The Croatian Cultural Society of New Zealand in Auckland comes alive with festive performances and dancing. Reporter Hjalmar visits to showcase this unique Croatian-style Christmas celebration.
Auckland New News & Updates
Stay informed about the latest events and activities in Auckland New
Wednesday, December 17, 2025
Waatea News explores the significance of the PΕhutukawa, New Zealand's iconic Christmas tree, for Aotearoa. This article delves into its cultural meaning and connection to the holiday season.
Cast members from Shortland Street are back in New Zealand for a summer Christmas and share their holiday traditions. They mention attending Christmas lights displays in Auckland.
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
RNZ Concert is celebrating Christmas and the New Year in New Zealand with special programming. Tune in to hear the Auckland Philharmonia's Christmas performance.
PAK'nSAVE Wairau was already planning for Christmas several months ago, indicating the early preparations for the busy holiday season. This highlights the extensive lead-up to New Zealand's busiest Christmas period.
As the holiday season approaches, couriers are working overtime to deliver gifts across New Zealand. NZ Post advises on how to protect yourself against parcel theft during this busy Christmas period.
A Kiwi sex coach explains why libido can dip during the stressful Christmas period in New Zealand. The article discusses the psychological impact of holiday stress on sexual desire.
The Loom #9 event features the Curators Christmas Band along with Langabeer, Johnson, and Parussini. This performance is scheduled to take place at Audio Foundation in Auckland, New Zealand.
With nearly two-thirds of New Zealand households owning pets, many are planning to welcome a new furry friend this Christmas. The article mentions a 'Pet Bus' service operating in Auckland.
The 3G shutdown in New Zealand, initially planned to be completed by Christmas, will now extend slightly into 2026. Telecommunications experts are providing final guidance before the service fully ceases.
Monday, December 15, 2025
This article revisits the wildest end-of-year shockers from Shortland Street, including a dramatic Christmas-themed cliffhanger. It highlights a memorable moment where a new mother dropped dead on Christmas.
This article provides a guide on where to find the glint and glitter of Christmas lights across Auckland. It's part of a broader piece about enjoying the holidays in New Zealand.
A Christmas favourite production is coming to Centrestage Theatre, featuring the work of Bray, a significant figure in New Zealand youth theatre. He founded the Tim Bray Theatre Company, known for high-quality children's productions.
The national Christmas campaign for Starship has launched, urging New Zealanders to donate to help bring children home sooner. The appeal aims to 'fill the empty chair' this Christmas.
A sailor from Gisborne is returning home for Christmas after spending months at sea with the Royal New Zealand Navy. The ship HMNZS Aotearoa was welcomed back to Devonport Naval Base in Auckland.
Auckland Transport has released its public transport holiday timetable, noting that ferry services will have no service on Christmas Day. This information is part of their holiday schedule updates.
Air New Zealand cabin crew will not be striking in the week leading up to Christmas after reaching an agreement in principle with the airline. This deal affects over 400 staff.
A couple is hoping for a Christmas miracle to be reunited with their son, whom they were forced to leave behind in New Zealand. The situation involves complex travel and immigration circumstances.
Sunday, December 14, 2025
Kiwi Christmas Books is accepting brand-new book donations for children. You can send or drop off books at their Mt Eden, Auckland location.
A winning Strike ticket was sold to an Auckland player via MyLotto. Lotto NZ's Christmas promotion is launching, offering an extra $6 million in prizes.
Saturday, December 13, 2025
Classical music and festive spirit are abundant in Auckland's weekend events. Christmas lights are now on display throughout the city, offering a festive atmosphere.
A sailor from WhakatΔne is returning home in time for Christmas after an eight-month deployment at sea. They served aboard the Royal New Zealand Navy ship HMNZS Aotearoa.
A sailor from Nelson is returning home for Christmas following an eight-month deployment. Their 13-year career in the Royal New Zealand Navy has been a significant part of their life.
Friday, December 12, 2025
Suzy Cato is set to star in 'Christmas with Suzy' concerts at the Bruce Mason Centre this Sunday. Bookings are required through aucklandphil.nz, and the Pumphouse will also be performing.
The NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is pausing state highway works across Northland to help with the Christmas and New Year break. This decision allows for smoother travel during the holiday period.
