visitor! Catch some live jazz music at the iconic hidden bar, Caretaker, from 9:00 pm Sunday to Tuesday. Be sure to enjoy one of their personalised cocktails while you’re there!
Spend the day exploring the many delights of Devonport by taking a short scenic ferry ride from the CBD. With fantastic food and a lovely beach, there’s plenty to enjoy in Devonport. Take the 20-minute walk from the coast up to Maungaūika (North Head Historic Reserve) and explore the WWII defences including tunnels and numerous guns that were ready to defend Auckland’s harbour in 1941.
Take a picnic out to Western Springs Park and enjoy the serene lake and easy walkways while the kids run around freely. Why not take some bread to feed the swans and ducks but watch out for the geese. Set up your picnic spot by the newly built playground featuring ecology themes and some pretty awesome slides.
If you’re basing your stay in Auckland, why not stay with us in one of our four central hotels – VR Queen St, The Quadrant Hotel & Suites, VR Auckland City, or Ascotia Off Queen? Our wonderful staff will be happy to look after your every need and ensure that you have a relaxing getaway.
Staying near the airport? We have you covered!
There’s plenty to do in Auckland’s Southern and Eastern suburbs this summer! Visit Paradice in Botany Downs where you can practice your ice-skating skills or even challenge your friends to a few games of laser tag. Their Blackout Friday Nights event is on now too! Entry costs only $16 including skate hire and you can cruise around the rink from 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm!
Visit the Howick Markets on a Saturday morning from 8:00 am – 12:30 pm to experience some great hand-crafted shopping, delicious food vendors, and fresh seasonal produce! While you’re in town, take the kids to the Snakes & Ladders playground along the Rotary Walkway. They’ll have a great time climbing the stairs and sliding down the slides as they play.
Lastly, you can’t stay in South Auckland without spending a day at the enchanting Auckland theme park – Rainbow’s End! They’ve just opened their brand-new theme for the Log Flume – The Enchanted Forest: Unicorn Meadow. Their 20 rides are certain to delight and thrill the family whether you’re hanging out in the Kidz Kingdom or chasing adrenaline on one of the Big 5 thrill rides.
If you’re stopping over by the Auckland Airport, base yourself from one of our three airport stays: Airport Kiwi Motel, Airport Gateway Hotel, or Airport Kiwi Hotel? We know how to make quality accommodation affordable – our rooms start from just $75pp. We hope to see you soon!