Te Manaaki is spreading the Christmas cheer
Te Manaaki - the spectacular new Christmas tree – is installed in Te Komititanga in lower Queen Street. Standing 18.4 metres high and decorated with over 10,000 individual led lights, 4,000 vibrant Pōhutukawa flowers and over 200 giant baubles, Te Manaaki marks the start of a new festive tradition for Auckland in quintessentially Kiwi style.
A gift for the city through a partnership between ourselves and Precinct Properties, with support from Auckland Council via the city centre targeted rate, Te Manaaki brings festive magic for all to enjoy transforming Te Komititanga (adjacent to Commercial Bay and the Waitematā Station (Britomart)) into a vibrant festive hub, drawing people into the city centre and creates a welcoming focal point for celebration and connection.
Thousands of people enjoyed the inaugural tree-lighting event on Saturday, 23 November, which featured free family-friendly entertainment from Anika Moa, Tami Neilson and the Auckland Youth Choir. Their performances of classic carols added to the festive energy.
A selection of media coverage about Te Manaaki to date:
Auckland Christmas tree Te Manaaki lit up for first time in downtown city centre - New Zealand Herald, 24 November.
Bad news for grinches – the Christmas tree in Auckland city is wonderful - The Spinoff, 26 November.
Kea Kids News: Million-dollar Christmas tree lights up the smiles - Kea Kids News, 28 November.
Check out the full Christmas programme in the heart of the city here.