Several Auckland restaurants will be open on Christmas Day 2025, offering lunch, dinner, and buffet options. This provides an alternative for those who wish to avoid cooking and the associated stress.
Thursday, December 11, 2025
Watercare has released five family-friendly gift ideas to promote a waterwise Christmas. These suggestions aim to help Auckland residents enjoy the holiday season while conserving water.
Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Kiwi comedian Tom Sainsbury discusses his new play, 'A Christmas Crisis,' featuring local celebrities and comedians. The show promises a festive and humorous take on holiday themes.
The official Christmas tree in Auckland City is named 'Te Manaaki,' a word that translates to respect, care, and hospitality. This highlights the cultural significance of holiday traditions in the city.
New data from food insights platform Appetise.io reveals that TikTok is significantly influencing what New Zealanders will be eating this Christmas. This trend is shaping festive dining choices across the country.
Auckland Airport is supporting 12 charities through its 'Small Change Creating Big Impact' initiative this Christmas season. This program aims to make a significant difference through collective contributions.
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
The AktiveZone Christmas Showcase will be held at New Lynn War Memorial Square on Saturday, December 20, 2025. This event is part of Auckland's festive holiday offerings.
There is a question of whether South Auckland's Εtara will outshine the famous Franklin Road Christmas lights this year. This suggests a potential for impressive light displays in the Εtara area.
Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park is set to light up the Auckland Domain with a star-studded and talent-packed show. This annual event has been proudly supporting New Zealand communities since 1994.
Monday, December 8, 2025
Metalbirds are being purchased as gifts to remember loved ones this Christmas. These gifts will contribute to protecting New Zealand's native birds.
Many companies are moving away from lavish office Christmas parties towards daytime, family-friendly events with a charitable component. The Port of Auckland recently hosted such an event.
A NICU nurse named Arishma Ram is bringing Christmas magic to Starship Hospital for New Zealand's tiniest patients and their parents. She has been involved in memorable occasions, including transporting a baby from Auckland.
Santa Paws is coming to town, partnering with New Zealand Petfoods for a pre-Christmas charity top-up. Local pet-based charities can be nominated to receive support.
Sunday, December 7, 2025
Shake & Stir Theatre Co's production of 'A Christmas Carol' is making its New Zealand debut at the Civic Theatre. The show is noted for its richly realized presentation.
Saturday, December 6, 2025
This weekend in Auckland, you can explore various Christmas lights and festive markets. Get into the holiday spirit with these seasonal activities happening around the city.
This article introduces a family tradition called 'Christmas Pixies' that people can try this festive season. It evokes the magic of Christmas morning for New Zealand families.
Friday, December 5, 2025
It's mince pie season in Auckland, with a guide highlighting some of the best offerings from local bakeries. This subjective guide celebrates the festive treat available throughout the city.
Kiwi comedians Chris Parker and Tom Sainsbury are sharing their festive family moments. Their show, Dynamotion's A Christmas Crisis, opens at Auckland's Q Theatre on December 10th.
Residents on Auckland's Franklin Road have decorated their properties with Christmas lights for over 30 years. This annual display is a popular festive attraction.
Auckland's giant Christmas tree, located at Te Komititanga, has had its lights switched on. The tree is a central feature of the city's festive celebrations.
Experience Polish Christmas Eve traditions at the Polish Heritage Trust on Sunday, December 14th. This event is part of the East Auckland Art Kete program.
Thursday, December 4, 2025
Auckland's Franklin Road is once again showcasing its impressive Christmas light display. Residents are encouraged to share photos of their own festive decorations.
The Christmas season has officially begun in East Auckland with Santa's upcoming landing. This event marks the start of festive celebrations in the area.
Auckland's large Christmas tree has been illuminated, drawing crowds to Te Komititanga. The lighting ceremony marked a significant festive moment for the city.
Auckland's iconic Franklin Road Christmas lights have been switched on, serving as a festive gift to the community. The lights are a hallmark of the city's holiday season.
Aucklanders are being advised to rent vans early due to soaring summer demand, which includes numerous Christmas parades and school events. This seasonal rush is expected to cause holiday chaos.
Wednesday, December 3, 2025
Charles Dickens' classic tale of "A Christmas Carol" is coming to the Civic Theatre in Auckland. This legendary story celebrates the triumph of goodness and charity over miserliness.
Auckland's 18.5-meter Christmas tree at Commercial Bay and Britomart is adorned with 10,000 LED lights. The article discusses the costs associated with public Christmas tree displays.
Towns and cities across New Zealand are preparing for Christmas with decorations going up. The article provides a list of Santa Parades happening throughout the country.
A mayor, described as a 'Grinch,' may be instrumental in saving Taranaki's Winter Festival. The article touches on the broader context of Christmas and holiday events in New Zealand.
Auckland Live's production of 'A Christmas Carol' is mentioned in the context of a team structure announcement. This theatrical event brings a classic holiday story to the stage.
The article offers five ways for New Zealanders to reduce environmental impact this Christmas. It highlights the typical Christmas morning scene in New Zealand and suggests eco-friendly alternatives.
Auckland's 18.5-meter Christmas tree, featuring 10,000 LEDs, is a prominent display. This article discusses the financial aspects of public Christmas tree installations.
Tuesday, December 2, 2025
SkyCity is preparing its team of 40 elves for the upcoming Christmas season. The article delves into the training process required to become one of Santa's helpers.
A giant Christmas tree has been lit up in Tamaki Makaurau, bringing Christmas magic to the city. The article discusses who had the honor of flipping the switch.
Monday, December 1, 2025
An Auckland butchery has unveiled a "Christmas sausage" featuring a meat-within-meat design. This unique creation is being hailed as a New Zealand first for the holiday season.
The Simpsons are lending their support to New Zealand's largest-ever greyhound rehoming initiative. This campaign, created for Greyhounds as Pets, aims to find homes for dogs during the Christmas season.
Boating New Zealand has released its Christmas gift ideas for the upcoming holiday season. These items can be ordered by phone or purchased in-store at Haines Hunter HQ in Ellerslie, Auckland.
Families attending the Auckland Farmers Santa Parade faced the threat of torrential rain and flooding due to severe thunderstorms. MetService issued warnings for heavy rain across parts of the country.
An image showcases New Zealand's native pohutukawa tree adorned with a Santa Christmas decoration. This visual highlights a festive theme connected to the holiday season.
A Swiss tourist will be spending Christmas in New Zealand as he awaits sentencing for causing a fatal crash. He has been in the country without income since the incident.
Auckland Live is presenting "Christmas In Aotea Square," featuring the disco magic of LOU'ANA's 'Night Creature'. Full program details are available on the aucklandlive.co.nz website.
An announcement regarding powers to move homeless people from city centres is expected before Christmas. Auckland's Minister and Mayor have developed an action plan for this issue.
New Zealand's first Pet Refuge shelter is launching a Christmas appeal, fearing a spike in domestic violence during the holiday period. The shelter provides temporary care for animals whose owners are escaping abuse.
Sunday, November 30, 2025
Over 35,000 Christmas boxes were packed this year, with Auckland alone seeing nearly 20,000 boxes prepared. This initiative aims to ensure no one goes hungry during the Christmas season.
Auckland's Santa Parade is expected to draw a crowd of 150,000 people. While a Christmas celebration, some note a historical disconnect from the religious aspect of Christmas.
The summer outlook suggests more rain is likely in the run-up to Christmas. Auckland and Northland residents may need to prepare for indoor activities.
Straight to the Heart offers a unique Christmas experience in Auckland with a free festive taxi service. This service allows Kiwis to hail a ride for a special Christmas treat.
Saturday, November 29, 2025
Santa Claus is returning to shopping centres across New Zealand, with families in Auckland lining up for festive photos. This marks the start of the holiday season for many.
Auckland's Christmas season is highlighted by the iconic Farmers Santa Parade this weekend. This major event is just one of many festive activities happening in the city.
A new nativity float has been introduced for the Auckland Santa Parade, emphasizing the Christmas celebration's religious origins. This addition aims to include Christ in the festivities.
Friday, November 28, 2025
Auckland is hosting a Crafty Christmas event with an upcycled city edition. This event encourages creative reuse and festive spirit.
The Auckland Philharmonia is bringing festive cheer with a selection of sparkling Christmas concerts. These performances are designed for everyone to enjoy the holiday season.
The Auckland City Mission is running its Auckland Angels appeal this Christmas, collecting donations in council offices. This initiative aims to support those in need during the holiday season.
A new nativity float will be featured in the upcoming Auckland Santa Parade. This addition highlights the Christmas theme of the birth of Jesus Christ.
Thursday, November 27, 2025
In Auckland, Christmas Boxes will be packed by almost 1500 volunteers on November 28-29. This initiative aims to bring kindness to the community during the festive season.
A very Celtic Christmas show will feature Auckland champion Irish dancer Keely O'Grady. She will perform alongside 15 top musicians in this festive production.
Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Black Friday sales and Christmas events are expected to cause traffic and parking issues near Sylvia Park and Newmarket. This highlights the increased activity around the festive season in Auckland.
New Zealand's largest free Christmas event, Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park, is returning this weekend. The event will take place in North Hagley Park.
The festive season is beginning in Auckland with Black Friday sales and upcoming events like the Farmers Santa Parade and Christmas in the Park. These events are expected to draw crowds and impact local areas.
Toi Iho is promoting the idea of giving meaningful, authentic gifts this Christmas by encouraging New Zealanders to choose MΔori-made art. This initiative aims to support local artisans and add cultural significance to holiday gifting.
Tuesday, November 25, 2025
Auckland is set to feature five giant neon columns creating a magical festive pathway along Queen Street, a first for New Zealand. This display is part of a larger holiday celebration including Sparkle Hour, markets, music, circus, and a stage production of 'A Christmas Carol'.
The Auckland Christmas tree will be lit up tonight, officially marking the start of the holiday season. This event signifies the beginning of festive celebrations in the city.
Monday, November 24, 2025
Enchanted Christmas in Auckland's Newmarket features 180 decorated trees and over 150,000 lights. A mother expressed concerns about photo usage impacting her family's participation in Christmas experiences.
A planned strike by Air New Zealand cabin crew could affect up to 15,000 passengers. The potential disruption is occurring just ahead of the Christmas travel period.
Sunday, November 23, 2025
Auckland's streets will come alive with festive color during a grand parade featuring floats, performers, and marching bands. The city will also host a Christmas market offering holiday-themed goods and festive cheer.
Award-winning Auckland-based comedian Alan McElroy will be performing a Christmas-themed comedy show. He is known for his performances and won Best MC at the NZ Comedy Awards.
Auckland's Christmas tree has been lit up, marking the start of the festive season. This event is part of the city's holiday celebrations.
Saturday, November 22, 2025
Auckland's Christmas tree will be lit up to officially kick off the holiday season. The 18.4-meter-high tree is located at Te Komititanga.
Join Mrs Claus for a special Christmas Sailing event at the New Zealand Maritime Museum. This festive occasion will take place on Saturday, December 13th.
The Auckland Christmas tree will be lit up tonight to officially commence the holiday season. The impressive tree stands at 18.4 metres high and is located at Te Komititanga.
Discover what's happening in Auckland this weekend, featuring a variety of Christmas shows, art exhibits, and Santa parades. Enjoy a festive lineup of seasonal activities.
Sabreen, an indie-pop artist from Auckland, will be performing as part of the Auckland Live Christmas in Aotea Square 2025. Her unique style draws inspiration from artists like Hozier and Conan Gray.
Friday, November 21, 2025
MOHI is part of the Auckland Live Christmas in Aotea Square 2025 event. More details can be found on the Auckland Live website.
Arthur Christmas is featured as part of the Auckland Live Christmas in Aotea Square event. Further information is available on the Auckland Live website.
Thursday, November 20, 2025
The Mahurangi Christmas Appeal is underway, encouraging community support as the festive season approaches. This initiative aims to help families in the Auckland region during Christmas.
Wednesday, November 19, 2025
An Auckland mother of three expressed sadness about her children potentially not receiving presents this Christmas due to financial struggles. Many families are expected to go without food and gifts this holiday season.
An Auckland mother of three expressed sadness about her children potentially not receiving presents this Christmas due to financial struggles. Many families are expected to go without food and gifts this holiday season.
Monday, November 17, 2025
Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park will feature exciting new local stars in its upcoming Auckland and Christchurch shows. This event has been proudly supported by Coca-Cola NZ in New Zealand communities since 1994.
Many pet owners are facing a scramble for animal care as New Zealanders plan their Christmas and New Year travel. This surge in demand highlights a growing challenge for holiday pet arrangements.
You have a chance to win tickets to see Lorde perform in Auckland, NZ this February at Spark Arena. The article also mentions a 'Christmas at the Races' event.